If you’re plotting a March vacation around the United States, I have some good news and some bad news.
The good news is that you’re spoiled for choice! Seriously, we live in an incredible country. The diversity is enormous, and sometimes I get a wee bit panicked about how I’m ever going to cross everything off my U.S. bucket list…
…that leads us to the bad news. You need to make a decision.
From incredible hiking destinations in the USA to the spring wonderlands of Washington D.C., there are dozens of options to contemplate.
Below you’ll find my top recommendations for the best places to visit in the USA in March.
Let’s start planning your perfect spring break getaway!
The Best United States Destinations to Visit in March
I won’t lie. It took me a while to whittle this list down to a few of my favourites. Here are some of the best nature, city, foodie, and cultural escapes in the U.S. during March.
Moab, Utah
Moab is one of the best March destinations in the U.S. if you’re a nature and outdoors lover. The spring weather is wild and perfect for putting on your hiking shoes and getting lost in the wilderness for a few hours.
If you don’t have hiking shoes then we definitely recommend investing in some before this trip. Bass Pro Shops have a great range of outdoor wear that is worth looking into. If you want to save some money on the hiking shoes you get from there then click here now to find some coupon codes you can use. Taking the right equipment is very important if you’re going to visit Moab.
Plan a day trip to the Arches and Canyonlands National Park and the Dead Horse Point State Park. You’ll find plenty of hiking trails for all levels and jaw-dropping scenery.
If you’re not much of a hiker, you can still take in Arches’ natural beauty via the Arches Scenic Drive. It winds past all the major viewpoints such as The Windows, Delicate Arch, and Park Avenue!
New York, New York
If you’re on the hunt for one of the best March destinations in the USA, then look no further than the Big Apple. New York City is a vibrant, cosmopolitan metropolis with a firm spot on many travellers bucket lists.
In March, the winter freeze melts away, and the city starts to buzz with activity. Attend the famous St. Patrick’s Day Parade (dating back to 1762!) and spend the day dancing to Irish music while dressing head-to-toe in green.
Another spring event you don’t want to miss is the Macy’s Flower Show! What better way to celebrate the end of winter with an impressive display of colourful and exotic flowers.
While you’re in the City That Never Sleeps, grab a ticket for a Broadway show, take in the skyline at the top of the Rockefeller Center, go on a stroll through Central Park, and visit the many famous filming locations from movies and T.V. shows like Gossip Girl and When Harry Met Sally.
Washington D.C.
March is the best time to visit Washington D.C.!
Why?
Springtime transforms the city into a sea of blush when thousands of cherry blossom trees bloom.
In 1912, Japan gifted 3,000 trees to the United States as a show of friendship. Today, over 4,000 cherry blossoms are around the city, with only 100 of the original trees left.
So, where’s the best place to see these historic trees and snap some gorgeous Instagram photos while you’re at it?
The Tidal Basin! Cherry blossom trees line the walkways making it incredibly romantic and a wonderful spot to pop the question if love is in the air.
If you want to escape the crowds, the trees bloom in full force at East Potomac Park, Kenwood Maryland, and the National Arboretum.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston may be a small city, but it has a gigantic list of options for travellers. People flock here for the rich history, the southern charm, and a delicious food scene.
In March, daytime temperatures are in the 70s, making it one of the most comfortable times of year to explore Charleston.
And boy, does the city take advantage of the excellent spring weather!
Plan your trip around the Charleston Fashion Week, the BB&T Charleston Wine Food Festival or watch the annual reenactment of the Civil War’s Battle for Broxton Bridge.
For a different perspective, go on a harbor cruise, take in the city from the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, and stop by the Firefly Distillery for a taste of moonshine or sweet tea whiskey.
Joshua Tree, California
Want to escape the city for spring break? Head to one of the most beautiful places in the United States – Joshua Tree.
During the summer months, temperatures hover at 99 F, making it too hot for most people to enjoy. However, in March, the sweltering heat hasn’t kicked in yet, and the wildflowers are in full bloom, making it one of the best times to explore California’s national park.
Covering over 794,000 acres, Joshua Tree is an outdoor lovers paradise. Spend your March U.S. getaway climbing the “Chasm of Doom” or hike the spectacular Indian Cove Trail. Just take a sip of your wellness drink (if you are not consuming one, you might want to check out ActivatedYou Morning Complete by Maggie Q) to lift your spirit and boost your metabolism before embarking on your hiking journey.
