12 Best Places to Visit in March for Epic Adventures

Red rock arches glowing under the open sky make March a great time to explore this Utah wonder. Cooler temperatures and fewer visitors than in summer mean you can enjoy the trails without the scorching heat or heavy crowds. Early spring also brings pockets of wildflowers that brighten the desert landscape.

Arches is best known for its stone formations, over 2,000 of them, ranging from giant arches to spindly towers. In March, hiking is comfortable, stargazing is exceptional thanks to crisp desert nights, and nearby Moab offers an outdoor base for exploring more of Utah’s canyon country.

Zion is one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., but in March, you can experience its towering sandstone cliffs without the heavy summer crowds. Early spring brings comfortable daytime temperatures, snowmelt-fed waterfalls, and blossoming cottonwoods along the Virgin River. It’s an ideal time for both iconic hikes and quieter corners of the park.

The park’s famous slot canyons and towering rock walls make it a haven for adventure seekers. With shuttles starting later in the month, you can often drive your own car through the canyon in early March, which is a rare treat that makes exploring more flexible.

Bryce Canyon looks otherworldly in March, when lingering snow dusts the amphitheaters of orange and red hoodoos. The contrast of snow against the spindly rock formations makes this one of the most photogenic times to visit. With crisp air and fewer crowds, you’ll find hiking and stargazing both more relaxing than in the busy summer.

While smaller than Zion, Bryce delivers equally dramatic views and a quieter pace. Its high elevation means it stays cooler, so March still feels like winter, so pack warm layers. Trails may be snowy or icy, but that only adds to the adventure.

March is one of the best months to experience Joshua Tree, when daytime temperatures hover in the comfortable 70s and the desert is dotted with wildflowers. The park’s surreal landscapes, which include giant boulders, twisted Joshua trees, and rugged mountains, make for fun hikes and stargazing nights.

Pairing a visit with Palm Springs adds a balance of adventure and relaxation. The city’s retro-modern vibe, hot springs, and luxury resorts provide the perfect contrast to days spent scrambling over desert rocks and wandering through cactus gardens.

With mild weather and less people, San Diego is a fantastic March getaway. Temperatures are pleasant enough for beach walks, while the city’s cultural attractions make it a versatile spot for any type of traveler. Early spring also means blooming gardens in Balboa Park and opportunities for whale watching along the coast.

San Diego blends outdoor adventure with a relaxed coastal vibe. You can spend your mornings kayaking near sea caves, afternoons exploring museums, and evenings enjoying fish tacos and live music by the water.

San Francisco in March is a mix of sunshine, fog, and the occasional rain shower, but that’s part of its charm. The city’s hills and waterfront views feel fresh in early spring, with cherry blossoms blooming in Japantown and less visitors at the major sights compared to summer.

The cooler temperatures make it comfortable for long walks across the Golden Gate Bridge or through the city’s diverse neighborhoods. From Chinatown to the laid-back vibe of Ocean Beach, March offers plenty of ways to explore without the heavy summer crowds.

Few cities celebrate March like New Orleans. Depending on the year, Mardi Gras may fall in late February or March, bringing parades, costumes, and street music that fill the French Quarter. Even after the official festivities, the city keeps buzzing with live jazz, Creole cuisine, and a festive spirit that makes every evening feel like a celebration.

March is also a sweet spot for weather: warm but not humid, perfect for wandering peaceful streets, exploring colorful architecture, and enjoying the food scene. Whether it’s crawfish boils, po’boys, or powdered sugar-dusted beignets, eating your way through the city is half the adventure.

March is one of the most comfortable times to visit Las Vegas. The weather is warm but not scorching, making it perfect for strolling the Strip during the day and catching shows at night. With events like March Madness bringing extra energy, the city feels alive without the sweltering summer heat.

Las Vegas is also a fantastic March base for outdoor adventures. Within an hour’s drive, you can hike red rock canyons, kayak the Colorado River, or even make a side trip to nearby national parks like Death Valley or Zion. It’s a destination that offers both neon-fueled nights and wild desert days.

If the Northern Lights are on your bucket list, March is one of the best times to see them in Iceland. Nights are still long enough for aurora viewing, while days are getting brighter and slightly warmer. March is also shoulder season, meaning lower prices and fewer tourists compared to summer.

From glacier hikes to soaking in geothermal hot springs, Iceland delivers must-see adventure. Snow still lingers on the ground, creating dramatic contrasts with volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and coastal cliffs. It’s a month where winter and spring collide, giving travelers a mix of both worlds.

March is one of Japan’s most celebrated months, marking the start of cherry blossom season. While peak bloom varies by location, late March often brings the first waves of blossoms to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, transforming parks and temples into pastel landscapes. Beyond the flowers, the weather is mild and comfortable for exploring cities and countryside alike.

Travelers in March will find a balance of cultural festivals, seasonal foods, and lighter crowds compared to April, when blossoms reach their peak. It’s a time to enjoy Japan’s mix of tradition and modernity, from serene gardens to buzzing city streets.

March is one of the best times to visit Mexico, offering warm, dry weather and vibrant cultural life. In Mexico City, early spring brings clear skies, making it perfect for exploring plazas, museums, and street food markets. Oaxaca, further south, shines with colorful streets, music, and culinary traditions that are best experienced outdoors this time of year.

Both destinations showcase Mexico’s blend of history and modern energy. From Aztec ruins to mezcal tastings, March offers plenty of ways to experience culture, food, and adventure without the summer crowds.

March falls during late summer and early autumn in New Zealand’s South Island, making it an outstanding time for outdoor adventures. Days are still warm and long, but cooler evenings signal the beginning of harvest season in wine country. Fewer visitors compared to peak summer mean easier bookings and more relaxed travel.

The South Island is all about dramatic landscapes, from fjords and alpine peaks to rolling vineyards. Whether you’re hiking, cruising, or sipping pinot noir straight from the barrel, March gives you a perfect blend of adventure and comfort.