18 Best Places to Visit in USA in March: Sun, Ski & St Paddy’s Day

Chicago Skylines building along green river of Chicago River on St. Patrick's day festival in Chicago Downtown

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Planning a vacation in March and don’t know where to start? 

A springtime vacation can go either way; you can find a way to make winter last a little bit longer if you’re a snow bunny who prefers being bundled up, or you can escape to somewhere with year-round sunshine.

In this guide, we’ve shared options for every type of vacation you could need; whether you want to ski in the cold, see springtime in bloom, or escape somewhere a little warmer, there is a perfect spot for you on this list of best places to visit in USA in March.

There’s also a whole heap of fun festivals and celebrations going on the US in March. St Paddy’s Day anyone?

Looking for a pink explosion? Keep reading to find out where to see cherry blossoms in March.

Let’s dive in and find your dream vacation; it could be anywhere from Alaska to Arizona and there’s plenty to do in between.

If you are also considering where to travel in the months surrounding March, we have guides on the US in February and vacation ideas for April too.

If you are dead set on a national park road trip, check out the best ones to visit in March.

Top Spots to Visit in USA in March

1. Fairbanks, Alaska for The Northern Lights  

Fairbanks, Alaska, is the place to visit in March in the USA if you desperately need to evade Seasonal Affectiveness Disorder.

From the beginning of March to the end, you’ll get anywhere between 10 to 13 hours of daylight – even better than Miami, which only gets up to 12 and a half hours a day. 

You get the best of both worlds if you love winter activities but need a break from the long dark nights.

Even though Alaska is cold, seeing the Northern Lights will be well worth the extra layer or two once you see them in the sky.

The Aurora Borealis season is from August 21-April 21, making March a perfect time to come and be utterly bedazzled by the sights.

You can even use the Aurora Tracker to see in real-time visibility.

Things to do in Fairbanks in March

  • The World Ice Art Championships – Carvers from all over the world come to show dozens of meticulously crafted ice sculptures at the World Ice Art Championships, one of the largest ice art competitions and exhibitions in the world. (Mid-February – end of March)
  • Denali Winterfest is a community-based festival that includes dog sledding, a 5K race, snowshoeing, hiking, park ranger programs, and more. The Denali Winterfest kicks off with a potluck and closes with a chilli feed and cakewalk. (End of February – early March)
  • Open North American Championship – The Open North American Championship is the world’s oldest sled dog race takes place over three days with teams from all over the world. The teams compete in two 20.9-mile and one 28.6 mile race, and spectators can watch from multiple viewpoints along the Alaska Dog Mushers Association’s trails. (Mid-March)
  • International Curling Bonspiel – Curling enthusiasts have come from far and wide to participate in the International Curling Bonspiel for nearly a century. The themed event encourages participants to dress up to keep up the party atmosphere with DJs, dancing, and live music over the three days (Late March/ Early April)
  • Chena Hot Springs – If you want to see the Northern Lights while staying warm and toasty, Chena Hot Springs is the place for you. You can also visit their Aurora Ice Museum, take a snowmobile tour, go ice fishing, and more. 
  • Article Circle Tour- If seeing the Northern Lights is on the top of your list, take the hassle out and book an Article Circle tour to see the Northern Lights here.
Dark night with Aurora Borealis over Lake Chena in Alaska

2. Newport, Rhode Island for New England Charm

Do you dream of wrapping your warm cardigan tighter around you while sipping a cup of coffee and looking wistfully out into a wintery sea?

Head to Newport for this March, and that could be your reality!

A little winter weather doesn’t knock that charm out of this New England town, and despite not being able to lay out on the beach in your swimsuit, there is so much else that you can, so you won’t even mind not getting a tan. 

Newport, in particular, is a vibrant town that can trace its roots to Colonial America but came to life in the last 19th Century Gilded Age with mansions constructed by America’s wealthiest families like the Vanderbilts, the Astors, and the Morgans.

Today, most people visit for the abundant sailing community and escape to the seaside resort as well as the rich US history.

Since March is low season, you can take advantage of the cheaper accommodation prices in the area.

