10 Things To Do In USA In March For Your Summer Getaway

March is a great month to tour the US as the winter recedes and spring blossoms take over. The temperature starts to rise, and each region of the country has its own unique charm, from nature excursions and festivals to road trips and visits to national parks. If you want to experience the local culture or take in the beauty of nature, March is a wonderful month for a range of events in the USA. Here is a guide to explore things to do in the USA in March.

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Things To Do In The USA In March

Explore this huge country be it Arizona’s deserts or whale watching in California, here’s a list of things to see in the USA in March.

1. Experience The Cherry Blossom Festival In Washington, D.C.

Visitors are flocking around a picturesque blossoming cherry grove in Washington, D.C
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Photo: brianareedcummings / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

If you are visiting Washington, DC, in March, make sure to check out the National Cherry Blossom Festival. When the cherry trees bloom near the Tidal Basin, the city turns pink and white. This traditional festival celebrates the gift of cherry trees by Japan in 1912 and has a range of activities, including parades, cultural performances and kite flying. The peak of the bloom (usually towards the end of March) creates some spectacular photos. If you have time, explore the National Mall and other museums in the vicinity.

Location: Washington, D.C.
Best Time To Visit: Late March to early April

2. Attend Mardi Gras Celebrations In New Orleans, Louisiana

People dressed in clown attires celebrate the Mardi Gras festival in New Orleans

Photo: ErikaWittlieb / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Mardi Gras is one of the USA’s biggest festivals, and New Orleans is the heart of the festival. Also known as “Fat Tuesday”, it is the last day of Lent and is filled with street fairs, mask balls, and unending street parties. March is carnival’s last month, but the parades are still elaborate, there’s music, and there’s an infectious party atmosphere all around the city. Go for the parades in the French Quarter, try local Jambalaya and Beignets, and experience the diverse culture of this city.

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Best Time To Visit: Visit in early March (around Fat Tuesday)

3. Ski In The Rocky Mountains Of Colorado

A breathtaking view from the Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.

Photo: Max Kramer / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

For those who like winter sports, March remains the most productive time to hit the slopes in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. And though it’s approaching spring, snow conditions are still excellent, particularly in early March. Aspen, Vail and Breckenridge are the best ski towns and have their own character and different terrain for beginners as well as pro skiers. Apart from skiing and snowboarding, you can go snowshoeing, tubing and après-skiing in quaint mountain lodges. The weather begins to warm up, making getting outside even more enjoyable without the freezing temperatures of winter.

Location: Colorado (Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge)
Best Time To Visit: In early March

4. Explore The Cactus Blooms In Arizona’s Desert Parks

The bloomed cactus is displayed in the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona

Photo: Dino Reichmuth / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

In March, Arizona’s deserts burst into bloom with wildflowers and cacti in bloom that create a riot of colour in arid conditions. Look at the saguaro cacti blooming with delicate white flowers in Saguaro National Park or Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. The warmer springs are the perfect time to hike, bike, and see nature without the heat of summer. Explore hiking trails like Northern Arizona Trails and Southern Arizona Trails. The chances of seeing wildlife also spike in March, which makes camping even more exciting.

Location: Phoenix, Tucson, and surrounding desert parks in Arizona
Best Time To Visit: Visit between mid to Late March

5. Enjoy Whale Watching In California’s Monterey Bay

Image of the tails of two Humpback Whales spotted in Monterey Bay in California, USA.

Photo: Georg Wolf / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Whale watching on the California coast is great in March, particularly in Monterey Bay. It is the most active time of year for the annual migration of grey whales from the warm waters of Mexico back to the Arctic. Take a whale-watching cruise to experience not just grey whales, but orcas, humpbacks, and several species of dolphins too. Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row provide other tourist activities. The month of March is cold but pleasant, which makes the month a good time to do things along the coastline and explore.

Location: Monterey Bay, California
Best Time To Visit: Visit between mid-February to mid-April

6. Stroll Through The Texas Bluebonnets In Hill Country

The image shows the hilly regions covered with greenery in Texas Hill County, USA.

Photo: Ryan Riggins / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The Texas Hill Country is a beautiful sight to see in the March when the bluebonnets begin to bloom and fields of bright blue flowers cover the area. You can drive along the Bluebonnet Trail near Ennis or check out the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center for prime views. The mild spring allows for hikes, picnics, and wine tasting at the local vineyards. Photographers will appreciate the views around the bluebonnet, and kids can have fun in the slow-paced, pure surroundings. The blooms are generally brief, so make your plans for the bluebonnet season at the end of March.

