18 Awesome Places to Visit in March in USA (I’ve explored)

Early spring is when you can enjoy iconic landscapes in manageable temperatures for less money than the peak seasons, so I think it’s a win-win! From traveling around during this month, here are my favourite spots to explore…

1. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

I decided to visit Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve during this month and I was rewarded with a breathtaking sea of bright orange California poppies and colorful wildflowers, creating a spectacular, Insta-worthy display.

I also liked that the Jane S. Pinheiro Interpretive Center opened on March 1st for the spring wildflower season and featured fascinating poppy exhibits, educational displays, and a cute gift shop filled with wildflower-themed gifts.

I drove an hour and 45 minutes north from Los Angeles and spent a beautiful weekend an hour away at the cool little glamping spot Huttopia Paradise Springs. When in the actual reserve, I hiked the Poppy Trail South Loop, which meandered through a blaze of wild orange poppies, and explored the Antelope Butte Trail which lead to the Kitanemuk Vista Point – the views of the photogenic landscapes from here were just breathtaking!

Location: Antelope Valley, Southern California | Vibe: wildflower nature escape | Avg temp: 45°F to 70°F

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting the Jane S. Pinheiro Interpretive Center – I loved how the watercolor paintings beautifully captured the orange poppies, purple and blue lupines, and bright pink owl’s clover!

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

I found out for myself that March was an awesome time to visit this fun, historic city—Mardi Gras Day fell at the beginning of the month (although it does change so check before you go!), and although it marked the end of the Carnival season, there was still a lineup of fun yet more relaxed cultural events taking place.

I experienced warm, comfortable weather, fewer crowds after Mardi Gras, blooming spring flowers, better hotel rates, and a much more local feel about the place too (which I loved)!

I also loved discovering the packed calendar of events which took place this month which included Super Sunday where Indian tribes dressed in elaborate hand-sewn suits and paraded through the city, the wonderful Tennessee Williams Literary Festival, which featured inspiring masterclasses and theatrical performances, the lively LGBTQ Saints and Sinners Literary Festival, the fun Irish Channel Parade for St.Patrick’s Day, which turned the streets into a sea of green, the inspirational New Orleans Book Festival and the free, family-friendly Wednesday at the Square.

I flew into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) and it was the perfect fun five day break. Aside from the events, I also explored the historic French Quarter, took a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River, joined a spooky voodoo tour, walked through the oak-lined paths of City Park, and tried veggie gumbo and beignets (a deep-fried pastry) at Café du Monde.

Location: Louisiana, Southern USA | Vibe: lively jazz, colorful streets, historic charm | Avg temp: 61°F to 79°F 

My highlights…

• I loved my stay at the romantic, 4-star Celestine Hotel—from the boutique vibe and wood-carved four-poster bed to the peaceful central courtyard! The friendly staff told me that the property has rich cocktail history as the former residence of Celestine Peychaud (daughter of the legendary bitters creator Antoine Peychaud).

3. Golden Isles, Georgia

I visited this scenic string of barrier islands on a March early spring vacation and it turned out to be an excellent choice! I discovered mild, sunny weather that was perfect for beach walks, bike rides, dolphin spotting, and exploring – all with far fewer tourist crowds before the summer peak rush began.

I also experienced seeing blossoming native plants everywhere, a relaxing, more local vibe, pre-season deals on accommodation and flights there and also some early spring events on too. The lively St. Patrick’s Day Parade on St. Simons Island, and the Jekyll Island Arts Festival also took place this month.

I flew into Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK), drove for an hour and stayed for a very relaxing week. I spent it exploring Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island, climbing the historic St. Simons Lighthouse, kayaking through marshes, biking the scenic island trails, visiting the gorgeous residents at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and discovered Brunswick and its impressive Victorian architecture, speciality shopping and locally-owned eateries. 

Location: Georgia Coast, Southeast USA | Vibe: laid-back island escape, sandy beaches, moss-draped oaks | Avg temp: 57°F to 76°F (April)

My highlights…

• Browsing the boutique shops in St. Simons’ Pier Village – I loved the artisan Georgia peach preserves and small-batch hot sauces in Redfern Village gourmet food market, and the delicious cinnamon rolls at Dulce Dough Bakery!

