Many parts of the United States are beginning to thaw out after a lengthy winter in March. March is my favorite month because of the first thaw and the appearance of wildflowers in the countryside. Granted, there may still be some snow in the northern states, but this time of year usually brings with it warmer temperatures.
The diversity of weather and landscapes found in the US is astounding. This incredible list of the top destinations in the USA for March has a lot to offer, especially because March is a month of transition everywhere. Await breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, northern lights, and wildflower blooms.
The Best American Destinations in March
1. Big Island, Hawai’i
The Big Island is BMTM’s favorite destination, no secret. Hiking, diving, snorkeling, and so much more can all be done here, making it one of the greatest locations for outdoor experiences. Given that Hawaii is one of the most popular travel locations, you might want to go there in March, which is a great time to visit the islands during shoulder season (February to May).
You’ll appreciate the warmer, drier weather in addition to the reduced crowds. Moreover, March is the greatest month of the year to watch humpback whales! Remember that if Easter and spring break happen in March, you should avoid them because the cost will increase dramatically.
2. Fairbanks, Alaska
March is the greatest month to observe the northern lights in Fairbanks, one of the top spots in Alaska for this natural phenomenon. It’s a great time to get outside and enjoy one of the numerous things to do in Fairbanks as the days get progressively longer and the weather rises. (Although it is warming up, those of you traveling from abroad may find that, even in March, it still feels like the dead of winter—peak daytime temperatures hover around 35 degrees.) Another reason why March is a great time to visit Fairbanks is that travel and lodging costs are typically lower in the winter and early spring.
The World Ice Art Championship is a major benefit of traveling to Fairbanks this month. Because it features the world’s top ice carvers, it is unlike any other art competition. It is a sight to behold.
3. Oregon Road Trip
In March, Oregon’s serene landscape comes to life after a long, hard winter. Traveling by car is the greatest way to experience Oregon’s stunning scenery in spring, from Cannon Beach to Crater Lake to Bend and Mount Hood. This time of year, the temperature is still cool, but there are still a lot of tourists, so there’s a high possibility you’ll have many stops to yourself. Furthermore, lodging costs are reduced during low season, and who doesn’t like to travel for less money?
4. Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, California
The California Poppy Reserve in Antelope Valley has a colorful blossoming season that lasts from late February to early May. March is the best time to visit to witness the full grandeur of these vivid orange blossoms. Situated just 67 miles north of Los Angeles, the reserve offers complete seclusion from the city’s hustle and bustle, making it an ideal complement to any outdoor-loving Southern California camping excursion.
The best time to see poppies is in March because strong winds in April could blow them away. But before you leave, make sure you’re ready for the wind and refrain from picking any flowers.
5. Indian Wells, California
Visit Indian Wells in March and you’ll get the best of both worlds—warm weather and views of the distant Santa Rosa Mountains still covered in snow. This opulent location in the region, which is only a short drive from Palm Springs, is renowned for its stunning landscape.
If you love tennis, March is the best month to visit because the city is home to the BNP Paribas Open, which takes place at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden from March 7–20 this year. Because the typically scorching temperatures are more moderate, now is also a terrific time to explore Indian Wells Canyon.
6. Las Vegas, Nevada
Are you considering a road trip throughout Nevada? Learn more about these amazing surroundings and Nevada’s best-kept secrets here. Contrary to popular assumption, Las Vegas offers much more than just a huge party scene. It’s a great place to start exploring the national parks of Nevada, California, and Arizona if you get beyond the casinos, enormous nightclubs, and Elvis impersonators. The Mojave National Preserve is only an hour away, Death Valley is only two hours away, and the Grand Canyon is around two hours away.
You may explore the city and nearby natural places, such as Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is only 30 minutes away, in comfort thanks to the moderate temperatures and clear skies. Take a day trip to Emerald Cave by kayak on the Colorado River or visit the Hoover Dam. If you want to stay in Las Vegas, think about seeing a live performance or going while the Immersive Van Gogh exhibit is still open.
7. Tucson, Arizona
This is the desert paradise you’ve been longing for after a long winter at your home base! Tucson offers a plethora of outdoor experiences, diverse springtime blossoms, and untamed scenery. March is also the perfect month to visit Saguaro National Park and other wonderful sights in Tucson because it has sunny skies and highs of 75 degrees.
March is a great time to visit the city because near the end of the month is the Oro Valley Spring Festival of the Arts. This event is an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with Tucson’s flourishing artistic community. After perusing, visit the Botanical Gardens to appreciate the splendor of succulents and desert cactus.
8. Mystic, Utah’s Hot Springs
Mystic Hot Springs, located in what seems like the middle of nowhere, is a wonderful rustic paradise to visit in March. These year-round warm springs are perfect for a romantic dip on those chilly early spring evenings. With sprinklings of wildflowers all around, the surrounding terrain is also growing greener around this time of year, making it the ideal scene to take in while you indulge in a springtime soak.
9. Moab, Utah
If you’ve ever visited Moab in the summer, you know that the temperature may reach unbearable levels and that the neighboring national parks provide very little shade. Because the springtime provides perfect weather for touring Moab, you should think about visiting this red-rock haven in March.
Some of the most striking natural locations in Utah may be accessed from Moab, such as Dead Horse Point State Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Arches National Park. You’ll also be able to avoid the summertime throngs by traveling in March (except during spring break). Are you set to embark on your Moab adventure?
10. Kirkham, Idaho’s Hot Springs
Snow may still be on the ground in March in Idaho because of how lengthy the winters are there. You should still visit Kirkham, one of the state’s top hot springs, despite this. This magical location is perfect in March, although it does tend to grow crowded in the summer. March is when you’re most likely to have it all to yourself.
Check out this comprehensive guide to Kirkham Hot Springs before you visit, and think about seeing all the other incredible hot springs in Idaho, if you do manage to make it here this month.