Things to do in Newport in March

  • Cliff Walk – Be sure to bundle up before you head down to 3.5 mile Cliff Walk where you’ll get the spray of water from the crashing waves on your face with picturesque sea views on one side on gorgeous mansions on the other.
  • Hot Chocolate Bar at The Chanler – A blustery March day needs a trip to The Chanler’s Hot Chocolate Bar, located on Cliff Walk; these artisanal creations are the perfect way to warm up after a walk.
  • Newport Vineyards – Newport Vineyards is the vineyard for everyone, offering craft beer and farm-to-table dining along with their wines.
  • Mansions of Newport – If you’ve ever wanted to walk through opulence without the hefty price tag attached, visit one of the many mansions in Newport and roam the gardens, explore the exhibits, and take a tour to learn all about them.
  • Ocean Drive – A 10-mile strip of coastline that will take you through the best the town has to offer and give you so many great spots to get a snap for the ‘gram.
  • International Tennis Hall of Fame – Any tennis fan will love a visit to the interactive International Tennis Hall of Fame with nearly 2,000 items on display to tell the story of Tennis history.
  • Newport Art Museum  The Newport Art Museum was founded based on uniting people from different backgrounds through the power of art and still holds true to that mission today with its exhibits and permanent collections that reflect a variety of diverse artists.
  • Scenic Trolley Tour – Enjoy a Scenic Trolley Tour that takes you through historic downtown, The Newport Waterfront, Marble House, and more, get your tickets here.

You might also like our guides of road-tripping through New England or New England beach towns.

Sunset over Claiborne pell bridge Newport Bridge in Rhode Island

3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for St Paddy’s Day & Foodie Activities 

Philadelphia has got an action-packed month – there is so much to do that you’ll never struggle for choice.

Because it is truly the birthplace of the US as we know it, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a city with less history in it, and they genuinely know how to make the most of it all month long.

Feminists will rejoice; Philly loves to celebrate Women’s History Month in style with various events to celebrate both historical and modern women and their achievements. 

If you believe that we’re all a little Irish on Saint Patrick’s, you’ll love the many organized bar crawls that will not only help you see some of the best spots in Philly but also help you celebrate in style.

If you want fewer pints and more Irish culture, Philadelphia has that too, with many restaurants serving traditional Irish meals and with live Irish music.

Things to do in in Philadelphia in March

  • The Justice Bell – Styled after the Liberty Bell, The Justice Bell was created by a woman to be the unofficial mascot of the 1915 state referendum on women’s suffrage. It has since become a national symbol for women’s voting rights; see it at the Washington Memorial Chapel in Valley Forge National Historical Park.
  • The Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Parade – The second oldest in the country, The Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Parade has been running since 1771 and is world-famous for a reason; this is truly something you have to see to believe. (Mid-March)
  • East Passyunk Restaurant Week – Well known for its top food choices, East Passyunk Restaurant Week is the place to be if you want to enjoy some of Philly’s tastiest foods from perfectly curated prix fixe menus. (Early March)
  • Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest – Get the last moments of Winter Wonderland on the Delaware River Waterfront at the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest and go ice skating, rent a cozy cabin, get food and drinks, and more. (Early March)
  • Orchid Extravaganza at Longwood Gardens – Escape the cold to the indoor oasis of the Conservatory and see the majestic orchids in their full and colorful bloom at Longwood Gardens, famed for its majestic year-round exhibits. (All March)
  • Spirit of Philadelphia Cruise – Once daylight savings ends, take advantage of the later sunset with a dinner cruise and live music and dancing; get your tickets here.
Independence Hall at night in Philadelphia with bronze statue

4. New York, New York for Parades and Last Minute Ice Skating

Is there ever a bad time to visit New York? While you maybe have visited during the holiday season, don’t ignore NYC in the spring, because it is one the best places to visit in March in the USA.

March is a funny time of year for New York, the city is finally shaking off the worst of the winter, and the flowers are daring to bud again, but the weather can be very temperamental.

New York is known to see at least one snowstorm in March – but a week before that, you might be wearing sandals.

