The 8 Best States to Visit in March

1. Arizona

With temperatures reaching into the high 70s, Arizona brings an early escape from winter. Hike in Sedona, visit the Grand Canyon or stay at a spa resort with a dessert backdrop. Visiting in March is the best way to beat the desert heat. Visiting in March is not only a warm escape, this time of year cactus flowers bloom, and there are various festivals ranging from food to art to wine! Arizona spring means baby animals, like deer and javelina; but it’s best to keep a safe distance!

2. Louisiana

From food to music, culture, and history, there are endless things to do in Louisiana. Going to New Orleans in March means missing the Mardi Gras crowds while still enjoying temperatures in the 70s for one of the city’s spring festivals. Tour the New Orleans food scene or explore the bayou on an airboat.

3. Colorado

Even though the weather is warming up, March is Colorado’s snowiest month. Colorado has the best of both worlds this time of year, with temperatures reaching 60 degrees and some of the best skiing of the season. Colorado also has four national parks, beautiful mountain towns, and five major cities. Ski, go on a brewery tour or, hike a 14er. Between Denver Restaurant Week, winter sports, and St. Patrick’s Day, March is a great time to visit Colorado!

4. Georgia

Not too hot nor too cold, March is a perfect time to wander around Georgia‘s beautiful historic cities. This slower travel month brings peaceful southern evenings to meander through the streets, museums, and restaurants. Visiting in March means flowers like the famous azaleas and camellia begin to bloom, and the oak trees start to bud with green leaves.

5. California

California is home to the most national parks in the country, offering nine beautiful and unique options. Top that off with over 800 miles of coastline and temperatures reaching the 70s, bringing comfortable weather throughout much of the state. San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego each serve as vibrant cultural hubs. Additionally, you can indulge in a wine tour in Napa Valley.

6. Illinois

Winter days start to ease up in March, but you’ll still need warm coats and hats for The Windy City. Ahead of the summer crowds, you can visit the renowned Art Institute and Chicago Theater or try a famous Chicago dog and deep-dish pizza! Spend your days taking a cruise on the river, eating your way through a food tour, or catching a game at Wrigley Field.

Dyeing the river green for Chicago’s world-famous St. Patrick’s Day celebration is a must-see, with parades, music, and dancing throughout the streets!

7. New York

Spring is a beautiful time in New York. The weather is warming up, but the summer crowds haven’t yet descended on the City That Never Sleeps, so you can score that perfect spot in some of their fantastic restaurants and bars. New York City has the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the world, with over two million attendees.

Upstate New York is also one of the very few climates in the world that can produce ice wine. Every March, the famous Finger Lakes hosts their Ice Wine and Culinary festival.

8. Washington D.C

While not technically a state, Washington, D.C. in March is unmatched. This time of year the weather is perfect and the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom. As you stroll the streets visiting famous monuments and museums, you’ll be showered by beautiful pink petals. D.C. is also home to 74 awesome museums, including 17 of the 20 Smithsonian museums.

In late March, D.C. hosts the Bloomaroo Festival, an annual celebration of spring and cherry blossoms. Enjoy fireworks, street vendors, music, and family-friendly fun along The Wharf.