15 Best Places to Visit in March in the US You’ll Absolutely Love
March is such a great month to get out and explore the US. Spring is just starting to show up, with blooming gardens, colorful wildflowers, and perfect weather for being outdoors.
Whether you’re into scenic hikes, cultural festivals, or just soaking up the sun, there’s something for everyone this time of year.
Need ideas? Here are the 15 best places to visit in the US in March to inspire your next trip!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- 1. Washington D.C
- 2. Big Bend National Park, Texas
- 3. Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada
- 4. Austin, Texas
- 5. Arches National Park, Utah
- 7. San Diego, California
- 8. New Orleans, Louisiana
- 9. Palm Springs, California
- 10. Joshua Tree National Park, California
- 11. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- 12. Kauai, Hawaii
- 13. Atlanta, Georgia
- 14. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
- 15. Charleston, South Carolina
1. Washington D.C
Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital on the East Coast, is breathtaking in March as the cherry blossoms start blooming.
The Tidal Basin transforms into a stunning display of pink and white, creating an iconic backdrop for exploring the city’s landmarks.
While the weather can still be crisp, it’s a refreshing time to stroll through the National Mall and enjoy the National Cherry Blossom Festival events.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 4 to 14°C (40-57°F), with chilly mornings and mild afternoons.
🎡 Best experience: Walk the Tidal Basin loop to enjoy the cherry blossoms and stunning views of the Jefferson Memorial.
💡 Tip: Dress in layers and bring a warm jacket, especially for early morning visits to the cherry blossoms.
2. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend National Park, located in southwest Texas, is breathtaking in March when the desert blooms with wildflowers and the weather is cool and pleasant.
The park’s vast trails and stunning views of the Chisos Mountains and Rio Grande are perfect for hiking and exploring without the harsh summer heat.
March is also a prime time for birdwatching, as migratory species pass through the region.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 10 to 25°C (50-77°F), with cool mornings and warm afternoons.
🎡 Best experience: Hike the Lost Mine Trail for panoramic views of the Chisos Mountains.
💡 Tip: Book campsites or accommodations early, as March is one of the most popular months to visit.
3. Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada
Death Valley National Park, straddling the California-Nevada border about two hours from Las Vegas, is an all-time best place to travel. In March, the park is absolutely stunning with a mild weather and wildflowers blooming across the desert.
The park’s unique landscapes, from Badwater Basin’s salt flats to the vibrant Artist’s Palette, are comfortably explored without the extreme heat.
March offers clear skies, perfect for hiking and stargazing, while colorful desert blooms create a rare and beautiful scene.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 10 to 27°C (50-81°F), with sunny days and cool nights.
🎡 Best experience: Visit Zabriskie Point at sunrise to watch the golden hues illuminate the badlands.
💡 Tip: Bring plenty of water, even in cooler weather, as the dry desert air can be dehydrating.
4. Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas, located in central Texas about 1.5 hours from San Antonio, is buzzing with energy in March thanks to the South by Southwest (SXSW) Festival.
This world-famous event brings together music, film, and tech, turning the city into a vibrant hub of creativity.
The mild spring weather is ideal for outdoor activities, like exploring Zilker Park or enjoying live music at open-air venues. March’s unique mix of events and weather makes Austin unforgettable.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 11 to 24°C (52-75°F), with sunny, pleasant days.
🎡 Best experience: Take a dip in Barton Springs Pool and enjoy the natural spring water.
💡 Tip: Book accommodations well in advance, as hotels fill up quickly during SXSW.
5. Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park, located in eastern Utah, is stunning in March when cooler weather makes exploring its iconic red rock formations comfortable.
The park’s trails, like the hike to Delicate Arch, are less crowded than in summer, allowing you to soak in the unique landscapes at your own pace.
March also brings clear skies, perfect for photography and stargazing in this International Dark Sky Park.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 1 to 17°C (34-63°F), with cool mornings and sunny afternoons.
🎡 Best experience: Explore the Windows Section to see multiple arches close together and enjoy short, easy hikes. For something original, consider a 4×4 Driving Tour in the park.
💡 Tip: Arrive early to secure parking at popular trailheads, as March can still get busy during midday.
7. San Diego, California
San Diego, California, located on the southern coast of the U.S., is ideal in March with its mild weather and vibrant activities.
It’s the peak of whale-watching season, and you can see gray whales migrating along the coast. Balboa Park blooms with spring flowers, adding even more beauty to its iconic gardens.
The pleasant temperatures make outdoor adventures like hiking Torrey Pines or relaxing on the beach enjoyable all day long.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 12 to 20°C (54-68°F), with sunny skies and cool breezes.
🎡 Best experience: Take a whale-watching cruise for a chance to see migrating gray whales up close.
💡 Tip: Visit Balboa Park on weekdays in March to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy the gardens peacefully.
8. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, Louisiana, located in the southeastern U.S. along the Mississippi River, is full of life in March as the city celebrates St. Patrick’s Day and other cultural events.
The weather is mild, making it perfect for strolling through the French Quarter, taking a swamp cruise, enjoying outdoor dining, and taking in live music.