If you are struggling with what to pack, just think of layers with study warm footwear (you can always grab a pair of sandals if you absolutely have to!) 

The winter is harsh in New York, so when March rolls around, New Yorkers are excited to venture out again; plus, since this is the off-season, you’ll find fewer crowds and wait times, so you’ll be able to see and do more. 

Things to do in NYC in March

  • St Patrick’s Day Parade – This is the largest and oldest St Patrick’s Parade in the world, it is an amazing spectacle to behold, and the entire city turns Irish for the day to celebrate together down Fifth Avenue. (Mid-March)
  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral – If you would prefer to stick to a more religiously oriented method of celebration, get a Fastpass for St Patrick’s Cathedral Official Audio Tour here.
  • Macy’s Herald Square Flower Show – Not only is Macy’s the biggest and one of the oldest department stores in the world, but they also host their famous flower show every spring where the ground floor is truly turned into an oasis with an original theme each year. (Late March)
  • Bryant Park Winter Village – Although it’s marketed as a Christmas activity, Bryant Park Winter Village doesn’t close until just before spring meaning you can still ice skate and sip hot chocolate in NYC’s only free ice skating rink. (Early March)
  • The Orchid Show – Head to the New York Botanical Garden in The Bronx for the “Spotlight on Orchids” in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a great way to stay warm as you see the blooms of spring come to life. (All March)
  • Knicks/Liberty Game – The basketball season is in full swing, so if you’re into sports, this would be a great time to catch a game at Madison Square Garden, try to plan ahead though, last-minute tickets might be pricey.

5. Chicago, Illinois for Green Rivers & the Shamrock Shuffle

The Windy City might not be at the top of your list of places to go to in blustery March, but there is so much happening that you’ll regret not making the trip. 

With so much Irish history, you can be sure that this city knows how to celebrate with bar crawls, live music, and Irish flags on every corner.

Even if you aren’t here for the party scene, you’ll still find so many ways to enjoy yourself on your stay here.

Chicago also features in our guide to the US in July for tours and December for tree lighting.

Things to do in Chicago in March

  • The Chicago River – For over half a century, the Chicago River has been dyed emerald green each year at 9 am on the Saturday before St Patrick’s Day, with spectators lining up early in the morning to watch the magic before it disappears by the end of the day. (Mid March)
  • Chicago Polar Plunge – Chicago Polar Plunge is a charity event benefiting Special Olympics Chicago where people donate money to plunge into the freezing cold water at North Avenue Beach. Plungers then dry off and enjoy the post-plunge party with music, food, and drinks. (Early March)
  • Shamrock Shuffle – The Shamrock Shuffle has been a part of Chicago culture for 40 years, with runners clad in green aged eight and up from all over coming to participate in the run through the heart of Chicago. (Mid March)
  • Chicago Restaurant Week – Enjoy the best of Chicago’s eats at Chicago Restaurant Week with prix fixe menus that offer the best of the best for brunch, lunch, and dinner. (Mid March). If you visit cities for food festivals and also like music festivals, check out Chicago in our guide to the best places to visit in the US in September.
  • Blackhawks Game – March is right in the middle of hockey season, making it a great time to catch a home game and watch Chicago’s National Hockey League Team, the Blackhawks, at United Center. 
  • Mob and Crime Bus Tour – On this 90-minute luxury bus tour, you’ll get to learn the inside scoop of Chicago’s murky past include Al Capone and the Chicago Mob, from a knowledgable tour guide. Get your tickets here. 
Chicago Skylines building along green river of Chicago River on St. Patrick's day festival in Chicago Downtown

6. Breckenridge, Colorado for Awesome Skiing & Mardi Gras (!)

If you thought you could only ski during the harshest winter months, think again!

Colorado’s vast terrain means that many places have best place to ski in March in the US, Breckenridge included, where you get longer daylight hours, softer snow, and bright blue skies, and not in the harsher winter months.

Whether you want to ski for a week straight or just enjoy some of Colorado’s finest, this is a great place to visit in March with so many activities to keep you and your whole family busy – check out their events page for more.

