Where to Travel in the USA in March: The Best Destinations for a Perfect Spring Getaway

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By March, I am DONE with winter. Done with the cold, done with the gray skies, and definitely done with wearing seventeen layers just to check my mailbox.

If you’re reading this, I’m guessing you’re in the same boat.

Your soul is craving sunshine, or cherry blossoms, or maybe just a change of scenery that doesn’t involve scraping ice off your windshield.

But here’s the thing about March travel that nobody tells you: it’s one of the best-kept secrets in the travel world.

Spring breakers are flooding certain spots (which we’ll strategically avoid), but most places? They’re still in that sweet spot before the summer crowds hit.

Better prices, better weather than February, and zero elbowing through tourist hordes just to get a decent photo.

So what are the absolute best places to visit in March in the USA?

After years of traveling during this exact month, both for work and because I needed to escape reality, I’m giving you my top 10 destinations that deliver on weather, vibes, and experiences worth your hard-earned vacation days.

Discover the 10 best places to visit in March in the USA! From warm beaches in Miami to cherry blossoms in Charleston, find luxury destinations perfect for women over 40 who love to travel. Get insider tips on hotels, Black-owned restaurants, and crowd-free spring getaways.

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Why March Is Actually the Perfect Time to Travel

Let me get real with you for a second. I used to think March was this awkward month where winter wasn’t quite over and spring hadn’t fully sprung.

But after my third trip to Charleston in March (yeah, I’m that person), I realized I’d been sleeping on the best travel month of the year.

March is shoulder season in most of the country, which means:

• Hotel prices are 20-40% lower than peak summer rates (and trust me, as someone who appreciates a good luxury hotel, this matters)
• Restaurants are actually accessible – no three-week wait lists for that hot new spot
• The weather is chef’s kiss – warm but not “I’m melting” hot in places like Florida and Texas
• You can actually see the attractions without being part of a human traffic jam

And if you’re like me and love to travel solo or with your girlfriends, March feels safer and more relaxed because popular spots aren’t overwhelmed.

What You’ll Find in This Guide

I’m breaking down my 10 favorite March destinations with everything you actually need to know – not just the surface stuff. We’re talking:

• Real average temperatures (because “warm” means different things to different people)
• Luxury hotels that won’t break the bank during this time of year
• Black-owned restaurants and businesses to support in each city
• The activities worth your time and which ones to skip
• Personal stories from my own trips (including that time I almost got hypothermia on a San Diego beach – yes, really)

Who This Guide Is For

Listen, I created this guide for women like us over 40, with some disposable income, who want to travel well without the Instagram-influencer nonsense.

We’re not doing hostels or backpacking trips.

We want good hotels with comfortable beds, interesting cultural experiences, amazing food, and maybe a spa day or three.

I’m sharing spots where we’re not just welcomed but celebrated. Places where the culture is rich, the food is incredible, and you can see yourself reflected in the history and present-day community.

Ready to figure out where you’re going this March? Let’s dive in. And girl, start looking at flights now because these flight deals don’t last forever.

Quick Reference: Best March Destinations at a Glance

Best places to visit the USA in March

1) ORLANDO, FLORIDA 

Orlando is a warm place to visit in March, with many hotels, resorts, and theme parks. Florida is famous for its beautiful beaches, manatees, theme parks, and rides.

From water parks such as Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, Discovery Cove, and Aquatica to thrilling roller coasters like Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom Park, Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort, or The Incredible Hulk Coaster at Islands of Adventure Theme Park.

There are plenty of attractions for those wanting a quieter day out, too – Epcot Center has world-class shopping, great dining options, and educational and entertaining activities.

On the first Friday of every month, Leu Gardens offers an outdoor movie night where you can cuddle up on the lawn to watch a Hollywood flick.

Fill a picnic basket with food, wine, and beer, and stake out your spot on the lawn before watching a movie under the stars.

If you are a wine enthusiast, check out Quantum Leap Winery, which produces sustainable wines with grapes from around the world. Check their calendar, which is always packed with unique events, or join the wine club.

WHERE TO STAY IN ORLANDO:

WALDORF ASTORIA

The Waldorf Astoria Orlando is a hotel near Walt Disney World and features luxurious rooms and amenities, making it one of Florida’s top resorts.

Located in the southeast corner of Walt Disney World Resort, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando feels a lot like its New York counterpart.

Similar design elements (such as the iconic clock in the resort lobby) and notable dining establishments like Peacock Alley and the Bull & Bear Steakhouse are reproduced here.