Location: Texas Hill Country (Austin, Fredericksburg, and Burnet)
Best Time To Visit: Late March to Early April

7. Attend Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade In Georgia

A fountain in front of the White House dyed green on St. Patrick's Day in Washington, D.C.

Photo: Sophie Popplewell / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Savannah is home to one of the largest and most vibrant St Patrick’s Day celebrations in the US. The city’s parade, which takes place every year on or around March 17, brings in throngs of visitors from around the nation. The parades, floats and colourful Irish-themed displays are part of the festival. The entire city goes green, and residents and visitors feast on Irish food, folk music and street parties. The month of March is an excellent time to visit and explore the city, as the temperature is good enough for various outdoor activities.

Location: Savannah, Georgia
Best Time To Visit: Mid-March (around March 17)

8. Attend The South By Southwest Festival In Austin, Texas

Korean artists perform a show on a road in Texas during the South by Southwest festival

Photo: Bonnielou2013 / Wikimedia Commons

Wondering what to do in the USA in March? Go to SXSW. The South by Southwest or SXSW, is an international music, film and media festival with a special mixture of interactive media. It is held in Austin every March and draws artists, tech geeks and business owners from all over the world. Live shows, movie screenings, conferences, and networking events exist throughout the city. If you want to find new music, see a movie premiere, or see technology, there is always something going on at the SXSW festival.

Location: Austin, Texas
Best Time To Visit: Visit during mid-March

9. Explore The Bayou During Springtime In Louisiana

Image of the dream-like Bayou Corne is a wetland in the state of Louisiana in the USA.

Photo: jc.winkler / Wikimedia Commons

The Louisiana Bayou comes to life in the spring, and March is a suitable month to enjoy this rare environment. During guided tours, tour the swamps and wetlands and observe alligators, herons and other animals waking up from winter hibernation. Cities such as Lafayette and Lake Charles offer a full range of real bayou activities, such as kayaking, air boating, and fishing. Spring has pleasant weather, and the plants start to grow, making the view here amazing. You can’t forget to taste the deliciousness of Louisiana’s Cajun cuisine while enjoying your adventure here.

Location: Louisiana (New Orleans, Lafayette, and Lake Charles)
Best Time To Visit: Late March to Early April

10. Discover The Waterfalls Of The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Beautiful mountains in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina, USA.

Photo: AppalachianCentrist / Wikimedia Commons

March is a great month to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park because the snow melts in January, expanding the rivers and creating some of the most breathtaking waterfalls. Popular trails like the Laurel Falls Trail and Grotto Falls Trail offer dramatic views of falling water accompanied by rising spring flowers. It is ideal for hiking, photography, and bird watching due to the cool temperatures and small crowds. Take your sturdy hiking shoes and carry raincoats because some trails get slippery in the early spring rain.

Location: Tennessee (Great Smoky Mountains National Park)
Best Time To Visit: In early to mid-March

March is perfect to visit the USA, and there are various attractions and events that you can enjoy in the country. Whether you are looking for a cultural festival, a peaceful wilderness, or adrenaline-pumping outdoor experiences, there is something for all. So pack your bags and plan to embark on a memorable journey with TripXL across the United States this March.

Cover Photo: Goodfreephotos_com / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the weather conditions like in the USA in March?

The weather in March varies widely across the USA. Northern states may still experience winter weather with snow and cold temperatures, while southern regions start to warm up, offering pleasant spring conditions. Coastal areas can be rainy, so it’s wise to pack for different weather scenarios.

When do the cherry blossoms typically bloom in Washington, D.C.?

The peak bloom for cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C., generally occurs in late March to early April. However, the timing depends on weather conditions leading up to the season, so it’s a good idea to check bloom forecasts for accurate dates.

Can I ski in the USA in March?

Yes, many ski resorts in the Rocky Mountains and other high-altitude areas remain open in March. The snow conditions are usually good, and you can enjoy milder weather and sunny days. It’s a fantastic time for both skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

What is the best way to experience the Texas bluebonnets?

The best way to see Texas bluebonnets is by taking a scenic drive through Hill Country. Late March is usually the peak bloom period. Popular spots include the Bluebonnet Trail, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, and various state parks.

How can I attend the South by Southwest (SXSW) Festival in Austin?

To attend SXSW, you need to purchase a badge that grants access to specific events, screenings, or concerts. The badges can be expensive and sell out quickly, so it’s best to book early. You can also explore free events and activities throughout Austin during the festival.

What to do in California in March?

You can consider whale watching in California. March is peak migration season for grey whales along the California coast. Monterey Bay is one of the best spots for whale-watching tours, where you can see grey whales, humpbacks, and dolphins. The tours offer an incredible experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

Things To Do In USA In March From St. Patrick’s Day Parades To Outdoor Adventures