Plus, Denver is only an hour and a half away, giving you a whole world of opportunities for day trips to the state’s capital. 

Things to do in Breckenridge in March

  • Mardi Gras: Breckenridge boasts a Mardi Gras party that can rival that of New Orleans, going all out with the masks, boas, beads, music, and more, and depending on when it falls, might get to be a part of your trip in March. (Early March)
  • Breckenridge Main Street: A colorful street full of locally-owned shops, art installations, and epic views, Breckinridge Main Street has lots to offer; the downtown area is a by-product of the 19th century Gold Rush and reflects its history still today, and the Arts District is where creatives and admirers can find things they love to see and do.
  • Gold Runner Coaster – Ride the Gold Runner Coaster 2,500 feet down the mountain – please note that children must be at least three and over 38″ tall to ride.
  • The BrekConnect Gondola – Take a free gondola ride during the daytime and see the scenic view of the mountain from up above as you go between town and Peak 8 Base Area.
  • Frisco Adventure Park: This family-friendly adventure park offers tubing, sleigh rides, sledding, beginner skiing, & even has a Nordic center that offers skate-skiing, classic cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
  • Frisco Main Street: The next-door neighbor of Breckenridge has a quaint Main Street with shopping, bars, cafes, ice cream parlors, and an international dining scene – all only 15 minutes away.
Snow capped mountains in Breckenridge Colorado

7. Charlottesville, Virginia, for Mountains, Wine & History

If you can’t find a place to visit in March that suits everyone’s tastes, there is only one solution: Charlottesville. 

This city offers the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains for nature lovers, several vineyards for wine lovers, and centuries of American history for the history buffs.

There are also so many events, concerts, and festivals that come through Charlottesville year-round, so there isn’t ever a wrong time to visit because there will always be something new to see and do.

It’s also conveniently located only 2 hours south of Washington DC, making it the perfect long weekend escape from city life into the fresh air.

Come for a weekend or a whole month; you’ll still leave wishing you could stay just a bit longer. 

Things to do in Charlottesville in March

  • Ragged Mountain Natural Area – The Ragged Mountain Natural Area is a 980-acre forest with a beautiful lake in the center (boats are allowed, but swimming is not) and seven miles of trail that you can hike and explore (and it is dog friendly!)
  • Michie Tavern – Established in 1784, they still use 18th Century recipes for all dishes and will give you an authentic taste of Colonial America; they also have a pub called 1784 Pub that replicates that feel of an 18th Century pub-going experience. 
  • IX Art park – This art park uses multiple mediums of art from graffiti to installations to inspire creativity in everyone who visits; it also has Virginia’s first immersive experience, The Looking Glass. 
  • Virginia Discovery Museum – This hands-on children’s museum focuses on arts, sciences, humanities, history, and nature for kids aged 0-8, offering programs and exhibits that allow the children to learn through creative play.
  • Charlottesville 10-Miler – Over the past four decades, the Charlottesville 10-Miler has raised tens of thousands of dollars for local Virginian charities. Runners of all ages loop around Charlottesville, including through UVA’s campus, the historic downtown area, and Main Street. (Mid- March)
  • Virginia Festival of the Book – For both readers and writers, the Virginia Festival of the Book aims to elevate all things surrounding literary culture by working with schools to reach thousands of Virginian students, having open submissions for speakers, and making the festival as accessible to all. (Mid March)
  • Ride the Trolley – The free Trolley loops between Downtown Charlottesville, the University of Virginia Corner, and the UVA Grounds; a great way to see so much of the city.
  • University of Virginia – Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University of Virginia is an early American artifact and has a beautiful campus you can visit; be sure to see the Lawn, the Rotunda & the chapel.
  • The Monticello Wine Trail – Over 40 wineries are located within the 25-mile radius of Charlottesville on the Monticello Wine Trail, known as the ‘Birthplace of American Wine’, a perfect way for a wine lover to spend the week.

8. Richmond, Virginia for Food & Drink Experiences

If you are ready to go to one of best places to visit in USA in March and spend your vacation eating and drinking your way through a city, you’ve absolutely got to come to Richmond.

