20 Best Places to Travel in March

Spring arrives in March, but depending on where you are, it can still feel like winter — or an early summer. Whether you’re looking for a warm-weather escape from chilly temperatures at home or a late-season ski trip, we’ve got you covered. From sunny Caribbean islands to snowy ski resorts, we’ve rounded up 20 of the best places to travel in March in the U.S. and around the world so you can start planning your next getaway.

Carlsbad, California

Thousands of visitors will head for this city by the Pacific as the Carlsbad Flower Fields open on March 1 with 55 acres of colorful Giant Tecolote ranunculus in bloom. Visitors can also stroll through Carlsbad’s downtown, dine at excellent restaurants, visit Carlsbad Aquafarm for fresh oysters, and shop at local boutiques. “March in Carlsbad is a spectacular time to enjoy our coastal playground, with sun-drenched days at the beach, stunning sunsets, the annual burst of colors at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, and family-friendly activities including Legoland California Resort,” Kim Sidoriak, president and CEO of Visit Carlsbad, tells Travel + Leisure. This beach town recently welcomed all-day restaurant, bakery, and bar, Wildland, located in a former boogie board factory (so Southern California!).

Where to Stay: Park Hyatt Aviara features a kids pool with waterslides, an adults pool, a golf course, superb dining, and the new Miraval Life in Balance Spa. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is set on 400 acres with golf, pools, and a spa. The only hotel on the sand in Carlsbad, Beach Terrace offers oceanfront fire pits. The Legoland Hotel and Legoland Castle Hotel are steps from the park.

Austin, Texas

The annual eight-day South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference and Festival arrives at the Austin Convention Center on March 7, with technology, culture, film, music, comedy, and notable speakers. Rodeo Austin is in town from March 14-29 with live music and great food. And whenever you visit, there are  always plenty of things to do in Austin, from visiting museums to swimming in nearby springs.

Where to Stay: New boutique property, Frame Hotel — SoCo, features 20 suites with private lanais, and sister boutique, Frame Hotel — Treehouse, offers seven luxury rooms and nature-inspired design. Hotel ZaZa offers a convenient downtown location, and Thompson Austin features a rooftop pool with cabanas.

Denver, Colorado

In March, the Mile High City is still chilly with daytime temperatures reaching the mid-60s and colder nights. It’s a beautiful time to be outdoors, and nearby, Colorado’s ski towns are still covered in snow. With museums, theater, breweries, and concerts at Red Rock Amphitheater, there are dozens of fun things to do in Denver at any time of year. A sure sign of spring is the beginning of baseball season as Denver welcomes the Colorado Rockies back to Coors Field. 

Where to Stay: Topping the 2024 World’s Best Awards list of hotels in Denver, The Rally Hotel is steps from the ballpark. Other options include the Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver, Urban Cowboy Denver, and Hotel Clio, a Luxury Collection Hotel, in the Cherry Creek North neighborhood.

Related: This Colorado City Sits One Mile Above Sea Level — and It’s a Gateway to the Rocky Mountains

Clearwater Beach, Florida

With one of the best beaches in the U.S., Clearwater Beach is an idyllic destination once the weather begins to warm up in March. The annual Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival returns in early April with its famous sand sculptures and family entertainment. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, historic Cleveland Street District, dolphin cruises, miles of beaches, and sunny weather in the high 70s make March in Clearwater Beach perfect for families and spring breakers. 

Where to Stay: The beachfront JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa offers one, two, and three-bedroom residences. Nearby in St. Petersburg, The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, dating to 1925, features renovated guest rooms, golf, tennis, and a marina.