March also offers a more relaxed vibe compared to the busier Mardi Gras season, letting you experience the city’s charm at a comfortable pace.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 12 to 21°C (54-70°F), with sunny days and refreshing evenings.
🎡 Best experience: Enjoy a St. Patrick’s Day parade, where music, floats, and festive vibes fill the streets.
💡 Tip: Take a swamp tour in March—the cooler weather keeps bugs away, and the alligators are more active as they warm up in the sun.
9. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs, California, located in the Coachella Valley about two hours from Los Angeles, is a dream in March with its warm, sunny weather and colorful desert blooms.
The pleasant temperatures are perfect for lounging by the pool, hiking trails like Indian Canyons, or exploring mid-century modern architecture.
March also brings events like the Desert X art installations, which turn the surrounding area into an open-air museum. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 13 to 27°C (55-81°F), with sunny days and cool evenings.
🎡 Best experience: Hike in the Indian Canyons to see stunning waterfalls and desert landscapes.
💡 Tip: Pack sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat—March sun in the desert can feel intense, even if it’s not too hot.
10. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree National Park, located in southern California about 40 minutes from Palm Springs, is at its best in March with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
The cooler weather makes it perfect for hiking iconic trails like Hidden Valley or Barker Dam while marveling at the unique Joshua trees and desert rock formations.
With spring in full swing, the landscape comes alive, offering incredible photo opportunities and peaceful exploration.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 10 to 25°C (50-77°F), with sunny skies and comfortable breezes.
🎡 Best experience: Climb the massive boulders at Hidden Valley for epic views of the desert.
💡 Tip: Arrive early in the day to find parking at popular trailheads and enjoy quieter trails.
11. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, located in the northeastern U.S., is perfect to visit in March as spring begins to brighten its historic streets.
The city’s iconic landmarks, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, are less crowded than in summer. March also marks the start of the Cherry Blossom Festival, adding bursts of color to Fairmount Park.
The cool, fresh air makes walking tours and outdoor markets comfortable and enjoyable.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 2 to 12°C (36-54°F), with cool mornings and mild afternoons.
🎡 Best experience: Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art and take a run up the famous “Rocky Steps” for a fun and iconic photo.
💡 Tip: Take advantage of March’s cooler weather to explore the city’s outdoor murals on a walking tour, as Philadelphia is known for its incredible street art.
12. Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai, Hawaii, the northernmost island of the Hawaiian chain, is one of the world’s most romantic places and a true paradise in March with lush green landscapes and perfect weather for outdoor adventures.
The rainy season begins to taper off, filling waterfalls like Wailua Falls to their fullest. It’s also peak whale-watching season, making the beaches and boat tours unforgettable.
March offers the perfect mix of vibrant nature, wildlife, and fewer crowds compared to the summer months.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 20 to 26°C (68-79°F), with warm days and refreshing breezes.
🎡 Best experience: Take an air tour of Nā Pali Coast to take in breathtaking cliffs and ocean views.
💡 Tip: Pack a light rain jacket—occasional showers are common in March but usually brief.
13. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta, Georgia, in the southeastern U.S., is a vibrant destination in March when spring flowers begin to bloom and outdoor events come alive.
The Atlanta Dogwood Festival and colorful gardens at the Atlanta Botanical Garden showcase the city’s beauty. The mild weather is perfect for exploring historic landmarks like Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthplace or enjoying Piedmont Park.
March also brings fewer crowds compared to the summer months, making it easier to enjoy the city.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 9 to 19°C (48-66°F), with comfortable days and cool evenings.
🎡 Best experience: Stroll through the Atlanta Botanical Garden to see the first blooms of the season.
💡 Tip: Visit Piedmont Park on a weekday for a quieter experience and great skyline views.
14. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Saguaro National Park, located in southern Arizona about 30 minutes from Tucson, is at its best in March when the desert comes alive with blooming wildflowers.
The iconic saguaro cacti stand tall against clear blue skies, and the mild weather is ideal for exploring trails like Valley View Overlook.
March is perfect for enjoying the vibrant desert scenery without the intense summer heat, offering an unforgettable outdoor experience.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 10 to 25°C (50-77°F), with warm days and cool evenings.
🎡 Best experience: Hike the Signal Hill Trail to see ancient petroglyphs and stunning desert views.
💡 Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for cooler temperatures and incredible golden hour light over the cacti.
15. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, located on the southeastern coast of the U.S., is amazing in March when azaleas and magnolias bloom in the city’s historic gardens.
The mild weather is perfect for exploring cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and iconic sites like Rainbow Row.
With lighter crowds, you can fully take in the city’s charm and beauty at your own pace. It’s the perfect season to enjoy Charleston’s vibrant spring atmosphere.
🌤️ Weather: March temperatures range from 9 to 20°C (48-68°F), with sunny days and cool evenings.
🎡 Best experience: Wander through Magnolia Plantation and Gardens to see vibrant spring blooms and historic scenery.
💡 Tip: Take a carriage tour in the morning before the streets get busier, and the weather heats up.
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