Where to Go in March USA: Best Places to Visit for a Spring Break

More than a million people flock to late‑March blooms and events each year, turning quiet streets and parks into colorful, lively scenes.

I built this travel guide from trips I took across the country. I picked destinations that shine in spring because the weather is milder, crowds thin, and value is strong before summer peaks.

I’ll highlight city stops and nature escapes — cherry trees at the Tidal Basin, Texas bluebonnets, poppy fields, northern lights near Fairbanks, and tennis in the desert. I share where I stayed, how many days I needed, and how I planned each trip so you can copy or tweak the itinerary.

Expect timing tips for bloom windows, festival dates, and weather notes so you hit the right place at the right time. I’ll also note what to pack whether you plan urban walks, wildflower hikes, or quiet beach mornings.

Key Takeaways

• I focus on season sweet spots with milder weather and fewer crowds.
• Mix of city and nature stops: flowers, festivals, and clear-sky viewing.
• I include realistic days and practical planning notes for each trip.
• Timing and weather tips help you pick the best time and place.
• Use this guide as a launchpad to map out your days and book smart.

How I pick the best March getaways in the USA

My process for choosing a march getaway starts with looking at when crowds thin and where the season swings warm.

I weigh weather patterns first. I check averages and recent trends so I can expect crisp mornings, mild afternoons, or a lingering hint of winter. That helps me plan which days need layers and which call for sunscreen.

Shoulder-season sweet spot: I aim for times when prices fall and sights have plenty of room. Many sites enter a shoulder season in March — DC’s blossoms and Texas bluebonnets, Indian Wells tennis, and Fairbanks’ late-winter aurora — which affects availability and crowd levels.

Weather, crowds, and timing

I balance festival calendars and spring break peaks. If an event will spike crowds, I either book early or shift my trip by a few days. I build flex into my days so a sudden storm or extra-sunny stretch won’t wreck the plan.

What I pack and how I plan

Layers are my rule: light down, breathable base layers, a rain shell, comfy walking shoes, and sun protection. I also pick a plan B — a museum, a food tour, or a scenic drive — for outdoor days that go sideways.

Washington, D.C. and the Tidal Basin in bloom

I time my DC visit so the city’s soft pink canopy meets the monuments at their most photogenic. The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs from late March through mid-April, and peak bloom often lands in late March or early April.

Timing the festival and peak bloom

I track the forecast for peak bloom; that is the best time for petals against stone memorials. Average March weather sits near 11–16°C, which feels mild for long walks.

“Even if I miss the single-day peak, the festival energy lasts for weeks and there are blossoms across many locations.”

My favorite loop: monuments, water views, and cherry scenes

I start with a Tidal Basin circuit that hugs the water and hits the Jefferson Memorial and the Japanese Lantern for classic shots.

I rent a Capital Bikeshare to link the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Mall. I aim for softer light and fewer people, and I reserve Washington Monument hours when I want panoramic city views.

• I mix museum hours with midday strolls for warmth.
• If the forecast flips, I book a guided monuments tour to save time and steps.
• Hotel rooms fill fast during the season; midweek stays help avoid crowds.

For more planning ideas, I follow local guides and check ways to see the blossoms while I lock in dates.

New Orleans, Louisiana: soulful spring energy after Mardi Gras

I arrive after the parades and find the city’s rhythm softens into long afternoons and live music.

Festive moments to catch in March (and how I avoid peak crowds)

Post-Mardi Gras March brings warm 21–24°C days and cultural highlights like Super Sunday in Central City. I time my trip for that energy without the parade-day crush.best-time-to-visit-amsterdam

• Super Sunday: elaborate suits, drumlines, and an unforgettable street celebration.
• Steamboat Natchez cruises offer skyline views and brass band vibes on the Mississippi.
• Café du Monde beignets pair perfectly with an evening music crawl through the French Quarter.