Chicago, Illinois

Although spring arrives in March, the cold weather hangs on a bit longer in the Windy City, so bundle up and duck into one of Chicago’s best museums to warm up (and enjoy). St. Patrick’s Day is a big occasion, when the Chicago River turns emerald green and the official Irish Parade takes place. Chicago’s food is legendary — from deep-dish pizza to five-star dining. After exploring downtown, I suggest a relaxing escape to the Deer Path Inn, a short train ride away in Lake Forest. “March offers a chance to slow down and enjoy the inn’s cozy charm in anticipation of spring. Guests can unwind in the warmth of our English-inspired Garden Room while savoring an elegant afternoon tea — a lovely way to recharge before the busy days of spring and summer,” says general manager James Barnett.

Where to Stay: 21c Museum Hotel Chicago is set in the River North neighborhood, and The St. Regis Chicago is another luxe option. The elegant Deer Path Inn is reminiscent of a 15th-century Tudor mansion.

Park City, Utah

Spring is a gorgeous time for skiing in Park City, with snow throughout March (and even later some years). Conveniently located less than an hour from Salt Lake City International Airport, the charming downtown is almost as much of a draw as the snowy slopes. Restaurants, bars, shops, galleries, and a history museum make exploring fun after a day of skiing. There’s also snowboarding, snowmobiling, a toboggan-style mountain coaster, zip line, and ski lessons for all ages. Trails and slopes for all levels are available, from beginner to expert. 

Where to Stay: There are several wonderful hotels in Park City, including The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection, Pendry Park City, and Waldorf Astoria Park City. Montage Deer Valley offers ski-in/ski-out access at Deer Valley Resort, and Washington Schoolhouse is a historic boutique.

Lake Oconee, Georgia

Located in Greensboro about 75 miles east of Atlanta, Lake Oconee is a serene getaway in central Georgia. Boating, golf, hiking, and nearby Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds offer many ways to enjoy the early spring weather and gorgeous outdoors. At Sandy Creek, there’s fishing, kayaking, off-roading, archery, and sporting clay shooting. In the historic downtown, visitors will find antique stores, boutiques, restaurants, and a walking tour for those who want to discover more about Greensboro’s past. Six championship golf courses and the Kingdom at Lake Oconee provide golfers with opportunities for play, practice, equipment, and lessons. The Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival, March 14-16, is another reason to visit the lively Georgia town.

Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee offers lakeside dining, boating, a spa, guest rooms, suites, cottages, and the Lake House, with four bedrooms and a stunning lakefront location. RVs and campers are welcome at Lake Oconee KOA.

Oahu, Hawaii

Perfect weather in the mid-70s, gorgeous scenery, white-sand beaches, and a lively atmosphere make March a great time for a trip to Oahu. The island is celebrating the 28th Annual Honolulu Festival (March 7-9) with a parade, stage performances, food, music, and a craft fair. March is prime whale watching time, and a cruise to see the humpbacks is a thrilling experience. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, swimming, surfing, or just relaxing on the beach are more ways to enjoy the island. My first snorkeling experience was at Hanauma Bay, and I’ve returned several times since then; the marine life there is incredible. Visitors can learn about the history of the islands at the Polynesian Cultural Center or the fascinating Bishop Museum.

Where to Stay: The surf-themed Twin Fin, beachfront Alohilani, Prince Waikiki, and residential-style Renaissance Honolulu Hotel and Spa are great options. Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts debuted in February with expansive views of Diamond Head. For pure luxury, Espacio offers nine full-floor suites and five-star restaurant, Mugen.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Mardi Gras comes on March 4, but the festive season begins on Jan. 6 with most of the parades starting in mid-February, so there’s plenty of time to get in on the fun. Catch one of the krewes’ parades (and plenty of colorful beads) throughout the city, dine at iconic restaurants, and be sure to devour a few beignets and slices of king cake. Between parades, there’s much to see and do, and you can get a closeup look at parade floats at Mardi Gras World or learn about the city at the colorful, interactive Vue Orleans with stunning 360-degree vistas from its observation deck. On my recent visit, I spent most of a day at the impressive National WWII Museum, an engaging look at history with exhibits for all ages. 