But this Waldorf Astoria property is decidedly Floridian, with citrus hues accenting the decor and on-site facilities that make the most of the warm weather and sunshine.

The big draw here is the 18-hole championship golf course, ideally accompanied by the natural wetland backdrop. And the cabana-lined lap pool and the zero-entry pool are great for lounging and catching a tan.

Orlando is an excellent destination if you are looking for a warm place to visit in the USA in March.

2) AUSTIN, TEXAS

Austin is also an excellent spot for music lovers. The city hosts South by Southwest every year and is known as a place where indie bands often find success.

On top of that, there are some great tourist sites, including Lyndon B. Johnson’s childhood home, Zilker Park, and more. Two large riverboats on Lady Bird Lake are packed during the summer with tourists on bat-watching tours.

After the bats are long gone, the riverboats still offer incredible sunset, sightseeing, and moonlight cruise tours of Lady Bird Lake. I also suggest experiencing one of the fantastic kayaking tours offered on the lake.

Austin has become a culinary mecca for home cooking, Ethiopian, BBQ, and Cajun-style cuisine; check out these black-owned eateries’ that combine a mix of their own family’s recipes along with a style of their own.

• J. LEONARDI’S
• BIRD BIRD BISCUIT
• HOOVER’S COOKING
• KRAB KINGZ
• MR. CATFISH

WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTIN:

CANOPY BY HILTON

Located in the West 6th Market District, our hotel is less than a mile from the State Capitol, downtown eateries, and entertainment. The University of Texas and Zilker Metropolitan Park are within three miles.

Complimentary Canopy Bikes are perfect for a ride along the trails of Lady Bird Lake. Relax in a cabana at the elevated pool terrace with skyline views and a seasonal bar.

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3) Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is an iconic destination in Nevada and one of the country’s most visited cities.

If you are interested in taking a trip here for a girls’ trip, gamble at one of the many casinos, or you might even want to indulge in a little weed because it is now legal in Nevada.

Las Vegas offers memorable rides on the world’s highest Ferris wheel. It also gives you the chance to experience proper meals in an atmosphere saturated with original Picasso art and race against pro drivers in prohibited cars.

One of my favorite things to do in Vegas is to check out Cirque du Soleil, the world’s largest producer of contemporary circus.

The Circus of the Sun offers both locals and visitors in Sin City the best acrobatic display and circus-related treats.

If you are looking to get off the strip, check out. The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – a few miles from the city – is a beautiful stretch of the natural Mojave Desert.

You can enjoy nature’s wonders by driving through the Canyon, hiking along paths, or riding your bike along the scenic route.

You can’t go to Vegas without taking a sneak peek into Planet 13. It’s housed in a 112,000-square-foot building, so there’s plenty to see!

Not only will you come to the biggest dispensary in Las Vegas, but you’ll also see artistic features found nowhere else in the world.

On top of the roof, there are even 15-foot-tall neon lotus flowers made of metal stems and acrylic leaves.  In front of the building, you’ll see an 18-foot outdoor water feature with colorful LED lights and fog for a glowing effect.

This glowing effect can be seen from 65,000 hotel rooms facing the location, making Las Vegas another great destination in March in the USA.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas: Waldorf Astoria

The luxury, non-gaming hotel is right on the Las Vegas Strip, at the entrance to the CityCenter Complex.

A sky bridge connects us to The Shops at Crystals, and we’re a half-mile from the T-Mobile Arena. The hotel offers gourmet dining, three pools, and an award-winning spa. 

Their concierge is on hand to assist with reservations and excursions.

4) San Diego, California 

With mild weather, Southern California is an excellent destination for travel during March. San Diego, located on San Diego Bay, has many popular tourist destinations within driving distance of one another.

Some of these are Sea World, Mission Beach, and Coronado Island.

The U.S.S Midway Museum is also a popular attraction here, which you will not want to miss.

Another major landmark in San Diego is Balboa Park, which was founded in 1868 and contains over 2000 acres of land with beautiful gardens and cultural museums, such as museums of art and natural history, as well as an IMAX theatre and zoo.

Whether hiking along the sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, walking through the frothy surf of Coronado Beach, or admiring the postcard-worthy scenery at La Jolla Cove, you’ll fall in love with San Diego.

Though it’s tempting to spend your whole vacation exploring, don’t forget to carve out some time for a San Diego history lesson: America’s Finest City proudly shows off its military and maritime heritage with two well-regarded (and highly interactive) museums.