Anyway, remember, no trip to Joshua Tree is complete without the iconic yucca trees!
If you want to step by back into time, book the Presidental Suite at The Monkey Tree Hotel. It’s where Marilyn Monroe and JFK famously spent a night together.
Sedona, Arizona
Love hiking? Then Sedona, Arizona, is one of the best March destinations in the USA for you!
The weather is warm, with temperatures hovering in the 60s, making it comfortable to hike your heart out. Plus, the desert flowers are in bloom! Along the hiking trails, you’ll see pops of colour contrasting against the rust-coloured landscape.
Such warm weather and soothing location can induce sleep in anyone. However, are you someone who finds difficulty sleeping in a tent? Then you might need to either upgrade your tent or maybe invest in some good quality pillow or sleeping mats, to relax you faster. That applies only if you are planning for a hike that cannot be completed in a day.
Only have time for one hike? Conquer the Devil’s Bridge! It’s 4.2 miles there and back with incredible views of the Sedona landscape.
March also welcomes a handful of exciting festivals to the city. Work on your Sun Salutations at the Sedona Yoga Festival and fill up on delicious treats at the Sedona Food Truck Festival.
The other big draw to this part of Arizona is the healing culture. The Sedona Vortex attracts people from all over the world who believe in the vortex’s energetic healing powers.
San Francisco, California
Located in Northern California, San Franciso is famous worldwide for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the historic cable cars, the Painted Ladies (anyone else having Full House flashbacks?), and it’s world-class cuisine.
The City By The Bay receives millions of tourists a year, but if you want to skip the summer crowds while still cashing in on the sunny and mostly rain-free weather, it’s an incredible U.S. destination to visit in March.
- Go on a tour to Alcatraz Island (remember to book in advance!)
- See the sea lions on Pier 39
- Watch the sunset at the Golden Gate Bridge
- Tour the Museum of Modern Art
- Head to the Sutro Baths
San Francisco is also a haven for foodies who want to indulge in an impressive range of dishes from authentic Thai food to Peruvian ceviche.
P.S. March is one of the windiest times to visit San Fran. Don’t forget your jacket and layers to keep the chill at bay.
Hawaii
Is there ever a bad time to book a flight to Hawaii? The island paradise is home to pristine beaches, lush landscapes and warm weather all year around.
In March, it’s the end of the rainy season and an excellent time to scoop up a deal or two before the high season (April to October) crowds roll in.
The best part of travelling to Hawaii is the diversity among the different islands.
- Head to Maui and stay in luxurious resorts and watch the sunrise from Haleakalā (a dormant volcano forming more than 75% of the island!).
- Oahu (the Heart of Hawaii) is known for it’s incredible North Shore beaches and the famous Waikiki Beach. History buffs can visit Pearl Harbour and Hanaiakamalama – Queen Emma’s Summer Palace.
- On the Big Island, you can visit Volcanoes National Park, home to dozens of day hikes. You can also sign up for a tour of the island’s two active volcanos Kilauea and Mauna Loa (the largest volcano on Earth).
Wherever you decide to travel in Hawaii, one thing is for sure. You won’t be short of places to see and things to do. You can book a boat tour with somewhere like Kai Kanani and go whale watching, or you can relax and catch the sun’s rays on the many beautiful beaches that attract thousands of vacation-goers each year. Whatever your interests are, there will be something to do for everyone, making Hawaii a holiday hot spot that you should definitely add to your list.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is one of those U.S. destinations you can visit any time of year and have a completely different experience. In March, it’s festival season, and the oppressive summer heat has yet to arrive, making it the perfect U.S. spring destination.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the city’s Irish Channel Parade. It’s held in the Lower Garden District and shines a spotlight on New Orleans vibrant culture.
For bookworms, plan your spring break around the Tennessee Williams and Saints and Sinners literary festivals.
Foodies can indulge in the Top Taco (picture unlimited tacos and tequila) and Hogs for the Cause (a BBQ cookoff with proceeds going to brain cancer research).
Besides the festivities, you can explore New Orleans rich history. Explore the French Quarter or venture over to Frenchman Street for something off the tourist trail.
Head to St. Charles Avenue to see the historic mansions, go shopping on Magazine Street, and spend an afternoon wandering around one of the most beautiful neighbours in the United States – Uptown New Orleans.
Which of these incredible March destinations in the U.S. are you going to plan a trip to explore?