26 Best Places to Visit in March in the USA

Are you planning a United States spring trip this year? Then you’ll have to know about the best places to visit in March in the USA.

This article covers all of the top spots for a March vacation in the USA, all across the country. 

Whether you’re interested in heading to the mountains to explore a national park or you’d rather head to the big city and witness a cherry festival, this post has got you covered.

Traveling during the month of March has so many benefits; it’s a less busy time to travel than in the summer, it’s right before most spring breaks for kids in school, and the weather is incredible. 

26 Best Destinations in the United States to Visit in March

Read on to start planning your trip to the best places to visit in the USA in March!

1. San Francisco, California

San Francisco is easily one of the best places to visit in March in the US! With an average temperature of 56°F, it is a bit on the cooler side, but it does reach the 60s during the day thanks to the California sun.

In the month of March, sports really start to pick up in San Francisco. In fact, supporting one of the local sports teams like the San Francisco Giants or the Oakland Athletics by attending a game is one of the best things to do in spring!

By attending one of these games, you’ll get a glimpse into the local sports culture.

Of course, San Francisco also has a huge St. Patrick’s Day celebration with a parade that usually goes right down Market Street!

The exact date of the parade fluctuates depending on the year. Still, SF is by far one of the best places to visit in California, let alone the US!

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Click here for accommodation in San Francisco!

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Located in North Carolina, Asheville is an excellent spot to go if you’re wondering about the best places to visit in March in the USA. 

With average temperatures of around 58°F in March, Asheville can possibly have snow during this time of year, but the sun is usually out.

The best thing to do in Asheville in spring is to attend the Biltmore Blossoms Celebration which takes place right at the Biltmore. It usually starts in mid-march and runs all the way through May.

If you’re interested in something different, consider taking part in the Annual Shamrock Run 5K with proceeds going towards a local charity. This event normally takes place on St. Patrick’s Day and is run by a local school.

Where to Stay in Asheville

Click here for accommodation in Asheville!

3. Key West, Florida

Avoid the college spring break crowds in Florida by heading to Key West instead of Orlando! This is definitely one of the warmer best places to visit in March in the US, with temperatures usually being around 78°F each day! 

Needless to say it’s the perfect weather to hit those beautiful beaches in Key West!

Like other US destinations in March, Key West does hold some great events this month.

One of the more unique ones is the Secret Gardens of the Florida Keys, which usually takes place on the weekend in March. It provides visitors with a great garden tour!

More fun things to do in Key West in March include stopping at the Hemingway Home and Museum, the Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, and also the Southernmost Point of the Continental US.

Where to Stay in Key West

Click here for accommodation in Key West!

Read next: All-Time Best Places to Visit in USA

4. Texas Hill Country, Texas

Another slightly warmer destination for a March vacation in the USA is the Texas Hill Country. Since it’s located in the south, the average temperature is about 62°F each day, which the highs reach around 73°F.

No trip to the Texas Hill Country in March is complete without exploring the bluebonnets in Fredericksburg. They start to bloom around this time of year, especially at the Lyndon B Johnson Historical Park.

Other great things to do in Texas include exploring the Natural Bridge Caverns, having BBQ at local favorites like Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, and exploring the outdoors.

Families will enjoy endless hours of fun at one of the largest theme parks in America, the Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio.

Other places you might want to visit are New Braunfels (a lovely German town), Canyon Lake, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Johnson City, and Austin, of course! These are some of the best places to visit in Texas!

Where to Stay in Texas Hill Country

Click here for accommodation in Texas Hill Country!

5. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina’s largest city, is one of the best places to visit in March in the USA because there are so many fun spring activities there. 

Plus, the March temperature is about 59°F, perfect weather for a hoodie and shorts. This is a big difference from their hot summer weather!

An absolute must-do March activity in Charleston is attending the St. Patrick’s Day parade, which goes right through the city.

Be sure to stop by a local Irish pub after like Tommy Condon’s or Mac’s Place to grab a drink and celebrate the day.

To experience some of the beautiful flowers in Charleston, be sure to stop by the Magnolia Plantation and check out the gardens, which just start to bloom in March. You could also attend the Charleston Wine and Food Festival!

Where to Stay in Charleston

Click here for accommodation in Charleston!

6. San Diego, California

While most people will head to Los Angeles, San Diego is one of the best places to visit in March in the USA, especially if you want to be near the water. 

The average daily temperature is 61°F, with highs reaching around 67°F, which is drastic from San Diego’s summer weather.

San Diego is more of a popular summer destination, so you’ll find that the city won’t be as overrun with tourists during this time of year, which is basically the shoulder season. This means lower accommodation rates and sometimes even cheaper flights!