Where I stay, sip, and listen to live music

I pick a base by mood: French Quarter for classic ambiance, Warehouse District for art, or Marigny for late-night clubs. Rates often drop after Mardi Gras, and a few reserved dinners or shows keep the trip smooth.

“I eat early, save late-night snacks for after the rush, and slot a guided tour or cocktail tour to bridge neighborhoods.”

Texas Hill Country: bluebonnets, wineries, and wide-open skies

The month when bluebonnets peak feels made for scenic drives, short hikes, and long patio meals. I plan around mild temperatures of about 18–24°C, which make hiking and wine tasting comfortable.

Scenic drives and sunrise hikes

Scenic drives, Enchanted Rock, and wildflower hotspots

I time Hill Country for peak wildflowers—bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush—so Willow City Loop becomes a painterly ride. I start the loop counter-clockwise around 9 a.m. for quieter shoulders and better photo light.

Enchanted Rock is my sunrise hike for big views. I bring water and layers because temperatures can swing. After a hike, I build slow tasting days at spots like Becker Vineyards and save a scenic patio for golden-hour sips.

“I start early, pull off safely for photos, and plan weekday rambles near Fredericksburg to avoid heavy crowds.”

• I add small towns—Comfort, Johnson City, Blanco—for quieter main streets.
• If rain arrives, I pivot to tasting rooms, galleries, and a cozy lunch.
• I keep extra time in the schedule so I can linger where the wildflowers are at their best.

For a quick planning primer and route ideas, see this short guide: Texas Hill Country planning tips.

Kauai, Hawaii: waterfalls, whales, and lush island calm

March softens the island’s edges: cliffs go bright green, beaches glow at sunrise, and humpbacks pass offshore.

March here brings brief showers and brilliant sun. Peaks stay lush and waterfalls roar after a quick downpour. Average temps sit around 21–27°C, which feels perfect for hikes and morning swims.best-time-to-visit-south-africa

Best time for beaches, hikes, and cultural festivals

• I watch for whale spouts from cliff walks and keep binoculars handy.
• The Prince Kūhiō Festival and E Kanikapila Kakou run through March, offering music and hula.
• Awaʻawapuhi Trail is my go‑to for a jaw‑dropping lookout; I check conditions after rain.

My go‑to South Shore base for a relaxed March escape

I base myself in Poʻipu where days are often drier and sunrise walks on Poipu Beach feel calm. I build in plenty of slow moments—tropical breakfasts, a poke picnic, and sunset watching.

“When showers pass, I duck into a coffee roastery or try local restaurants near my hotel.”

Fairbanks, Alaska: northern lights and late-winter adventures

I pick Fairbanks for a late‑winter trip when long nights still offer fierce auroras and daytime light makes snow play easy.

March brings a useful overlap: aurora season is still at its peak, yet days lengthen enough for dogsled runs and snowmobiling without the deepest freeze.best-time-to-visit-singapore

Why March is prime for aurora, ice art, and hot springs

I track aurora forecasts and plan wake‑up hours around likely spikes. When clouds block the sky, I hire a guided tour; local drivers know where clear nights hide beyond town lights.

“A day of dogsledding, then a soak at Chena Hot Springs under drifting snow—that combo makes the cold worth it.”

• I time my day with a museum stop or cultural visit to warm up before the long evening chase.
• The World Ice Art Championships offer lit sculptures that glow after dark and draw a lively crowd.
• I pack true winter gear: insulated boots, down layers, hand warmers, and a face covering for sudden temperature swings.

Saguaro National Park and Tucson: desert wildflowers and golden light

Saguaro National Park rewards late-afternoon visits when ridgelines and arms of cactus glow pink-gold. March days are comfortable, with typical temperatures near 16–27°C, so hikes feel easy and long golden hours arrive just right.

