The Ultimate Guide to the Best US Places to Visit in March

As the chill of winter begins to recede, March ushers in a delightful transition across the United States. It's a month of awakening, offering everything from sun-drenched beaches and vibrant city festivals to blossoming landscapes and even prime conditions for late-season skiing. But with such diverse options, where should you truly go to make the most of this unique month?

This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the best US places to visit in March, ensuring your early spring getaway is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you're chasing the sun, seeking cultural immersion, or craving outdoor adventure, we've got your March travel plans covered.

Warm Escapes & Beach Bliss: Chasing the Sun in March

For many, March signals the perfect time to escape lingering cold and embrace warmer climates. The southern states offer idyllic conditions before the intense heat and peak crowds of summer.

Florida Keys, Florida

Imagine turquoise waters, laid-back vibes, and temperatures hovering comfortably in the 70s and 80s. The Florida Keys, particularly Key West, are a prime destination in March. You can catch the tail end of the "snowbird" season while avoiding the larger spring break crowds that typically arrive later in the month. It's ideal for soaking up the beachy atmosphere, enjoying stunning sunsets, and indulging in fresh seafood, as March marks the height of lobster season.

• Activities: Snorkeling, diving, fishing, sunset cruises, exploring Duval Street, visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
• Why March? Pleasant temperatures, less humidity, and excellent conditions for water activities.

Southern California: Desert Oases and Coastal Charm

Southern California presents a diverse range of warm-weather options.

• Palm Springs, California: This desert city boasts average temperatures around 81 degrees in March, making it perfect for those seeking a sunny, dry escape. Explore its mid-century modern architecture, enjoy local golf, or relax by a pool. The BNP Paribas Open, a major tennis tournament, often takes place here in early March, drawing sports enthusiasts.
• San Diego, California: With mild temperatures and sunny skies, San Diego is fantastic for exploring its diverse neighborhoods and attractions. March offers pleasant weather for walking along its beautiful beaches, visiting Balboa Park, or exploring the Gaslamp Quarter. It's also a great spot for surfers.
• Tucson, Arizona: If a desert paradise filled with colorful springtime blooms sounds appealing, Tucson is your spot. March offers ideal weather with highs around 75 degrees, perfect for exploring Saguaro National Park and its unique cacti, which begin to bloom. The Oro Valley Spring Festival of the Arts is also a highlight.

Hawaii: Tropical Paradise Year-Round

For a guaranteed tropical escape, Hawaii remains a top choice. The Big Island and Kauai offer consistently warm temperatures and lush landscapes. March is excellent for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or relaxing on sun-soaked beaches like Kua Bay.

Spring Blooms & City Adventures: Witnessing Nature's Rebirth

March is when many US cities burst into life with vibrant spring blooms, offering a picturesque backdrop for cultural exploration without the peak summer crowds.

Washington D.C.: Cherry Blossom Spectacle

The nation's capital transforms into a breathtaking spectacle in March as thousands of cherry blossoms burst into bloom around the Tidal Basin. The peak bloom usually occurs from late March through early April, celebrated by the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

• Activities: Strolling around the Tidal Basin, visiting iconic monuments and memorials, exploring world-class museums, attending festival events.
• Why March? Witness the iconic cherry blossoms, enjoy cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds compared to later spring.

Charleston, South Carolina: Southern Charm in Bloom

Charleston is truly amazing in March when its historic gardens come alive with blooming azaleas and magnolias. The mild weather is perfect for exploring its cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and iconic sites like Rainbow Row.

• Activities: Historic walking tours, horse-drawn carriage rides, visiting plantations, enjoying the vibrant culinary scene. The Charleston Wine & Food Festival also takes place in early March.
• Why March? Beautiful blooms, pleasant weather, and lighter crowds make for a charming experience.

New Orleans, Louisiana: Festivals and Flavor

New Orleans begins to warm up in March, with humidity not yet set in, making for good weather for exploring. While Mardi Gras can sometimes fall in early March, the city often continues its festive spirit throughout the month.

• Activities: Exploring the French Quarter, enjoying live music, savoring Creole cuisine, attending local festivals like the Abita Springs Busker Festival.
• Why March? Dynamic atmosphere, pleasant temperatures, and a chance to experience the city's unique culture.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: History and Blossoms

Philadelphia offers a blend of history and natural beauty in March. Mild early spring weather is perfect for exploring iconic sites without the summer crowds, and cherry blossoms begin to bloom in Fairmount Park. The city also hosts the lively St. Patrick's Day Parade and the Philadelphia Flower Show.

Last Call for Winter Fun: Spring Skiing in the West

For those who aren't quite ready to say goodbye to winter, March can be one of the best months for skiing and snowboarding, especially in the Western US. Many resorts boast deep snowpacks, longer daylight hours, and milder temperatures, often with fewer crowds and better deals.