With event after event, you’ll have to deal with some eventual FOMO, knowing you just can’t do it all.

You can enjoy the fresh spring breeze under the cherry blossoms and some long sought-after sunshine to break away from the cold of winter.

Things To Do in Richmond in March

  • Virginia Wine Expo – It doesn’t get much better than the Virginia Wine Expo, a nine-day event featuring wines, spirits, and ciders from the area with delicious food to go along at Main Street Station. (Early March) 
  • Richmond Black Restaurant Experience – A week dedicated to Richmond’s Black culinary industry, dozens of Black-owned eateries participate in the Richmond Black Restaurant Experience and is a chance for locals and visitors to find a new spot they might not have known about before. (Early March)
  • Church Hill Food Tour – Church Hill is Richmond’s oldest neighborhood and has a variety of eateries for all tastebuds. On this tour, you’ll get the best of the five best different restaurants – get tickets here.
  • Church Hill Irish Festival – A classic St. Patrick’s Day celebration, Church Hill Irish Festival is full of traditions, live music, drink, and of course, food. (Mid March)
  • Shamrock the Block – This free event is for all ages and is a favorite local way to celebrate St Patrick’s Day; Shamrock the Block is a great choice for the whole family; it has food, drinks, live music & entertainment for the kids. (Mid March)
  • See the Cherry Blossoms – Some popular spots are Fountain Lake, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, and Windsor Way to see the majestic trees in full bloom. (Mid to Late March)

Check out our free things to do in Richmond, VA for more budget-friendly tips.

9. Charleston, South Carolina for Fashion, Food & Flowers

Charleston in March is a city full of southern charm that will make you feel right at home is a great escape. 

With top-notch dining options, fun for the whole family, centuries of history, and an epicenter of culture all of its own, everyone who visits Charleston leave with immediate plans on when to return.

Whether you want a trip full of fun and events or just some shopping, dining, and relaxing, Charleston has it all for you. 

Things to do in Charleston in March

  • Charleston Fashion Week – Held in Marion Square, Charleston Fashion Week showcases designers from all over America, and aside from seeing the height of the upcoming season’s trends, you can also purchase some of the items that you’ve seen on the catwalk. (Late March)
  • Charleston Wine & Food Festival – The Charleston Wine & Food Festival has everything you could want: workshops, hands-on classes, a variety of events, and signature dinners. (Early March)
  • Festival of Houses and Gardens – If you’ve ever wanted to see inside the private houses and gardens in the city’s historic district, you’ll have to attend the Festival of Houses and Gardens (Mid to late March).
  • King Street Shopping – The King Street Shopping District is a thriving retail hub with art galleries, bars, and restaurants all situated on one of the most famous streets in the country, 300-year-old King Street.
  • King Street Foodie Tour – Get all the best that King Street dining has to offer with a two-and-a-half-hour guided tour that gets you all the classic South Carolina staples with the history behind them; get your ticket here.
Sunset over Charleston Downtown buildings, South Carolina.

10. Savannah, Georgia for  Music, Musicals & Markets

Southern hospitality was invented in Savannah and is served up as regularly as sweet tea and is one of the top warm places to visit in March in the US.

On your visit here, you could do absolutely nothing but sit in a rocking chair on a wrap-around front porch people watching and feel like you’ve had the most exhilarating time of your life; it’s just that kind of place.

However, if you do want a few things to stick on your itinerary, Savannah has a lot to offer; with rich cultural and historical ties, there’s always another layer to this city to discover. 

Things to do in Savannah in March

  • Savannah Stopover Music Festival – The Savannah Stopover Music Festival gets its name because most of the acts are artists en-route to South by Southwest in Texas; it has five stages and a food truck court as well as VIP lounges. (Mid- March)
  • Savannah Music Festival – The largest musical arts event in the state, The Savannah Musical Festival aims to inspire and grow audiences of all ages with its cross-genre programs. (End of March)
  • Forsyth Park – Take a picnic, go for a walk, play in the tennis or basketball courts, enjoy the Fragrant Garden, or people watch by the fountain – you might even get lucky and catch one of the many concerts in Forsyth Park.
  • Savannah City Market – Called the ‘Art & Soul of Savannah,’ Savannah City Market is a hub for shopping, dining, art, and nightlife – plus frequent events, such as St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, are held here too. 
  • Haunted History and Ghosts Walking Tour – See what Savannah is like after hours, and from the other side, get tickets here for a guided Haunted History and Ghosts Walking Tour. 