It’s also home to many beaches, so if you are looking for warm places to visit or places where you can visit in March (like spring break!), then I highly recommend looking into San Diego as one of the best places to visit in March in the USA.

Where to Stay in San Diego: Carte Hotel

This brand-new hotel rises 16 stories above the neighborhood a few blocks east of Waterfront Park and within walking distance of all the popular restaurants in Little Italy.

Soak in bay views during the day at Above Ash Social, the rooftop restaurant, or come back in the evening to relax by a fire pit or in front of the enormous TV.

 

5) Charleston, South Carolina 

If your idea of a good time involves great food, scenery, and history all wrapped up in one, consider heading to Charleston for a taste of everything in the Lowcountry.

Every year, Charleston is voted one of America’s top cities.

For good reason: you can head out on a whale-watching tour or spend an afternoon touring historic landmarks like Fort Sumter and Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s former home.

Don’t miss Church Street — it’s so charming that it was named one of America’s Greatest Streets by AARP Magazine — lined with specialty shops and restaurants where you can get a taste of traditional South Carolina cuisines like Lowcountry boils, shrimp & grits, chicken & waffles and more.

Something is going on almost every weekend, including Blues Fest, Spoleto Festival in the USA, and Winefest (yes, there are wine fests in Charleston!)

One of my favorite things in Charleston is taking a Gullah Tour.  These tours take visitors through the city’s historical sites, offering insight into Charleston’s Black history.

Gullah is the language spoken (and still is) by the area’s first Black residents.

If you like food, don’t miss out on savoring some fantastic local cuisine. Hannibal’s Kitchen is a family-owned establishment serving Charleston for over 40 years.

The restaurant is best known for its seafood dishes served at breakfast. You can choose dishes like sautéed crab over grits or unique Charleston dishes like a fried shark over grits.

And if you like great beaches, take a trip to one of Charleston’s many beautiful beaches on Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island.

Where to Stay in Charleston: Hotel Emeline

Hotel Emeline is an utter metamorphosis of the former DoubleTree on this spot, the only constant being the historic front door.

Emeline’s spacious foyer feels more like a hip living room than the lobby, with a boisterous Motown soundtrack.

Walk up the center steps to check in, where you are handed a potent punch cocktail (or house lemonade if you wish).

As you sip, take a sidetrack down the discrete wheelchair ramp to locate a hidden curio cabinet of Lowcountry treasures: taxidermy shorebird, turtle shell, barnacle-covered sea glass, cicada, guinea feathers, and much more.

 

6) Memphis, Tennessee 

The weather starts to warm up around March in Memphis. Check out Beale Street, also known as the birthplace of rock and roll. The neighborhood’s nightclubs, bars, and music venues have attracted people for years.

It’s one of the few US cities with a majority-Black population, and its residents are doing what it takes to ensure our culture is the city’s highlight. 

Memphis is home to icons like Ida B. Wells, Morgan Freeman, Aretha Franklin, Isaac Hayes, BB King, and Leslie Jones, who have all called Memphis home.

Music is Memphis, and Memphis is music. Plan a visit to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music to see how Stax Records artists have paved the way for Black musicians.

Right in the middle of Soulsville, USA, and adjacent to the Stax Music Academy, you’ll get an in-depth history of the origins of Memphis soul.

Don’t leave Soulsville without experiencing some of the best BBQs in Memphis.  My favorite BBQ spot is Cozy Corner, a black-owned BBQ spot featured on Dives, Diners, and Drive-ins.

Where to Stay in Memphis: Canopy by Hilton

Canopy by Hilton is the best hotel in downtown Memphis. Creative, atmospheric, and historically layered, Canopy Hotel is located in the city’s oldest area and is within walking distance of America’s most iconic road, Beale Street.

You can walk everywhere from Canopy by Hilton, including Beale Street, I AM Man Plaza, MLK Reflection Park, Ernest Withers Museum, First Baptist Church, and many more attractions.

The hotel is next to Autozone Park, a half-mile from FedEx Forum Arena.

The Memphis Music Hall of Fame is five minutes away, and they are under a mile from the Mississippi River Park and the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.

7) Tempe, Arizona

In addition to being next to one of America’s premier resorts, Tempe boasts some of its warmest temperatures.

With an average high temperature of 73 degrees Fahrenheit, you can expect your days in Tempe to be warm, sunny, and full of adventure.

Spend some time hiking Camelback Mountain or exploring Wrigley Mansion. The surrounding cities of Scottsdale and Phoenix offer many entertainment options for even those with limited time.