Rincon vs. Tucson Mountain districts: how I split my time

I divide days between Rincon Mountain for the Cactus Forest Loop and Tucson Mountain for the Bajada Loop and Valley View Overlook. Short trails stack well; Valley View is a quick climb with huge payoff.best-time-to-visit-turkey

Valley View, Javelina Rocks, and must-do scenic drives

I time scenic drives for late afternoon. I pull off at Javelina Rocks and other viewpoints to watch the desert shift color. To avoid crowds, I start early and tuck a picnic into shaded pullouts, then enjoy coffee in the city during the hottest light.

“A ranger-led tour helped me read washes, spot flora, and learn trail etiquette—well worth the time.”

• I carry extra water, a brimmed hat, and UPF layers for strong spring sun.
• Pair park time with dinner in Tucson; it keeps days balanced and relaxed.

Palm Springs and Indian Wells: retro-glam vibes and pool-perfect weather

When the desert warms but summer hasn’t arrived, Palm Springs and Indian Wells feel like a retro playground. March lines up Fashion Week El Paseo and the BNP Paribas Open (Mar 2–16), so the valley hums with design energy and world-class tennis.

I time my trip for cool mornings, long pool afternoons, and architecture strolls. I drive by Edris House and flag mid-century modern stops for quick photos. Indian Canyons gives me a short trail before I trade hikes for a late swim.

How I pace my days and evenings

• I catch a morning match, then linger at a lazy brunch and a hotel pool.
• I book must-eat tables early and save evenings for buzzy restaurants and patio cocktails.
• Desert pollen can spike—so I pack allergy meds and time outdoor workouts for the clearest air.

Sweet spot: warm pool weather, a lively festival calendar, and manageable crowds before the heat of summer.

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve: rolling orange super blooms

A clear morning at the reserve feels like stepping into a painted landscape; I plan my visit for that light. The peak bloom typically lands late March through early April, and I watch the PoppyCam and recent rains to lock a day.

When I go, what I bring, and the best trails for wildflower views

I target late March as the best time and check the PoppyCam the week before. Average March temperatures run about 18–21°C, but gusty weather is common so I pack layers and a windbreaker.

My go‑to loops are the Poppy Trail South Loop for sweeping color and the Antelope Butte Trail up to Kitanemuk Vista Point for wide views. The Jane S. Pinheiro Interpretive Center offers exhibits and local art that deepen the visit.best-places-to-visit-in-michigan

“I go early to beat parking lines, then return to pullouts later for a new light and fresh angles.”

• I stay on trails to protect fragile blooms and photograph from path edges.
• If the main trailhead is crowded, I use nearby locations and viewpoints for quieter moments.
• This month can be busy; plan a backup walk and arrive early for best light and parking.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: flowers, festivals, and waterfront hangouts

I find Philadelphia at its most playful in spring, when museum mornings lead into waterfront lunches and neighborhood food crawls. Late March often pairs Fairmount Park blooms with the Philadelphia Flower Show, giving the city a bright, festival feel.

Cherry blossoms in Fairmount Park and my favorite spring eats

I aim for late March so the cherry blossom arc in Fairmount Park lines up with Flower Show energy. Average March temps sit near 10–14°C, so I layer up and plan mobile stops between galleries and green space.

My ideal day mixes a museum morning, a riverfront lunch, and an afternoon in Fishtown for craft beer. When East Passyunk Restaurant Week runs, I plan a progressive dinner and sample small plates across a few kitchens.

• I join a walking tour through Old City to link colonial sites with the modern food scene.
• I leave room for a casual hang at Morgan’s Pier for open-air views when the weather cooperates.
• I map neighborhoods by the days I have—Rittenhouse, Old City, and Fishtown each make a focused afternoon.

“Blossoms aren’t guaranteed, but the month almost always delivers color and energy—so I plan flexible stops.”

Golden Isles, Georgia: driftwood beaches and tranquil island days

Salt-sanded shorelines and quiet maritime forests make the Golden Isles a simple retreat for slow days. The chain—Jekyll, St. Simons, Sea Island, and Little St. Simons—offers sunny March weather around 18–24°C. Early spring brings hotel deals and a calm off-season feel with lower crowds.