4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I took a spring city trip to this historic and cultural hub, where the mild early spring weather made it perfect for exploring iconic sites without the summer crowds. I also got to enjoy the blooming cherry blossoms in Fairmount Park, a more local, laid-back vibe, and great hotel discounts before the peak-season tourist rush kicked in.

I also loved catching the fun and lively St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the huge Philadelphia Flower Show, the East Passyunk Restaurant Week which featured special tasting menus, and the Women’s Film Festival which showcased independent films by and about women.

I flew into Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and stayed at the trendy industrial-chic 4-star Sonder The Heid for a fun-filled four days.

I sipped on craft beer in the early spring sunshine in the funky neighborhood, took a stroll through the charming historic streets of Spring Garden (which were lined with pretty 19th-century townhouses), saw local artists at work in studios made from repurposed shipping containers at Cherry Street Pier, and mingled with creative types in the trendy waterfront bars – The Bar at Cherry Street Pier was my favorite!

Location: Pennsylvania, Northeast USA | Vibe: historic city charm, spring blossoms, lively neighborhoods | Avg temp: 45°F to 64°F

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting the atmospheric Bourse Food Hall which was housed in a former stock exchange – the smoky Sheet Pan Roasted Veggie Tacos from the Takorean counter were especially divine!

5. Fairbanks, Alaska

I took a trip to this northern Alaskan city known for its remote beauty during this month because from late August to mid-April, the dark and clear nights offered awesome conditions for viewing the Northern Lights!

I also discovered there were longer daylight hours and milder winter temperatures but still the snow conditions remained excellent so I was still able to experience snowy outdoor adventures and Alaska’s unique winter culture without the extreme cold of the earlier months. 

I loved that I could also join in some of the fun events that were taking place in March. I just managed to catch the end of the incredible World Ice Art Championships and the lively Festival of Native Arts which celebrated Indigenous culture and caught the uplifting Spring Equinox celebrations around Fairbanks, including special seasonal exhibits at the University of Alaska Museum of the North.

I flew into Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) and spent a unique short break here. After the events ended, I soaked in the steamy mineral-rich Chena Hot Springs, went snowmobiling in the scenic Chena River State Recreation Area and learnt about Alaskan heritage at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center.

Location: Interior Alaska, Northwest USA | Vibe: rugged wilderness and big northern skies | Avg temp: 21°F to 45°F

My highlights…

• Checking out the incredible sculptures created by artists from all over the world at the Fairbanks World Ice Art Championships – my favorites were the “Jellyfish Hunter” whose tentacles were illuminated with colorful lights!

6. Texas Hill Country

I was completely won over by this scenic central region on my March trip! I found the weather was warm and pleasant, the famous bluebonnets and wildflowers had started to bloom across the rolling hills, and it was the perfect time to explore charming towns, tour wineries, go hiking and take refreshing dips in natural swimming holes before the summer crowds arrived! 

I was also excited to just be able to catch the Texas Independence Day Celebration at Garrison Brothers Distillery in Hye, which featured live music and local food vendors and the Mistick Krewe of Okeanos Mardi Gras Parade which had colorful floats and live music. The lively Llano Earth Art Fest which featured rock stacking and river sculptures took place this month too.

I flew into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), drove two hours and spent two weeks both exploring and relaxing. I took scenic drives lined with beautiful bluebonnets and wildflowers, hiked up Enchanted Rock, indulged in wine tasting in Fredericksburg, browsed art galleries in Wimberley, and picnicked by the spring-fed spots of Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole Regional Park (the last two just over an hour’s journey from my base but they were worth it)!

Location: Central Texas, Southern USA | Vibe: laid-back country escape, small-town hospitality | Avg temp: 54°F to 79°F 

My highlights…

• Staying at the wonderful 4-star City on a Hill at Spring Creek in Fredericksburg – I love the cozy rustic chic styling, the sleek black Keurig coffee maker, the lush setting and having a private hot tub on the veranda!
• Sampling the velvety Honeydew Bourbon at the rustic Garrison Brothers Distillery.