Savannah also features in our guide to warm US winter destinations.

Forsyth Park trees and fountain in Savannah Georgia

11. New Orleans, Louisiana for Mardis Gras

 If New Orleans during Mardi Gras isn’t on your bucket list, it’s time to make some amendments. 

And even if the party scene isn’t for you, there’s a lot more to this city than just beads and masks.

There are things to do for book lovers, foodies, festival-goers, and more, and if all else fails, who doesn’t want to enjoy some creole in New Orleans?

New Orleans beads on a gate

Things to do in New Orleans in March

  • Mardi Gras – The top event of the year, Mardi Gras is a month long celebration with events kicking off on Kings Day and rolling all the way through to Fat Tuesday which is the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday which sometimes falls in March, or February.
  • Tennessee Williams Literary Festival- In the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter, the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival is a five-day-long event combining writing workshops, theatre events, literary panels, scholars conferences, literary walking tours, music events, culinary and cocktail events. (Late March)
  • The New Orleans Bourbon Festival – Step back in time in this three-day The New Orleans Bourbon Festival featuring seminars, tastings, dinners, burlesque, and more across several New Orleans venues and a 1920s speakeasy. (Mid March)
  • Food History Tour Food History Tour – A 5-stop tour of some of the French Quarter’s best spots, along with stories about the history and culture behind it all, get tickets to the Food History Tour here.
  • BUKU Music + Art Project – A 2-day festival that is a rave and part urban music festival with both underground and well-known performers, BUKU Music + Art Project also showcases local visual artists and various surprise pop-up street performers. (Late March)

Read this guide to find more Unique Things to do in New Orleans.

Mardis Gras also features in our guide to the US in February and New Orleans in fall.

12. Austin, Texas for SXSW

In a state as big as Texas, it’s hard to narrow down where to visit – it’s bigger than some countries! 

While there certainly isn’t a bad place to visit, Austin is a great place to travel to in March and taste some of the local flavors – plus one of the biggest International festivals in the world just so happens to take place there at the same time.

March is home to the 10-day festival South by Southwest where music, film and digital comes takes over the city.

Expect live music, talks, all-night movie theaters and free drink. Find out more in our SXSW guide and where to stay during SX.

Austin skyline from South Congress with man in cowboy hat crossing road

Things to do in Austin in March

  • South by Southwest – One of the best-known multi-media festivals, South by Southwest, brings in people from around the world to see, hear, and participate in the many events. (Mid March)
  • Alamo Drafthouse Cinema – An Austin institution, the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema brings its motto, ‘good food, good beer and good film, all at the same place’ to life every day by taking a special interest in all three.
  • ABC Kite Fest – Fun for the whole family, the ABC Kite Fest is the country’s longest-running kite festival and is truly a sight to behold with all the kites in the sky. (Late March)
  • Craft Beer and Brewery Tour – Spend a half-day touring three different breweries in Downton Austin and enjoying samples and behind-the-scenes info, get your tickets here.
  • The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – See 650 native Texas plants in The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, with plants like Texas bluebonnet and Southern Dewberry in full bloom by March.

You can go on your own foodie tour throughout the city with this guide, 22 Places to Eat in Austin.

Check out all of our Austin guide, things to do, where to take photos, Austin at Christmas and Austin to Big Bend road trip.

13. Lancaster, CA for Fewer Crowds

A lesser-known spot one hour east of LA in the Antelope Valley, there’s a quiet but true beauty to the city of Lancaster. 

This is the sort of place to visit if you want to escape the cold and enjoy the outdoors but don’t want to sacrifice culture and fun.

It’s one of the not-yet-discovered best places to visit in the US in March.