Bike trails, sea turtles, and low-crowd sunsets

I base myself on Jekyll for quiet island life. I walk Driftwood Beach at low tide, then hop on the 20-mile Jekyll Island Trail System for easy riding.

• I rent bikes for the whole stay so I can glide to beaches, markets, and piers without hunting for parking.
• The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is a must—educational, inspiring, and a way to support local rehab work.
• On St. Simons, I pair lighthouse views with a market stroll and a breezy patio cocktail before dinner in the nearby city.
• With comfortable temps and fewer lines, I plan longer days outside and tuck in a porch nap or a book break.
• If the wind kicks up, I swap a beach aim for maritime forests, birding, or a tucked-away coffee shop until it calms down.

This is a place to slow down, savor the quiet, and let the tide set the tempo for your island time. I keep the plan loose so the trip feels like a real pause, not a checklist.

Sedona, Arizona: red rocks, wildflowers, and crowd-smart hikes

I plan my Sedona days around early hikes, when cool mornings and wildflower accents make the views sing.

March offers mild hiking weather and bright wildflowers on classic red rock routes. I favor routes that give big panoramas without long drives from town.best-places-to-visit-in-greece

How I move through the trails:

• I reach Devil’s Bridge via the Mescal Connector to avoid the rough access road and to have the span more to myself.
• Cathedral Rock is a short, steep scramble—plan extra time for photos and the leg burn.
• I cluster trailheads by area, then refuel with a late breakfast and a quick gallery stroll in the nearby city.
• If the Sedona International Film Festival overlaps my time, I catch a screening and take a quieter hike the next morning.
• For sunset, I aim for Airport Mesa pullouts or lesser-trafficked overlooks so the rocks glow without crowd stress.
• When crowds spike, I switch to creekside paths or lesser-known spots and keep a short scenic trail for windier days.

“I time my hikes for the cool morning window and save crowded afternoons for a museum or film.”

Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas: colorful cliffs without the crowds

On clear March mornings I head for Palo Duro—its layered walls glow and the trails stay pleasantly quiet. I plan one full day here and save a lighter scenic drive for the next time I return.

I make the Lighthouse Trail my headline hike; it runs 5.7 miles round‑trip and includes a short spur to Capitol Peak. The route shows classic formations and gives strong views from several pullouts.

The park feels like high desert at times, so I bring extra water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes. Spring is mild and less crowded, which keeps long hikes comfortable and photo light sharp.

• I hit the trailhead at sunrise to beat parking and the busiest hours.
• If parking fills, I shift to a backup loop or a scenic drive around the rim.
• Cabins and campsites inside the park make early starts easy and let me watch stars after dark.

“I love capping the day at an overlook and watching shadows stretch across bands and buttes.”

If I spot the protected Texas Longhorns, I keep distance and take a respectful photo. I usually plan one ambitious hiking day and one easier day so I can find quieter corners of this special park and savor the time there.

Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas: waterfalls, caves, and early wildflowers

Packing a headlamp and a thermos, I set out early for a loop that mixes waterfalls, caves, and bluff-top coffee.

March brings comfortable temperatures of about 10–18°C and a strong flow at Cedar Falls, so I aim for the canyon at first light for roaring water and softer light.

I favor the Seven Hollows route clockwise so the Grotto spur lands naturally in my plan. That order gives me shade for a picnic before I loop back and keep hiking without overheating.

Rock House Cave holds ancient pictographs; I step carefully, use my headlamp sparingly, and treat the site with respect. Ranger-led Spring Break programs run that month and help me spot seasonal wildflowers I might miss on my own.

• I book a historic cabin for a cozy night and sunrise coffee with bluff-top views.
• When rain threatens, I save the waterfall for after showers and swap slick trails for a scenic drive or a museum stop.
• I leave late afternoon free for Stout’s Point at sunset; it’s a quiet time to watch the Arkansas River valley glow.