And if you want to do some shopping during your trip, you won’t have any trouble finding it either.

Try out Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles when it comes time for dinner. It was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives for good reason! Tempe is one of my favorite places to visit in the USA in March.

Where to Stay in Tempe: Canopy by Hilton

Cradled in the heart of Tempe, The Canopy Hotel is thoughtfully designed while taking direction from the curated fine arts and artisan community surrounding it.

The palette focuses on plucking notes from the area, working with native dramatic natural features.

Local stone, tile, wood, plaster, copper mining, and glass work together to promote a sense of modern elegance and intimacy while paying homage to the essential natural elements distinctive to the city.

This Lifestyle Hotel will invite the persona of Tempe indoors by intricately combining the stunning craftmanship of local creative talent and a scheme of rich crimsons and deep golds pulled straight from the sundrenched Vistas of Arizona.

Tempe, Phoenix, and Sedona are perfect destinations to visit in March in the USA because you might die from heat exhaustion at any other time of the year! Trust me!

Click here if the Canopy Tempe is right for you.

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8) Palm Springs,  California 

Often referred to as The Desert Jewel, Palm Springs has perfect weather in March, from its resort-style golf courses, hot springs, and spas to world-class dining and shopping.

And for art lovers and culture lovers, check out an exhibition at one of its many museums or galleries. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway makes for a great day trip from Los Angeles.

It is a fun ride that will take you up thousands of feet into Mount San Jacinto State Park and give you amazing views of Southern California’s Coachella Valley and desert mountain ranges.

And during springtime, it will bring you into bloom time with wildflower fields surrounding it when you are at the top elevation!

Where to Stay in Palm Springs: Ritz Ritz-Carlton

Set above the Coachella Valley, The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage offers an elevated experience of a timeless destination.

The modern design invites connections with the desert, from stunning valley views at The Edge Steakhouse to holistic spa rituals inspired by the land, while the storied past of Palm Springs complements the resort’s elegant luxury.

Enjoy spacious accommodations, an exclusive Club Lounge, and more than 30,000 sq ft of event space.

Nestled into the hillside with views over the valley, this tranquil Palm Springs retreat channels the energy of its surroundings into a restorative escape.

Stone and wood infuse the sleekly designed architecture with a sense of place, while the spa menu incorporates indigenous botanicals into massages, facials, and body treatments.

With 16 treatment rooms, many featuring private terraces with breathtaking views, the hotel spa offers plunge pools, spaces for yoga and meditation, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a full-service salon, and a retail boutique.

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9) New Orleans, Louisiana 

New Orleans is a fantastic place to visit in March, just before Mardi Gras! The New Orleans Mardi Gras festivities start on the last couple of weekends of March.

The warm weather also makes it an excellent time for festivals and outdoor events. It can get rather hot in New Orleans, so if you don’t like heat or want somewhere less touristy, consider visiting other cities on my list instead.

However, if you want something a little different, head over to New Orleans during its carnival season—it’s one of our best places to visit in March!

So many festivals and events are happening during March that it’s hard not to find something fun and exciting! From Mardi Gras-inspired parades, krewe balls, king cake eating contests, and much more, there is always something going on in NOLA.

Spend an evening walking around all of Jackson Square and take a stroll down Bourbon Street.

There is also plenty of great food, including beignets at Cafe du Monde (on Decatur Street) if you want to satisfy your sweet tooth! After dinner, try local drink specialties like hurricanes.

No matter how you spend time in New Orleans, we guarantee it will be a memorable experience.

Where to Stay in New Orleans: The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel

Operating as a hotel since 1893, our building was once home to Louisiana’s legendary governor, Huey P. Long. Today, we feature historic New Orleans memorabilia, a luxury spa, and a rooftop pool.

Canal and Bourbon streets are around the corner, and we’re within a mile of the French Quarter. Discover authentic local experiences with our concierge. 

You can easily imagine the stars promenading down the grand marble lobby, with rows of crystal chandeliers floating above the tiled floors, anchored by the Mystery Lady Timepiece and Conical Clock.

Unsurprisingly, this is a tourist attraction; staff here are trained in privacy. From the plush 504 guest rooms to the fine dining to the historic lounge, this hotel is a New Orleans institution for a reason.

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10) Miami, Florida

Miami Beach is just as hot and sunny during March as it is at any other time of year.

When you’re ready for some sun, visit Miami Beach’s famous South Beach and walk down Ocean Drive or Lincoln Road to look at some works by Andy Warhol.

