Did you know March is pretty awesome for traveling around the U.S.? There are tons of cool spots to visit, and with winter just about saying its goodbyes, you get fewer people and lots more color.
I’ve put together a little list for you—whether you’re into festivals, mountains, or sandy beaches. So let’s jump in and see where you can head this March!
March’s Travel Gems
Natural Wonders
March is the best time to get out and move, especially in spots that’ll make your jaw drop. Here’s a couple of places you go and see:
- Fairbanks, Alaska – If you’re into jaw-dropping lights, this is the place in March. The Northern Lights here? Total bucket list stuff. The chilly weather chills out, making it great for snowmobiling or skiing. And don’t miss the World Ice Art Championships. Yep, fancy ice sculptures galore. Also, give Pioneer Park a look—it’s got some history vibes too!
| Activity | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Northern Lights Viewing | $320 – $600 |
| Snowmobiling | $80 – $150 per hour |
| Ice Art Championships | $15 – $30 |
More March Adventures
Mammoth Lakes, California
March in Mammoth Lakes? It’s Adventure Central, minus the high price tag. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or a chill hike to soak up the scenery, you’re set.
Just go and get lost in those natural wonders!
>> Check Price & Total Cost of Visiting Yellowstone National Park
Cultural Festivals
March’s basically a fiesta month across the U.S., loaded with festivals and cultural magic. Here are some you don’t wanna miss:
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
For Texas-sized fun, NRG Park’s got it all from March 4-23, 2025. Rodeos, livestock, live concerts, carnival rides, and, yeah, Texas-style food!
Yee-haw your way to this family fest.
Attraction
General Admission: $15 – $20
Rodeo Tickets: $20 – $65
Carnival Rides: $5 – $10 per ride
St. Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival
If Celtic music and heritage give you the feels, mark March 8-9, 2025, on your calendar. Think bagpipes, Celtic dance, parades, and even the Highland Games!
Event
General Admission: $5 – $15
Grand Parade: Free
Highland Games: Included with admission
Charleston Wine + Food Festival
Perfect for food and wine lovers! Happening March 5-9, 2025, in Charleston, South Carolina, this festival dishes up Southern culinary brilliance with top chefs, winemakers, and cool workshops.
Event
General Admission: $100 – $200
Wine Tastings: $30 – $50
Cooking Workshops: $70 – $150
San Diego Latino Film Festival
Film fans, San Diego’s got you covered from March 6-16, 2025. Celebrating Latinx stories with movies, panel talks, art, and some chill live music.
Activity
Film Screenings: $12 – $15 per film
Panel Discussions: Free with screening ticket
Live Music: Free in select spots
So, March rolls out a full buffet of experiences, from small-town mysteries to big-city sparks, and all while keeping things wallet-friendly!
Budget-Friendly Destinations
Now let’s share some budget-friendly quirky spots and local treats that’ll keep both your spirit and your wallet dancing with joy.
Offbeat Adventures
Fairbanks, Alaska
March in Fairbanks? It’s like a winter wonderland on sale. The chill is easing up, which makes it perfect for catching the Northern Lights or hopping on a snowmobile.
And, don’t skip the World Ice Art Championships—those ice sculptures will blow your mind. Plus, grab your binoculars for a bit of wildlife spotting, or just take a relaxed stroll around Pioneer Park for a touch of local history.
Death Valley, California
Grab those hiking boots and a star map for Death Valley. March is prime time to explore the trails, spot some wild desert blooms, or camp out under a sky full of stars without getting toasted by the sun.
And if camping’s on your list, check out our guide for camping spots in SoCal to get you sorted.
| Adventure | Activities | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Fairbanks, Alaska | Northern Lights Spotting, Snow Adventures, Ice Art Show | $50 – $200 |
| Death Valley, California | Scenic Hiking, Moonlit Camping, Stargazing | $30 – $100 |
>> Check the price & total cost of visiting Death Valley Park
Local Experiences
Syracuse, New York
March in Syracuse? It’s full of Irish vibes thanks to St. Paddy’s Day parades and dance-offs. And if you’re into history, swing by the Erie Canal Museum or geek out at the Salt Museum.
Plus, why not enjoy some wine tasting in the Finger Lakes, or try a local cidery? Adds that cozy, homey touch.
Burlington, Vermont
Dust off that bike or watch some ice climbers scale up in Burlington. You can go to Vermont’s sweet side by checking out some syrup tapping, or drop by the ECHO Leahy Center to get in tune with nature.
And for something extra chill, take a brewery tour—it’s got local flavors that won’t drain your wallet.
| Destination | Local Experiences | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Syracuse, New York | Historic Museums, Festive Traditions, Tasting Local Drinks | $10 – $50 |
| Burlington, Vermont | Adventure Biking, Ice Climbing, Brewery Hangouts | $20 – $60 |
Hitting up these wallet-friendly spots in March means you can have an action-packed trip without the hefty price tag. Whether it’s ogling at ice art, wandering amongst wildflowers, or sipping on regional brews, there’s plenty to savor.
Craving more economical adventures? Peek at our picks for affordable places to travel in December.
