20 Best Places to Visit in the USA in March: Top Spring Destinations for 2024
After a year of restrictions, March offers ideal U.S. travel opportunities with mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds than peak seasons. Save on costs while exploring iconic sites. Discover our curated list of 20 top destinations for an unforgettable spring getaway.
1. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve – Premier Spring Bloom Destination
Experience the mesmerizing Antelope Valley in Southern California, where vibrant poppy fields transform the landscape into a sea of red and orange. Eight miles of trails wind through these state flower displays. Blooms typically last 10 weeks from late February to early May, peaking late March to early April. Monitor the Antelope Valley Nature Preserve website for real-time updates influenced by weather.
2. New Orleans, Louisiana – Vibrant Festivals and Cultural Immersion
Ideal for culture enthusiasts avoiding summer heat, March in New Orleans features post-Mardi Gras festivals. The Tennessee Williams Literary Festival offers masterclasses and performances, ending with the 'Stella' shouting contest in the French Quarter. Saints and Sinners celebrates LGBTQIA+ literary heritage. Enjoy Wednesday at the Square, Buku music festivals, and culinary events in this spring-spirited city.
3. Golden Isles, Georgia – Pristine Beaches and Mild Spring Weather
Four barrier islands between Savannah and Jacksonville boast rich history from Native American shellfishing to plantations. March's 21°C averages, gentle breezes, and sunshine are perfect for exploring marshes, beaches, and wildlife like leatherback turtles and dolphins. Shop in Pier Village, dine in Redfern, or admire Victorian architecture in Brunswick.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Cherry Blossoms and Craft Beer Delights
March brings bright days with 12°C daytime highs to Philadelphia. View cherry blossoms in West Fairmount Park, picnic under fragrant canopies, or visit the Japanese House. Sample craft beers in breweries, explore historic Spring Gardens, artist studios at Cherry Street Pier, and drive-in movies along the waterfront.
5. Fairbanks, Alaska – Northern Lights and Midnight Sun Adventures
Base for Denali National Park, Fairbanks offers urban amenities amid wilderness. March peaks for Aurora Borealis, endless sunsets, and the World Ice Art Competition. Enjoy ice skating, skiing, hot springs, and wildlife spotting including bears, wolves, and moose.
6. Texas Hill Country – Wildflower Meadows and Historic Towns
Between San Antonio and Austin, explore rolling hills, wildflowers like bluebonnets, German heritage towns (Boerne, Fredericksburg, Kerrville), and Lake McQueeney. March's pleasant weather hosts cook-offs and festivals.
7. Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts – Whale Watching and Coastal Charm
March avoids peak crowds for humpback whale migrations. Enjoy beaches, fishing villages, lighthouses, seafood, and Jaws filming sites on Martha’s Vineyard at lower prices.
8. Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas – Serene Trails and Waterfalls
9. The Tidal Basin, Washington, D.C. – Iconic Cherry Blossom Festival
Late March to early April peaks bring pink cherry blossoms. Visit early mornings for photos amid monuments. Explore museums, Georgetown, DuPont Circle via open-top bus or train.
10. Kauai, Hawaii – Lush Gardens and Beaches
March's short rains yield sunny days, lower prices pre-peak. Discover palm beaches, canyons, waterfalls, and aloha spirit on the Garden Isle.
11. Fontainebleau State Park, Louisiana – Lakeside Cabins and Trails
2,800 acres along Lake Pontchartrain offer stilt cabins, beaches, boating, and 27 miles of trails. Warm, low-humidity March is ideal, near New Orleans.
12. Providence Canyon, Georgia – 'Little Grand Canyon' Wonders
150-ft-deep canyon with 143 colorful shades, formed partly by erosion. March avoids heat/crowds for rim trails, waterfalls, and stargazing.
13. Atlanta, Georgia – Cultural Hub and Gardens
Mild spring suits exploring MLK National Historical Park, Botanical Gardens, and diverse cuisine reflecting civil rights history.
14. Saguaro National Park, Arizona – Giant Cacti and Wildflowers
Iconic saguaros (up to 78 ft) amid 24-28°C March blooms. Hike Valley View Overlook or Mica View Loop; spot petroglyphs and wildlife.
15. Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, Kansas – Ancient Chalk Formations
100-ft Niobrara Chalk spires evoke ancient times. Mild March trails reveal fossils without crowds.
16. San Diego, California – Beach Vibes and Festivals
19°C averages for festivals, Ocean Beach, wildflowers at Anza-Borrego, and gray whale migrations along Route 101.
17. Arches National Park, Utah – Dramatic Stone Arches
16°C March avoids summer heat/crowds. Explore 2,000+ arches like Delicate Arch at sunset over 119 sq miles.
18. Palm Springs, California – Mid-Century Modern Oasis
27°C for architecture tours, Aerial Tramway, Sunnylands Gardens, shopping, golf, and alfresco dining.
19. Sedona, Arizona – Red Rock Vortexes and Hiking
Perfect hiking amid buttes, wildflowers, and spiritual vortex sites for renewal.
20. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas – Second-Largest U.S. Canyon
120-mile, 800-ft-deep canyon with Lighthouse formation. 20°C March for trails, camping, longhorns, and zip-lining.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best place to visit in the USA in March?
Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve offers stunning poppy fields and 8 miles of trails.
Where for a short trip in March?
Philadelphia: Cherry blossoms in West Fairmount Park, craft beers, historic neighborhoods.
Cheapest place in March?
Fontainebleau State Park, Louisiana: Warm weather, cabins, camping near New Orleans.
Cheapest flights?
Atlanta; also Chicago, Dallas, Orlando, Myrtle Beach.
Best beach vacation?
Kauai, Hawaii: Lush beaches, deals before April peak.