The neighborhood also has plenty of shops, restaurants, and things to do that are perfect if you need a break from Florida’s beaches.

And don’t forget about white-sand activities like body surfing and parasailing! Pack your sunscreen before heading out; Miami averages 84 degrees.

Need even more reasons to visit? Head to South Pointe Park and photograph yourself next to its iconic sign. Or head over to Haulover Beach Park and swim amongst sea turtles.

Where to Stay in Miami: Four Seasons

Rising 70 stories above the skyline in one of the city’s tallest buildings, the Hotel is in the heart of bustling Brickell, downtown Miami’s financial and cultural center.

Unwind beneath the Florida sun on our two-acre rooftop pool terrace, surrounded by palm trees and seventh-floor views, or stop in at EDGE Steak & Bar for modern cuts and seafood served with local flair before heading out to explore the eclectic neighborhoods that surround the bay.

There is so much more to our city than meets the eye, so why not come and discover – or rediscover – Miami with the Four Seasons?

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Why March Really Is the Sweet Spot for Luxury Travel

Here’s what I want you to remember: March is genuinely one of the best months to travel in the USA, especially if you’re looking for that perfect combination of great weather, fewer crowds, and better hotel deals.

While everyone else is waiting for summer vacation or dealing with spring break families at the theme parks, you can be sipping wine on a Charleston veranda or lounging poolside at a luxury hotel in Palm Springs for a fraction of peak season prices.

These warm-weather destinations in March offer something most people miss: the shoulder season advantage.

You get incredible March weather destinations without the July heat exhaustion or the December holiday rush. And for those of us over 40 who’ve earned the right to travel well? That matters.

Finding the Perfect March Getaway for You

Whether you’re planning a solo female traveler adventure, organizing the ultimate girls trip destination in March, or just need to escape your everyday reality, there’s a destination on this list calling your name:

If you want warm beaches and sunshine, Miami and San Diego are your spots, both of which offer gorgeous beach weather without being unbearably hot.

If you’re craving culture and history: Charleston and Memphis deliver Southern charm, incredible Black history, and some of the best food you’ll ever eat in your life. Trust me on the BBQ.

If you need pure relaxation: Palm Springs luxury March getaways and Tempe’s spa scene will have you feeling like a new woman. Book that massage. You deserve it.

If you want adventure and energy: Austin’s live music scene, Las Vegas shows, and New Orleans’ Mardi Gras festivities will keep your calendar packed.

Before You Go: Your Action Plan

Here’s what I want you to do right now (seriously, open another tab):

1. Pick your destination – Go with your gut. Which one made you pause and think “yes, that’s it”?
2. Check flight prices – March can have some surprise deals, especially mid-week. Set up alerts if you’re flexible on dates.
3. Book your hotel early – Those luxury March hotel deals I mentioned? They go fast once people figure out how good March is.
4. Grab my safety checklist – I created this specifically to help you plan your trip without the stress. It literally takes less time than binge-watching your favorite show.
5. Start a packing list – What to pack for destinations in March varies wildly. San Diego beach weather is different from Memphis in early spring, so check those average temperatures.

The Best Girls Trip Destinations in March

Can we talk about girls’ trips for a second? March is PERFECT for them.

Spring break alternatives for adults mean you can avoid the college crowd, prices are reasonable so everyone can participate, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities without melting.

I’ve done Austin with my crew (the live music scene is unmatched), Charleston for a more refined vibe, and Vegas when we just wanted to let loose.

All were phenomenal March trips.

Making the Most of Quieter Destinations During Spring Break

Here’s an insider tip: while families flock to Orlando theme parks during spring break, places like Palm Springs, Tempe, and Memphis stay relatively quiet.

If you’re looking for spring break alternatives for adults or just want to avoid the chaos, focus on the non-theme park destinations on this list.

You’ll thank me when you’re peacefully enjoying brunch instead of standing in a two-hour line for a roller coaster.

So here’s my challenge to you: Pick one destination from this list. Just one. Look at flights.

Check out those luxury hotels I recommended. Start planning. Because the best time to visit these March weather destinations is, well, March – and it’ll be here before you know it.

Frequently Asked Questions About March Travel in the USA

Related Posts You’ll Love

• 10 Best Places to Visit in December
• Memphis Best BBQ Guide: Top BBQ Places in Tennessee
• 10 Places to Visit in October
• Best Winter Destinations for Couples

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Last Updated: March 2025

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