Some places worth checking out are the beaches in La Jolla, Balboa Park, and some historic sites, like the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala.

Where to Stay in San Diego

Click here for accommodation in San Diego!

7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is another of the best places to visit in March in the USA.

The weather can still be quite chilly this time of year, with the daily average being about 53°F, and there can also still be snow in March. However, don’t let that deter you!

Similar to San Francisco, March is when the sports scene really starts to come alive in Philadelphia. Consider seeing a game and support local favorites like the Philadelphia Flyers or the Philadelphia 76ers!

You could also see the St. Patrick’s Day Parade or participate in a fun local tradition, Restaurant Week!

During Philadelphia’s Restaurant Week, which usually takes place at the beginning of March, you can eat at many local restaurants with 3-course meals for a lower cost.

Where to Stay in Philadelphia

Click here for accommodation in Philadelphia!

8. Washington DC

As one of the most popular spring destinations in the country, Washington DC is one of the best places to visit in March in the US.

March temperatures in DC are pretty chilly at an average daily temperature of 46°F. Nothing a warm jacket can’t fix!

Unlike some other places on this list, March is one of the more popular times to visit DC, so you can expect crowds. However, it’s worth it!

The best thing to do in Washington DC in March is attend the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

It usually starts at the end of the month and includes tons of fun street festivals, local vendors, and even fireworks!

Where to Stay in Washington DC

Click here for accommodation in Washington DC!

9. Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia

Providence Canyon, located in Georgia, is the perfect place to go if you’re planning a spring vacation in the USA.

The average temperature is about 56°F, but the cold weather is perfect compared to the weather that the state sees during its busy season, summer.

Filled with amazing canyon views, beautiful hikes, and fun outdoor activities, there are so many great things to do in Providence Canyon. 

The most popular thing to do is a hike, especially on trails like the Providence Canyon Perimeter Loop Trail or the Providence Canyon Backcountry Trail Loop.

If you’re interested in doing something even more unique, consider going stargazing in the canyon. There’s often a stargazing astronomy night where you can do it with others!

Where to Stay near Providence Canyon

Click here for accommodation near Providence Canyon!

10. Rocky Mountain National Park; Colorado

A short day trip from Denver, Colorado, is Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the best places to visit in March in the USA. 

This is one of the colder places to visit, with the average temperature daily around 35°F, because it’s located at a higher elevation in the mountains.

March is the perfect time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park because you don’t need a permit to enter the park during this time. 

However, you’ll still want to get there bright and early to ensure you can get a parking spot at one of the trailheads.

In spring, be sure to do some of the top hikes in the park, including Emerald Lake, Alberta Falls, and Bear Lake. If you’re up for a real challenge and you’re experienced, try one of Colorado’s 14ers, Long’s Peak.

The park is a popular area for rock climbing, but other activities in the park include road biking in designated biking lanes, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Where to Stay in Rocky Mountain National Park

Click here for accommodation in Rocky Mountain National Park!

11. Big Island, Hawaii

Escape and get some island sun by heading to the Big Island of Hawaii! With average temperatures being a warm 75°F, you really can’t go wrong by visiting Big Island, one of the best places to visit in March in the USA.

The Big Island is home to so many fun events in the springtime, which is why it’s the perfect time to visit!

One of the most popular events is the Kona Brewers Festival which has been going on for 20 years and counting. This festival is filled with booze and food!

Of course, if food and booze aren’t your things, you can also explore many of the other Big Island attractions.

These include swimming in Hawaiian beaches, scuba diving, exploring the Captain Cook Memorial, and visiting the Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park.

Where to Stay in Big Island

Click here for accommodation in Big Island!

12. Sedona, Arizona

Head to the desert oasis of Sedona, Arizona, one of the best places to visit in March in the US! The average daily temperature is about 55°F which is low compared to the sweltering summer heat that Arizona receives.

If you love being active, consider attending the unique Sedona Yoga Festival, a fun festival that’s all about mingling with other yoga enthusiasts. Plus, you can, of course, attend yoga classes during the event.

Other options include the Food Truck Festival, Sedona Stumble 5K (or 10k if you’re up for it), and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade!

Where to Stay in Sedona

Click here for accommodation in Sedona!

13. Palm Springs, California

At a warm 67°F as an average temperature, Palm Springs is one of the best places to visit in March in the USA! Not only is the weather better during March in Palm Springs, but there are also fewer tourists.

Some of the best things to do in Palm Springs during this time of year are in the outdoors.