Where to Stay: The Eliza Jane, Pontchartrain Hotel, Kimpton Hotel Fontenot, and Hotel Monteleone are excellent places to stay in New Orleans, and Le Pavillon just completed a major renovation. 

Washington, D.C.

Beautiful year-round with so much to see, the nation’s capital is especially lovely in spring when the weather warms and the National Cherry Blossom Festival arrives (March 20-April 13). Parades, concerts, and performances celebrate the stunning blossoms. Mother Nature decides on the exact dates for perfect blooms, but you can check the National Park Service’s website for data from past years. It’s easy to fill your days at the Smithsonian museums (with free admission), monuments, and parks.

Where to Stay: T+L readers voted for their favorite Washington, D.C. hotels in the 2024 World’s Best Awards; this year, The Jefferson took the top spot.

Costa Rica

T+L’s 2024 Destination of the Year sees its dry season in March, making this the ideal time to visit for some travelers (although the best time to visit Costa Rica largely depends on what you want to experience). “There’s really no bad time to visit Costa Rica,” says Trevor Ling, owner of Hotel Three Sixty. “Late February through March is characterized by the driest weather and spectacular wildlife sightings, like the annual humpback whale migration. Here on the Pacific Coast, March is also prime time for watching turtles hatch on our coastline’s pristine beaches.” Whether your goal is to see wildlife, beaches, rainforests, or small towns, you can find what you’re after in Costa Rica.

Where to Stay: Set on the Nicoya Peninsula along the Pacific, boutique Florblanca features a waterfall pool, Spa Bambu, yoga, and Pilates. Enjoy panoramic views from the mountainside Origins Lodge or a beachfront villa at Costa Elena. Set to open in March, Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is located on Peninsula Papagayo. Visitors looking for a seamless stay may want to choose one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica.

Malta

This three-island archipelago just south of Italy features well-preserved medieval fortresses, archaeological sites, and museums. Muza, the National Museum of Art, showcases artwork from different eras. While the country’s cultural sites are impressive, the clear seas surrounding the island are perfect for surfing, kayaking, diving, cruising, and relaxing on the beach. Malta’s cuisine features an eclectic blend of Provencal, Italian, and local dishes, highlighted by farm-fresh produce and seafood, and local wineries and breweries are worth a visit, too.

Where to Stay: Choose AC Hotel St. Julian’s or Barceló Fortina Malta. Hyatt Centric Malta is located in the heart of St. Julian’s, Malta’s premier resort town.

Okinawa, Japan

Spring arrives in March with flowers blooming and temperatures warming into the high 60s, perfect for being outdoors. Hiking in Keramashoto National Park, strolling along beaches, and enjoying colorful blossoms are among things to do. In Higashi Village, more than 50,000 azaleas bloom for the March Azalea Festival. The Netflix series, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, has inspired travel to Okinawa, and visitors find incredible experiences like diving among coral reefs, learning about the islands’ history and traditions, and enjoying the delicious cuisine. Flights from major cities in Asia arrive at Okinawa’s Naha Airport.

Where to Stay: Hoshinoya Okinawa is an oceanside resort offering the Okinawa Blue Zone Stay, a three-day wellness experience. Halekulani Okinawa offers guest rooms and five villas with private pools. Homm Okinawa, a Banyan Tree Hotel, features spacious private villas.

Mexico City, Mexico 

March is ideal for a trip to Mexico City, with dry weather, temperatures in the mid-70s, and the blooming of the purple jacarandas. It’s the perfect time to explore the city’s neighborhoods, from hip to historic, sample street food, and learn about the past. More than a museum, Casa Azul is the place where Frida Kahlo spent her early life and her time with Diego Rivera. Personal objects, folk art, photos, books, and paintings by both artists create a fascinating experience. I loved the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco during my visit a few years ago; seeing local families, tourists, and the colorful boats (trajineras) and flowers was such fun. 

Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Mexico City and Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City were ranked among our readers’ favorite Mexico City hotels in the 2024 World’s Best Awards, and the St. Regis is another upscale option.