Things to do in Lancaster in March

  • Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve – The Antelope Valley California Poppy Preserve is a state park that comes alive in the springtime with wildflower season from mid-February to late May.
  • The BLVD – The central hub of Downton Lancaster, The BLVD has a cinema, games center, virtual gaming experience, and many different events throughout the week.
  • The Museum of Art & History offers a diverse program of exhibits and collections, the 20,000 square foot Museum of Art & History focuses on learning and creating within Southern California.
  • The Civic Musical Road – Civic Musical Road, located on Avenue G between 30th and 40th Street West, was created by Honda. When a car is driven over the road at the correct speed limit, the grooves sound like the finale of William Tell Overture.
  • Prime Desert Woodland Preserve – The Prime Desert Woodland Preserve has an area of about 120 acres with over three miles of trails for visitors to relax, enjoy, and explore.
  •  LA Highlights Tour – Take a day trip to Los Angeles and see the best that the city has to offer on the LA Highlights Tour, from Hollywood to Santa Monica; get your tickets here. 

14. Tucson, Arizona for the Heat & Hot Air Balloons

If you can’t bear another day of cold, windy, wet weather, then it is time to go to the warm, dry desert.

Tucson provides respite from the harsh winters but is so much more than an escape; it has a magical wonder all of its own that is begging to be explored on one of the best March vacations in United States.

Things to do in Tucson in March

  • Festival of Books – The Festival of Books is a free event that has programs for children, teens, and adults and aims to improve literacy rates for all people in Southern Arizona. (Mid) March
  • Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway – Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is one of the most scenic drives in Arizona, with incredible vistas, ornate rockscapes, thick mountain forests, and deep canyons on display.
  • Pima Air & Space Museum – One of the world’s largest aviation & space museums, Pima Air & Space Museum has about 400 aircrafts from countries all over the world.
  • Saguaro National Park – Best known for being home to the world’s largest cacti, Saguaro National Park also is popular for hiking, camping, scenic drives, and cycling.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride – Start your day by gliding over the Sonoran desert and seeing the perfect 360º views; get your tickets here.
Mountain and cityscape photo of Tucson Arizona at dusk

15. Miami, Florida for Live Music, Film Fest & Golf

Miami is one of the most obvious places to go when on vacation in March and looking for fun in the sun.

This party town doesn’t stop for the winter; with festivals happening nearly every week, you’ll have to schedule in time just to sleep.

So if you need to get to one of best places to travel in March in the USA, book a flight to Miami ASAP.

Miami is also a popular college spring break destination so factor this into your March trip.

Miami Beach Ocean boulevard pastel colored art deco buildings in Florida

Things to do in Miami in March

  • Miami International Film Festival – Focusing on the work of both established and new filmmakers, the Miami International Film Festival has been a staple in the film world for nearly 40 years. (Early March)
  • Calle Ocho Festival – This free event consists of 10 stages of musical acts, international food, dancing, and entertainment for all ages, making Calle Ocho Festival the world’s largest Latin music festival. (Mid- March)
  • Miami Open – Even if you aren’t much of a tennis fan, The Miami Open is unmissable; aside from the world-class athletes competing, the event also has international top-notch food, art, and music. (Late March)
  • Winter Party Festival – The Winter Party Festival is a week-long celebration with music, dancing, and fun to fundraise for the LGBTQ community (Early March)
  • Parasailing in Biscayne Bay – If you want to see Miami from a different way, try parasailing in Biscayne Bay and glide over the world from 400 feet above the water. Get your tickets here.
Boca Chita Lighthouse and Miami Skyline on calm day

16. Kaua’i, Hawaii for Rainforests and the Outdoors

Get tropical on your next vacation in March with a trip to Kaua’i, known as ‘The Garden Isle’ due to all of the tropical rainforests.

Kick back in the sun and sand and take in the majesty of the earth’s natural beauty all around you; no matter where you go or what you do since you’re in one of the best places to visit in March in the USA.