7. Nantucket, Massachusetts

My highlights…

• Staying at ultra-charming 4-star The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin – I loved my cute cottage named the “Crow’s Nest,”which came with boutique styling, a private deck and even personal priority bicycles.

8. Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas

I went on an early spring break to this scenic and historic park during the off-peak season of March and found so far fewer crowds so there was a more immersive nature experience and more peaceful views from overlooks like Stout’s Point!

I also discovered that the pleasantly mild temperatures were perfect for longer hikes, the wildlife had started to become more active, the waterfalls were at their peak flow, the pretty wildflowers had started to bloom during this month too.

I saw that events had started up as well which included the lively Spring Break Week activities which were hosted by park interpreters, and the family-friendly Living History demonstrations at Mather Lodge.

I flew into Little Rock National Airport (LIT), drove an hour and stayed for a long weekend. That was enough time to hike to the powerful Cedar Falls, see the pretty wildflowers along Seven Hollows Trail, enjoy peaceful views from Stout’s Point, and explore ancient pictographs at Rock House Cave.

Location: Central Arkansas, Southern USA | Vibe: relaxed, back-to-nature retreat | Avg temp: 48°F to 72°F

My favorite highlights…

• Staying in a cozy historic park cabin – I loved the hand-hewn log beams, the original stone fireplace, the wooden swing chair on the front porch and the vintage iron latches on the windows!

9. The Tidal Basin and Washington D.C.

My favorite highlights…

• Going for a scenic bike ride around Tidal Basin Loop – I loved how the calm waters of the Tidal Basin reflected the sky, cherry blossoms, and monuments, creating picture-perfect views while a sweet floral scent drifted through the air! 

10. Kauai, Hawaii

This month marks the official off-peak season due to the rainy season, but on my March vacation here I personally found the rain showers to be brief and the sun to quickly reappear afterwards, so it didn’t spoil my trip at all! 

I also discovered it was a great time to visit because the island was at its greenest and most vibrant after the winter rain, the waterfalls were at full flow, the humpback whales were still visible offshore, and the weather was warm enough to enjoy beaches and swimming all without the peak-season crowds. I also managed to find excellent discounts on flights and accommodation too, bonus! 

It felt like there was always something fun on – I saw the Prince Kūhiō Festival which honored the Hawaiian prince with cultural events and hula performances, and the E Kanikapila Kakou program was held every Monday evening (from mid-January through to this month) which offered free weekly concerts with local musicians.

I flew into Lihue Airport (LIH), the main airport on Kauai and spent an idyllic week here. As well as relaxing on Poipu Beach and the events, I also hiked the incredible Kalalau Trail located along the famous Na Pali Coast and the Waimea Canyon Trail. I managed to also squeeze in watching humpback whales from Kilauea Lighthouse, and lively hula performances at Smith Family Garden Luau.

Location: Hawaii, Pacific USA | Vibe: laid-back tropical escape | Avg temp: 69°F to 79°F 

My highlights…

• Staying at the dreamy 4-star Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu – I loved the unique design in the villa which came with a gourmet kitchen and expansive lanais, the beautiful landscaped gardens and the incredible “Sunset Wall” where I sat and gazed at Insta-worthy sunsets!

11. Fontainebleau State Park, Louisiana

This month was off-peak season in this 2,800-acre park on Lake Pontchartrain’s north shore and on my March trip, I found the weather was mild and pleasant so it was perfect for outdoor activities, exploring and spotting the migratory birds along the marsh boardwalks, and enjoying peaceful lakeside views before the summer crowds arrived.

I loved that there were some fun, free events on as well such as the animal-welfare promoting Mardi Paws Parade which featured costumed pets, the Abita Springs Busker Festival which showcased street musicians and Louisiana roots music.