Colorado: Abundant Snow and Sunshine

Colorado is a top destination for spring skiing, with resorts like Breckenridge, Vail, Copper Mountain, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin offering excellent conditions. Arapahoe Basin, in particular, is known for its high elevation and north-facing terrain, which helps it retain snow well into the late season.

• Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, enjoying vibrant après-ski scenes.
• Why March? Often the snowiest month for many Colorado resorts, combined with more sunshine.

Utah: "The Greatest Snow on Earth"

Utah's resorts, including Alta, Park City, Snowbird, and Solitude, are renowned for their consistent snowfall. Alta, with over half its terrain north-facing, maintains exceptional snow quality even as temperatures rise.

• Activities: World-class skiing and snowboarding, exploring mountain towns.
• Why March? Deep snowpack and excellent conditions for spring skiing.

Lake Tahoe Area, California: "Miracle March"

The Lake Tahoe region is legendary for its "Miracle March," often receiving significant snowfall that extends the ski season. Resorts like Palisades Tahoe and Heavenly offer prime conditions, with Palisades Tahoe often aiming for one of the longest seasons in the area.

• Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, enjoying stunning lake views, exploring charming lakeside towns.
• Why March? Historically a month for heavy snowfall, leading to deep snowpacks and great spring skiing.

National Parks Awakening: Exploring the Outdoors

March is an ideal time to visit many US National Parks, especially those that become too hot in the summer or are transitioning from winter's deep freeze.

Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada

Known as one of the hottest places on Earth, March offers a sweet spot for visiting Death Valley. Temperatures are moderate (10-27°C or 50-81°F), allowing comfortable exploration of its unique landscapes like Badwater Basin and Artist's Palette. March also brings the exciting possibility of seeing rare wildflower blooms across the desert, especially at lower elevations.

• Activities: Hiking, stargazing (it's a Dark Sky Park), scenic drives.
• Why March? Pleasant temperatures and the potential for a "superbloom" of wildflowers.

Saguaro National Park, Arizona

March is one of the best times to visit Saguaro National Park near Tucson, Arizona. The weather is perfect with highs in the 70s, and the iconic saguaro cacti begin to bloom, creating a vibrant desert landscape.

• Activities: Hiking among giant cacti, exploring the Signal Hill Petroglyphs, enjoying desert flora.
• Why March? Ideal temperatures and the start of the cacti bloom.

Arches National Park & Zion National Park, Utah

While popular, March sees an explosion in visitation for parks like Arches and Zion due to improving weather and spring break. Temperatures are more moderate, making hiking enjoyable before the scorching summer heat.

• Activities: Hiking to iconic formations (Arches), canyoneering, scenic drives.
• Why March? Comfortable hiking temperatures and fewer crowds than peak summer, though still busy.

Unique March Events & Festivals Across the US

Beyond natural beauty, March is packed with exciting cultural events and festivals.

• South by Southwest (SXSW), Austin, Texas: This renowned festival is a convergence of film, interactive media, and music, drawing creatives and enthusiasts from around the globe. It typically runs for about nine days in mid-March.
• St. Patrick's Day Celebrations: Cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago come alive on March 17th with grand parades, live music, and green-themed festivities. Chicago, in particular, has multiple parades and Irish heritage events throughout the month.
• Ultra Music Festival, Miami, Florida: For electronic music lovers, Ultra Music Festival is a premier event held annually at Bayfront Park, showcasing top DJs and producers.

Conclusion

March in the USA is a month of incredible diversity, offering a perfect blend of experiences as the country transitions from winter to spring. From the sun-kissed beaches of Florida and Hawaii to the blooming cherry blossoms of Washington D.C., the vibrant festivals of New Orleans and Austin, or the thrilling late-season skiing in Colorado and Utah, there's a perfect destination for every traveler.

No matter your preference, March provides unique opportunities to explore, relax, and create unforgettable memories. So, where will your March adventure take you?

What are your favorite US destinations to visit in March? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Where is the warmest place in the US to visit in March?

A1: The warmest places in the US in March are typically in Florida (like Key West or Miami), Hawaii (like Kailua-Kona on the Big Island), and parts of Southern California and Arizona (such as Palm Springs or Tucson), with average highs often in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit.

Q2: What are the best places for cherry blossoms in March in the US?

A2: The most famous place for cherry blossoms in the US in March is Washington D.C., particularly around the Tidal Basin. Other cities like Philadelphia, PA, and even parts of California (like Los Angeles) can also see cherry blossoms in March.

Q3: Can you still ski in March in the US?

A3: Yes, March is often considered one of the best months for skiing in the Western US, particularly in high-elevation resorts in states like Colorado, Utah, and California (Lake Tahoe area). Many resorts experience significant snowfall in March, combined with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures.

Q4: Are US National Parks crowded in March?

A4: Many popular US National Parks, especially those in warmer climates or those known for spring blooms (like Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Saguaro, Arches, and Zion), can see increased visitation and become quite busy in March due to pleasant weather and spring break. However, some parks, especially those still experiencing winter conditions at higher elevations (like Rocky Mountain National Park), might have fewer crowds.