You can hike the Cove Oasis Trail (which is more of a walk with a view), picnic in Freedom Park, or support local vendors at the Coachella Valley Certified Farmers Markets.

You could also attend the Palm Springs International Dance Festival, though the date changes each year.

Where to Stay in Palm Springs

Click here for accommodation in Palm Springs!

14. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is easily one of the warmest destinations on this list, but you can miss those hot summer temperatures in March!

The average temperature in spring is only about 65°F, so you can enjoy Atlanta without the sweltering heat.

As you might expect, the best thing to do in Atlanta in March is to attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade! The parade features local bagpipers, floats, and more. Plus, there are usually tons of fun local vendors selling Irish food too!

If you’d rather skip out on that festivity, another must-attend spring event is the Beer, Bourbon, & BBQ Festival. The three pair perfectly together, but make sure you attend with an empty stomach!

Where to Stay in Atlanta

Click here for accommodation in Atlanta!

15. Yellowstone National Park; Wyoming, Montana, Idaho

With an average daily temperature of just 25°F, Yellowstone National Park probably isn’t a place that crossed your mind as a March destination.

However, because of the lower temperature, the crowds will be nowhere near as large as they are in the summer.

Because of its location, Yellowstone National Park can still be covered in snow during March, so be prepared! If there is snow, that allows for many different types of adventures, such as snowshoeing throughout the park.

The main attraction that’s open during this month in Yellowstone National Park is Mammoth Hot Springs because some of the roads throughout the park may be closed due to snow.

Make sure you check online before your visit but enjoy the small crowds!

Where to Stay in Yellowstone

Click here for accommodation in Yellowstone!

16. Miami, Florida

If Key West isn’t your style, you’re in luck; Miami is another of the best places to visit in the USA in March.

The average temperature during this month in Florida overall is pretty warm, with Miami daily temperatures being about 72°F.

One of the most popular attractions in Miami in March is the Winter Party Festival! This annual March event is all about partying, dancing, and having fun. The National LGBTQ Task Force puts on the event.

Another great festival to attend is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Miami doesn’t host one, but most locals head over to Fort Lauderdale to attend theirs and participate in the Shamrock Run!

Still, while in the city, don’t forget to visit some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the US, like South Beach in Miami Beach.

Where to Stay in Miami

Click here for accommodation in Miami!

17. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

In March, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is the perfect place to take a vacation to!

The average temperature is around 64°F, so it’s a bit cooler, which is perfect weather for relaxing by the beach without sweating.

To chase the flowers in Myrtle Beach, be sure to stop by Brookgreen Gardens.

The gardens start to bloom during March, making it the best time of year to visit! Plus, your ticket is good for seven days after purchase.

Other fun things to do in Myrtle Beach in March include enjoying the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, taking place in the Myrtle Beach Marathon, and having fun on one of the many golf courses.

Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach

Click here for accommodation in Myrtle Beach!

18. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans, Louisiana, is one of the best places to visit in March in the US! Each day, the average temperature is about 64°F, and the crowds have simmered down after the many festivals in February.

Even though New Orleans has a huge French influence, they do celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the Irish Channel Parade!

This is one of the top things to do in the city, and it goes right through the Lower Garden District.

Super Sunday is also held in March, which is another way to experience Mardi Gras if you missed it in February. This event is also referred to as Mardi Gras Indian Super Sunday and has an Indian influence.

Whatever you, be sure to watch a live Jazz performance at Bourbon Street. It’s an incredible experience!

Where to Stay in New Orleans

Click here for accommodation in New Orleans!

19. Carlsbad Ranch, California

Located in Carlsbad, California, Carlsbad Ranch is an excellent place to go if you want to vacation in March.

During this time of year, the temperature is usually around 55°F each day, which is cool for California!

All of the flower fields bloom here once a year, and you guessed it, it happens in the springtime.

So, the best time to visit Carlsbad Ranch is in March, right after everything has started blooming.

During March, there are many different events held at Carlsbad Ranch, including wine tastings, afternoon teas, and more. Learn more on their events page.

Experiencing the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch is an absolute must. You’ll be able to walk through more than 50 acres of gorgeous flowers. Besides, you can also stop at the Julian Daffodil Show!

Where to Stay near Carlsbad Ranch

Click here for accommodation near Carlsbad Ranch!

20. Garvan Woodland Gardens, Arkansas

For some great gardens in March, consider visiting the Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs, Arkansas!

This is a popular destination that covers more than 200 acres of land and will genuinely take your breath away in March.

The temperature during this time is usually around 51°F each day, which is perfect spring weather to enjoy the beauty of the Garvan Woodland Gardens.