I flew into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), and drove 45 minutes north across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway to finally reach the park. Once here, I stayed for a tranquil week in a rustic wooden cabin located along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain – it was incredible to wake up to the sound of the lapping waves each morning.

I also really enjoyed biking the Tammany Trace, walking beneath the atmospheric moss-draped oaks, exploring the atmospheric Sugar Mill ruins, braving the Alligator Marsh Boardwalk (it was just a little scary!), and hiking and paddling the unique Bayou Cane Trail which wound through atmospheric cypress swamps.

Location: Louisiana, Southern USA | Vibe: low-key lakeside retreat | Avg temp: 56°F to 77°F

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the eerie ruins of Bernard de Marigny’s old plantation sugar mill which is located within the park – it was spooky to see the crumbling stone walls slowly being reclaimed by moss and vines and the ancient rusting machinery! 

12. Atlanta, Georgia

Summers in this fun, modern Southern city are hot and humid, so last year I decided to take a break here in the spring instead. Atlanta turned out to be an awesome place to take a trip to in March because the weather had begun to warm up (but it wasn’t uncomfortably hot), there were pretty early spring blooms filling the parks and gardens, there were far fewer crowds, and lower prices on accommodation. 

I loved how the city had also come alive with fun events including the international Atlanta Film Festival, the colorful Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade, and the family-friendly Atlanta Science Festival which featured hands-on exhibits and live demos and the lively Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival.

I flew into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and based myself here for a fun four days. That was enough time to catch some events, check out the early spring flowers in the Atlanta Botanical Garden and Piedmont Park, explore history at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, check out the eclectic bars along Edgewood Avenue and the awesome foodie scene – the divine bourbon pecan pie at Mary Mac’s Tea Room was a highlight!

Location: Georgia, Southeast USA | Vibe: energetic Southern city break | Avg temp: 51°F to 73°F

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the quirky boutique 4-star Hotel Clermont – especially the rotary phones with their old-school dials and the playful retro portrait of a quirky bubblegum blower above my bed!
• Getting served by robot waiters at Kura Revolving Sushi Bar – between tapping in orders, watching the LEDs flash and feeding empty plates into the return slot to a triumphant little jingle, I felt like I was playing an arcade game with sushi breaks!

13. Saguaro National Park, Arizona

I loved visiting this a stunning desert park this time of year as the weather was warm but more comfortable – and safer – than the very hot summer months. The desert had also come alive with colorful wildflowers and blossoming cholla and prickly pear cacti, and I loved exploring scenic trails while enjoying clear skies, more active wildlife, and striking mountain views without the intense summer heat or crowds!

I flew into Tucson International Airport, took a 30 minute car journey to Rincon Mountain District (East) and it made the perfect nature-focused long weekend. I hiked the scenic Valley View Overlook Trail, drove the Insta-worthy Cactus Forest Loop, gazed at towering saguaro cacti, and enjoyed exploring the rugged Rincon Mountain and cactus-filled Tucson Mountain Districts.

Location: Southern Arizona, Southwest USA | Vibe: adventurous desert escape | Avg temp: 50°F to 82°F

My highlights…

• Taking Instagram-worthy shots of the incredible Saguaro Forest at Golden Hour – I loved how the towering cacti glowed in the warm, honey-colored light and the silhouettes of distant mountains faded into dusty pink and lavender tones!

14. Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, Kansas

I was quietly captivated by the surreal, arid beauty of Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park on my March trip. Cooler temperatures and barely another visitor made exploring the trails a pleasure, with dramatic chalk formations rising beneath vast spring skies. The first wildflowers dotted the native grasses, and wildlife sightings added to the sense of the prairie waking after winter!

I arrived into Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, rented a car, drove 4 hours west to nearby Scott State Park (it was just 10 minutes from Little Jerusalem), where I camped for a nature-focused three nights. I hiked the Life on the Rocks Trail and Overlook Trail which were filled with dramatic Niobrara chalk formations and gazed out at views of the surrounding High Plains.