Things to do in Kaua’i in March

  • Koke’e State Park – Koke’s State Park is perfect for exploring; you can picnic in the fields, go camping, hike the rainforest, or just watch the nature all around.
  • Waimea Canyon – Waimea Canyon is nicknamed the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific,’ it is 14 miles long, 1 mile wide, and more than 3,600 feet deep, and at the lookout, you can see panoramic views of crested buttes, rugged crags, and deep valley gorges.
  • Poipu Beach – One of the most popular beaches in the state, Poipu Beach offers visitors golden sand, snorkeling, swimming, surfing, and more. 
  • Kilauea Lighthouse – Amid the Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge stands Kīlauea Lighthouse, over a century old; it has recently been restored and can be toured by visitors.
  • Wailua Falls – For some of the state’s best waterfalls, Wailua Falls is the place to go, partly morning visitors often also see rainbows due to the sun’s position at the time. 
  • Zipline Tour in Poipu – For a little adventure, you can take a zipline tour in Poipu, giving you a chance to see this fantastic beach from the best view; get tickets here.
Kauai Hawaii blue sea, dramatic cliffs

17. Washington DC for Cherry Blossom Festival

While the candy-colored bloom usually takes place in April, The National Cherry Blossom Festival starts in March and runs through to the next month.

The opening ceremony celebrates the 1912 gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, D.C.

Peak bloom is often at the end of March and the best time to visit the cherry blossoms located around the Tidal Basin is 4-5 days after peak bloom.

This springtime tradition is a popular one so expect DC to be busy, be flexible but also plan ahead.

The weather, mostly the wind, can play havoc with the blooms.

Make sure you have lots of other DC activities added to your itinerary so you are not disappointed.

Visit the Smithsonian museums, for free, check out the iconic monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial and shop at CityCenterDC.

Washington DC also features in our best places to visit in the US in May for it Memorial Day parade.

Cherry Blossom by the White House in Washington DC.

18. Macon, Georgia – the Cherry Blossom Capital of the World

Lesser-known Macon invites you to the ‘Pinkest Party on Earth’ this March.

With over 350,000 Yoshino cherry trees blossoming, there’s a lot to experience including a parade and park festivities.

The Yoshino tree is rare to the south but was discovered by realtor, William A. Fickling Sr in 1949.

Years later during a trip to Washington DC, he realised that the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin were the same as the unique tree in his garden.

The following propagation process then put Macon on the springtime map and the cotton candy pink trees have been celebrated every March since 1982 with a festival.

For dates, check out the official Cherry Blossom Festival website.

Macon also features in our guide best places to visit in the US in April.

Things to do in Macon in March

  • Join in the Cherry Blossom Festival events.
  • Tubman Museum – America’s largest museum dedicated to educating people about the art, history and culture of African Americans, the Tubman Museum is a must see.
  • Macon is home to several markets where you can get fresh, seasonal and local produce. Check out Mulberry Street Market, and Wesleyan Market; or head to Smiley’s Flea Market where you can find hidden treasure.
Cherry blossoms line the park in Macon Georgia

19. St Louis, Missouri for St Paddy’s Day and Mardi Gras Events

St. Louis ‘gladly accepts any excuse to throw a party’ so why not join them?

Two of the biggest events in the St Louis calendar for March are the multi-day Mardis Gras festival and St Patrick’s Day.

Things to do in St Louis in March

  • Head to the Soulard neighborhood for 11 days of Mardis Gras parades, beads and music. The festivities start the Saturday prior to Fat Tuesday.
  • Wrap up St Louis Mardis Gras on Fat Tuesday with an evening parade through the streets of downtown St. Louis.
  • Watch the parade, floats and marching bands for St. Louis annual St Paddy’s Day event the Saturday before St Patrick’s Day.
  • Join the five-mile St Patrick’s Day run which starts at Busch Stadium making its way through the streets of downtown.

Final Thoughts

March is the perfect time for an escape from reality into somewhere new.

With so many festivals, concerts, tours, and events no vacation will be long enough to do everything on your list, but that just means that you can plan a return trip to see everything you’ve missed.

Where will you head to this March; will you go somewhere that only requires a swimsuit and flip flops or are you prepared to layer up? Let us know in the comments. 

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