The best thing to experience in Garvan Woodland Gardens in March is the Tulip Festival.

During this time, you can witness all of the tulips blooming and learn more about the beloved flower! Plus, the flowers provide an excellent backdrop for photos.

Where to Stay near Garvan Woodland Gardens

Click here for accommodation near Garvan Woodland Gardens!

21. Ennis, Texas

Ennis in Texas is one of the best places to visit in March in the USA! The daily temperature is about 57°F, making it one of the best times of year to visit Texas. It’s the perfect time of year to avoid the Texas heat!

When visiting Ennis in March, you absolutely must partake in the Bluebonnet Trails!

The trails cover around 40 miles of land and usually open sometime during the spring. The trails normally officially open in April, but by visiting in March, you can avoid the crowds and witness the very first bloom.

Along the driving trails, you can witness the beautiful flowers for yourself up close. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Where to Stay in Ennis

Click here for accommodation in Ennis!

22. Mobile, Alabama

With an average daily temperature of 60°F, the best time to visit Mobile, Alabama, is in March.

This is yet another southern destination that’s normally pretty warm, but visiting in spring lets you beat the heat and the crowds.

The best thing to do in Mobile in March is to see the Azalea Traill. This is one of the top attractions in all of the south and even features the Azalea Trail Court, a group of young girls who dress up and help to greet those who visit the city.

Other fun things to do in Mobile during this time include exploring the USS Alabama, Mobile Museum of Art, and the lesser-known Mobile Carnival Museum.

Where to Stay in Mobile

Click here for accommodation in Mobile!

23. Fairbanks, Alaska

If you’re up for a cool March trip, head up north to Fairbanks, Alaska! The average temperature is only 13°F, though, so make sure you dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared.

March is arguably the best time of year to visit Fairbanks because the days are longer, and the sun can often be out despite the snow. You do get the best of both worlds, especially if you can brave the cold.

There are so many fun things to do in Fairbanks during this time of year, including looking for the northern lights, having a drink at an ice bar, and attending ice carving competitions.

Where to Stay in Fairbanks

Click here for accommodation in Fairbanks!

24. Arches National Park; Utah

Beat the crowds by visiting Arches National Park in March! The average temperature may only be around 50°F, but that’s the perfect weather for hiking to many famous arches throughout the park.

Many locals agree that March is the best time to explore Arches because this isn’t the most popular time of year for tourists to visit!

Read next: Utah National Parks Road Trip

However, you can still expect some crowds (it is a popular park after all), and you’ll want to make a reservation for 2022’s new ticketed entry system.

Some of the best hikes in Arches Naational Park include Delicate Arch, Devil’s Garden, the Windows, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch. You can also stargaze in the park since it’s open 24 hours!

Where to Stay near Arches

Click here for accommodation near Arches!

25. Antelope Valley, California

One of the lesser-known California vacation spots in March is Antelope Valley.

Even though it’s located only an hour or so drive from Los Angeles in southern California, the spring temperature is usually around the 55°F mark, which is pretty cool for the state!

Visitors to Antelope Valley in March absolutely can’t miss out on the poppy season.

The exact dates of this change from year to year depending on the weather, but usually somewhat overlap with March!

The poppies are usually fully bloomed and ready to explore by late March. Try to get to the valley earlier in the morning to catch the sunrise against the flowers; it’s beautiful.

Where to Stay near Antelope Valley

Click here for accommodation near Antelope Valley!

26. Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Last but not least is Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts!

Because it’s in New England, the weather is generally a lot colder this time of year, and you may witness some snow during your visit. The daily temperature is generally around 38°F.

Even though the weather can be kind of bleak during this time of year, Nantucket is generally only frequented by locals in March.

So, you can experience the area when it’s a lot less busy, which will only elevate your experience.

Some of the best things to do here include relaxing by the beach, exploring the local shops, and mingling with locals in the off-season. Don’t forget to try some clam chowder from a seafood restaurant!

Where to Stay in Nantucket 

Click here for accommodation in Nantucket!

Wrapping Up in the Best March Vacations in the US

Now you know all of the best places to visit in March in the USA. Truthfully, no matter where you decide to go on a vacation this spring, you’ll have a blast as long as you plan ahead and make your reservations sooner rather than later. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start booking your March trip now, and have a great vacation!

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our blog posts below:

• Best Places to Visit in January
• Best Places to Visit in February
• Best Places to Visit in April
• Best Places to Visit in May
• Best Places to Visit in June
• Best Places to Visit in November
• Best Places to Visit in December
• Best Places to Visit During Christmas

Did you enjoy this article about the best places in the USA to visit in March? Then share it on your social media!