March is one of the most dynamic travel months in the United States — a transitional period between winter and spring that offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking beach sunshine, cultural festivals, blooming landscapes, wildlife encounters, or outdoor adventures, March delivers unforgettable experiences across the country.
From the cherry blossoms of Washington, D.C. to the sunny beaches of Southern California, the historic charm of Savannah, Georgia, and the desert adventures in Arizona and Utah, March provides ideal weather and fewer crowds than peak summer. Seasonal events like music festivals, St. Patrick’s Day parades, and early spring wildlife watching add extra excitement. In this guide, we explore the best destinations across the U.S. to visit in March, highlighting what makes each place special and offering practical tips for travelers.
1. Washington, D.C. — Spring Blossoms & Culture
One of the most iconic experiences in March is witnessing cherry blossoms start to bloom in the nation’s capital. The National Cherry Blossom Festival typically begins in late March, celebrating the arrival of spring with floral displays, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities.
Best for: Culture lovers, first-time visitors, families
Weather: Cool, crisp days ideal for sightseeing
Top Attractions:
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Tidal Basin cherry blossoms for iconic photos
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Smithsonian Museums for educational exploration
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National monuments and memorials for history enthusiasts
Why go: March in D.C. is like stepping into a seasonal postcard — blossoms, warmer temperatures, and cultural events create a magical atmosphere for visitors.
2. Southern California — Sunny Beaches & Outdoor Fun
Southern California beaches, including San Diego and surrounding areas, are especially inviting in March. Mild, sunny weather with average temperatures in the 60s–70s °F makes it perfect for outdoor activities.
Best for: Beach lovers, families, nature lovers
Weather: Warm days, cool evenings
Top Highlights:
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SeaWorld and San Diego Zoo for family fun
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La Jolla and Coronado Beaches for scenic views
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Carlsbad Ranch Flower Fields during bloom season
Why go: With sunshine, beautiful beaches, and outdoor attractions, Southern California offers a stress-free March getaway for couples, friends, and families.
3. Savannah & Georgia Coast — Blooming Charm & Culture
Savannah, Georgia, shines in March with mild temperatures and blooming greenery. The city hosts one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country, complete with parades, concerts, and festivities.
Best for: History buffs, festival lovers, romantics
Weather: Pleasant spring warmth
Top Attractions:
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Forsyth Park for picturesque walks
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St. Patrick’s Day Parade for lively festivities
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Bonaventure Cemetery for historic charm
Why go: Historic architecture combined with vibrant celebrations makes Savannah a uniquely beautiful March destination.
4. Austin, Texas — Festivals & Creativity at SXSW
Austin comes alive in March with the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival — a celebration of music, film, technology, and innovation. Thousands of creators gather for concerts, film screenings, tech talks, and citywide events.
Best for: Music lovers, creatives, festival-goers
Weather: Warm and comfortable
Top Attractions:
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SXSW concerts and film events
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Live music venues across the city
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Local food trucks and barbecue spots
Why go: Austin offers an exciting blend of culture, creativity, and entertainment in March.
5. Florida — Beaches, Cities & Spring Vibes
Florida offers sunny weather and a variety of experiences, from city sightseeing to beach relaxation. Destinations like Miami and Key West combine warm days with lively nightlife and cultural diversity.
Best for: Beach trips, city explorers, families
Weather: Warm and sunny
Top Highlights:
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South Beach in Miami for sun and surf
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Key West for tropical charm
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Clearwater and St. Petersburg for family-friendly beaches
Why go: Florida’s mild March climate makes it perfect for beach lovers and explorers before summer crowds arrive.
6. Scottsdale & Arizona Desert — Outdoor Adventures
Arizona’s desert regions, including Scottsdale, offer ideal weather in March — warm days and cool nights. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic landscapes, and baseball’s Spring Training.
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, sports fans
Weather: Warm days, cool evenings
Top Attractions:
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Desert hikes with scenic views
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Spring Training baseball games
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Art walks and spa experiences
Why go: Outdoor lovers and sports fans can enjoy mild weather and community events without the extreme heat of summer.
7. Utah National Parks — Red Rocks & Epic Scenery
March is a great time to explore Utah’s iconic national parks, including Arches and Canyonlands. Comfortable temperatures and blooming desert flora create stunning landscapes.
Best for: Nature lovers, hikers, photographers
Weather: Cool to warm, perfect for outdoor exploration
Top Experiences:
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Arches National Park’s iconic red rock formations
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Canyonlands’ expansive desert vistas
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Scenic drives and overlooks ideal for photography
Why go: Mild spring weather and epic natural beauty make Utah parks a must-visit in March.
8. Chicago & Boston — Festive Urban Adventures
For culture and festivals, Chicago and Boston are excellent March destinations. Both cities host major St. Patrick’s Day events, with Chicago famously dyeing its river green and Boston celebrating Irish heritage citywide.
Best for: Urban explorers, culture enthusiasts
Weather: Cool to chilly, but manageable for outdoor activities
Top Attractions:
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Chicago River green dye for St. Patrick’s festivities
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Boston’s parades and Irish cultural events
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Museums, historic sites, and vibrant food scenes
Why go: These cities combine urban excitement with rich cultural traditions in March.
9. Hawaii — Tropical Island Escape
Hawaii is a classic warm-weather destination in March. Islands like Maui and Kauai enjoy sunshine, ocean adventures, and scenic hikes. March is also prime whale-watching season.
Best for: Beach lovers, tropical escapes, wildlife watchers
Weather: Warm and sunny
Top Experiences:
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Whale watching for majestic humpback sightings
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Beach activities including snorkeling and surfing
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Scenic drives, like the Road to Hana
Why go: Warm tropical weather without summer crowds makes Hawaii perfect for beach days and adventure.
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Conclusion
March is a uniquely magical month to travel in the United States. It offers a blend of springtime beauty, cultural events, and mild weather suitable for a wide range of travel styles — from sun-soaked beaches in Florida and Southern California to the lively festivals of Austin and Savannah, the cherry blossoms of Washington, D.C., and the outdoor adventures of Arizona and Utah. Whether you enjoy urban culture, celebrating with locals, or hiking through breathtaking landscapes, March provides memorable experiences with fewer crowds than the summer months
Seasonal highlights, including flower blooms, music and film festivals, and wildlife sightings, make every trip special. Travelers also benefit from lower costs and shorter lines at popular attractions. With so many diverse destinations, March in the USA guarantees beauty, adventure, and lasting memories, making it one of the best months to explore the country.
FAQs
1. What are the best places to visit in the USA in March?
Top destinations include Washington, D.C., Southern California, Savannah, Austin, Florida, Arizona deserts, Utah national parks, Chicago, Boston, and Hawaii.
2. Is March a good month for outdoor activities in the USA?
Yes. Mild temperatures in many regions make it ideal for hiking, beach trips, and exploring cities without extreme summer heat.
3. Where can I see cherry blossoms in the USA in March?
Washington, D.C., is the top spot for cherry blossoms, with peak bloom typically in late March. Some southern cities, like Macon, Georgia, bloom earlier.
4. What festivals happen in March in the USA?
Notable events include SXSW in Austin, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in cities like Chicago and Boston, and cherry blossom festivals in D.C.
5. Is March a good time to travel on a budget?
Yes. March is shoulder season for many destinations, offering fewer crowds, lower accommodation rates, and better travel deals before peak spring break and summer.