Location: Western Kansas, Central USA | Vibe: off-the-beaten-path adventure | Avg temp: 35°F to 65°F (April)

My highlights…

• Discovering fossilized giant clams and oysters embedded in the creamy Niobrara Chalk along the Life on the Rocks Trail was very surreal – I felt like I walking through the remnants of an ancient inland sea!

15. Sedona, Arizona

When I stopped over in this unique small desert town at this time of year, I found the mild temperatures to be just right—not too hot, not too cold—for enjoying all the outdoor adventures on offer! 

I loved that the red rock landscapes of Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Oak Creek Canyon looked especially striking under the spring light, the pretty wildflowers had begun to sprout along trails, and I could enjoy the area without the peak-season crowds! 

I was lucky enough to just catch the end of the interesting Sedona International Film Festival and I found out that the energetic Sedona Mountain Bike Festival, and the fun St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival also took place this month too.

I stopped at the unique and characterful 4-star Casa Sedona Inn for a wonderful three days on a 45 minute detour from my Route 66 trip via Flagstaff. That was plenty of time for me to explore the scenic trails of Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge, find out about the vortex energy at Bell Rock, take an awesome jeep tour through Broken Arrow Trail, and browse local art at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village!

Location: Northern Arizona, Southwest USA | Vibe: soulful desert escape | Avg temp: 42°F to 73°F 

My highlights…

• Trying forest bathing for the first time (inspired by Shinrin-yoku)! I wandered beneath towering pines, breathed in the earthy scent of moss, and felt a quiet, Zen-like stillness come over me! 

16. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

The second-largest canyon in the U.S really wowed me when I took a short break here in March! The mild spring temperatures made it perfect for hiking trails like the Lighthouse Trail, seeing the pretty wildflowers along the canyon floor, viewing the more active wildlife and enjoying the striking red and orange rock formations without the intense summer heat or crowds.

I arrived at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, then drove 30 minutes southeast to the park and stayed in the rustic Cow Camp Cabins for surreally beautiful three days.

I hiked the iconic Capitol Peak Trail and Lighthouse Trail in comfortably cool weather, admired colorful rock layers from the scenic overlooks, and explored the park’s rugged beauty in peace! 

Location: Texas Panhandle, Southern USA | Vibe: rugged Western adventure with a sense of solitude | Avg temp: 43°F to 74°F

My favorite highlights…

• Spotting a herd of protected Texas Longhorn cattle (which roamed freely here) grazing in the park’s open area – I loved watching their massive, curved horns silhouetted against the wide blue sky as they moved slowly through the tall grass! 

17. Palm Springs, California

When I needed a warm to hot sunny March vacation I headed to this funky desert resort city! This month brought some of the year’s best weather—warm but not as intense as the summer heat—making it perfect for lounging by the pool, hiking scenic trails in Indian Canyons, and enjoying the city’s stylish mid-century charm and lively outdoor festivals.

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous 4-star Fleur Noire Hotel – I loved the boutique vibe, the unique decor, the sisal rugs, the unique macramé accents and their light custom floral scent which infused the whole hotel! 

18. Arches National Park, Utah

With summer temperatures reaching up to 100 degrees in this red rock wonderland, I took a trip here during the spring instead. I discovered March was a fantastic choice because the cooler temperatures made the hiking trails much more enjoyable (and safer!), the spring light enhanced the red rock formations for stunning photos, and I could explore in peace before the peak-season crowds arrived.

I flew into Canyonlands Field Airport, drove 25 minutes and stopped over for an extraordinary weekend. I hiked to Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, enjoyed the very scenic drive past Balanced Rock and the Windows Section, and watched the sunset when the whole park was bathed in an ethereal orange glow! 

Location: Eastern Utah, Southwest USA | Vibe: adventurous desert getaway | Avg temp: 42°F to 69°F

My favorite highlights…

• Going on a free ranger-led tour through the maze-like Fiery Furnace – I squeezed through narrow sandstone canyons, spotted hidden arches, and learnt all about ancient sea beds and how fossilized marine life including brachiopods, crinoids, corals, and trilobites were all found there!