“I can stack two short hikes or one longer route in a single day and still have energy for a sunset overlook.”

Nantucket, Massachusetts: quiet lanes and cozy shoulder-season charm

I arrive on the ferry and the island’s hush tells me this is a trip for slow walks and warm layers.

March brings cool days around 5–8°C, low crowds, and a few seasonal closures. I plan flexible meals and check gallery hours so I can pivot when a favorite café is closed.

My mornings start with long, moody beach walks at Surfside and Madaket with a thermos of something warm. When the sun breaks, I switch to lighthouse loops for crisp photos and blue-sky coastal frames.

I pick an in‑town base so I can walk to coffee, shops, and the ferry without a car. That makes it easy to tuck into galleries for warmth between stops and to join the family-friendly Shamrock Shuffle if it falls on my weekend.

• I expect winter just easing and pack windproof layers, beanie, and gloves.
• I enjoy quiet streets and great rates this time of year—ideal for a window-seat reading day with a harbor view.
• When the light clears, I chase a sunset at Brant Point to close the day with coastal photos.

“I let the slow pace set the schedule and keep plans flexible around what’s open and the weather.”

Fontainebleau State Park, Louisiana: lakeside trails and bayou paddles

I often take the Causeway out of New Orleans for a quick lakeside reset at Fontainebleau. The park sits on Lake Pontchartrain’s north shore and March brings pleasant 16–24°C days with low crowds.

My typical day starts with a morning ride on the Tammany Trace from the Mandeville Trailhead. I pause for coffee, then roll toward oak-shaded loops that feel far quieter than the city.best-time-to-visit-maldives

On calm afternoons I launch from the Nature Trail canoe put-in and paddle Bayou Cane. The cypress and birds make the water feel private, and a short walk to the mossy sugar mill ruins adds moody photo stops.

“I pair a Fontainebleau day with dinner back in New Orleans for the best of both worlds.”

• Morning: bike the Trace and grab coffee in Mandeville.
• Afternoon: paddle Bayou Cane or picnic on a small lakeside beach.
• Plan B: sheltered oak trails if winds make paddling tricky.

Best places to visit in March USA: my quick-hit planning guide

My planning starts with the vibe I want—museums and cafés or sunrise hikes and overlooks. That choice shapes timing, packing, and which tours I lock in first.

City breaks vs. national park escapes: choosing your vibe

If I crave city rhythm, I aim for cultural festivals and short walking loops. Think cherry blossom windows in D.C., late-month food events, and timed monument tours.

If nature calls, I pick a national park or wildflower corridor and build a flexible 2–3 day window around bloom forecasts or clear-sky nights for aurora viewing.

Weather and packing tips by region

Beach trips get breathable layers, a light sweater for nights, sun protection, and a dry bag for boat time.

Desert days mean early hikes, wide-brim hats, electrolytes, and a warm post-sunset layer.

Mountain or late-winter spots need insulated boots, traction, and thermoses for long cold mornings.

How I find deals around spring break and peak blossom dates

I book refundable rates, travel midweek when possible, and reserve must-do tours early. For blooms and poppy peaks I watch cams and leave a day free for weather shifts.

Conclusion

I treat March as a reset—short travel windows, long light, and chances for surprise moments from coast to tundra.

This guide pulls together highlights like DC’s National Cherry Blossom Festival, Antelope Valley poppy fields, Indian Wells tennis weeks, Texas bluebonnets, and Fairbanks’ northern lights.

Each place or city offers a different mood. Some are festival-driven, others are quiet wildflower runs or aurora chases. Shoulder-season timing often brings value and calmer atmospheres.

Use the planning notes here to line up bloom windows and event dates and to lock a few key reservations. Keep layers, build flexibility into your days, and leave time for the spots that surprise you.

Most of all, pick a trip that feels like a reset this spring. Give yourself room to linger and enjoy the longer light and fresher air.