Florence, Italy

March begins the shoulder season in Florence, just ahead of spring and summer’s more popular tourist seasons. Visiting museums, restaurants, and piazzas is ideal in March, and with the right clothing, the cool weather is comfortable. Florentine New Year, dating to the Middle Ages, is celebrated on March 25 with a procession through the city streets. Or plan ahead for Easter (which falls on April 20 this year), when a unique tradition, the Explosion of the Cart, takes place. Claudio Meli, general manager of The Place tells T+L, “March is the perfect time to visit our beloved Florence and embrace some of our local traditions. One of my favorites is the Scoppio del Carro, or Exploding of the Cart. Outside of the Duomo, the cardinal of Florence lights a massive cart and fireworks are released, symbolizing the Holy Spirit.”

Where to Stay: The Place is a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Piazza Santa Maria Novella, and Hotel Savoy, a Rocco Forte Hotel is located on Piazza della Repubblica. Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Resorts Collection, offers multi-bedroom suites and stunning views.

Mendoza, Argentina

“The Harvest Festival in Mendoza is a captivating celebration that beautifully intertwines the rich viticultural heritage of the region with a vibrant display of culture and tradition. It’s a time when the vineyards come alive with the culmination of a year’s hard work, and the air is filled with the aroma of freshly harvested grapes,” Veronica Marquina, general manager at Cavas Wine Lodge, told T+L. “It’s a must-experience event that immerses visitors in the heart and soul of Mendoza’s wine culture.” The Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia (National Grape Harvest Festival) celebrates the harvest with music, dance, theater, and, of course, wine, beginning on March 2 with the blessing of the fruits. The Harvest Parade is planned for March 8. This agricultural region where malbec is made is about 650 miles west of Buenos Aires.

Where to Stay: Cavas Wine Lodge, a Relais & Châteaux member, is a boutique property set in a 55-acre vineyard. The Vines Resort & Spa is set in the Uco Valley, and SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites features wines from Susana Balbo Winery.

St. Martin

Located in the Caribbean Sea, this island is shared by two nations: the Netherlands and France. Visitors cross the open border easily, and in St. Maarten (the Dutch side), they’ll find casinos, bars, shopping, and nightlife, while in St. Martin (the French side), excellent restaurants, beaches, and beautiful natural surroundings are abundant. The largest regatta in the Caribbean, the Heineken Regatta (March 6-9), will bring yacht fans from around the world. SXM Music Festival (March 12-16) arrives for five nights of electronic music and dancing. Water sports, sailing, hiking, and zip lining are among the many things to do on St. Martin.

Where to Stay: La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel was voted among the best resorts in the Caribbean in our 2023 World’s Best Awards. JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa is set on beautiful Dawn Beach.

Melbourne, Australia

Located on the southeastern coast of Australia, Melbourne has been called the country’s culture capital, and March events offer something for everyone. From March 13-16, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix takes place, and the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival is set for March 21-30. From March 26-April 30, laugh along with locals and visitors at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival or check out the latest fashions at the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival from Feb. 22 to March 8. While you’re there, be sure to visit the historic Queen Victoria Market and take a day trip to Yarra Valley wine country.

Where to Stay: Be one of the first to stay at 1 Hotels Melbourne (opening in March), located on the Yarra River. Laneways by Ovolo and Ovolo South Yarra, both Small Luxury Hotels of the World, are excellent options, too. The StandardX Melbourne is a boutique hotel in the eclectic Fitzroy neighborhood.

Thailand

T+L’s 2025 Destination of the Year, Thailand offers stunning beaches, lively cities, diverse national parks, and some of the tastiest street food in the world. All eyes will be on the country with the return of The White Lotus; the hotly anticipated third season of the hit TV show takes place in Thailand and debuts on Feb. 16. 

Where to Stay: We’ve rounded up 11 of the best hotels in Bangkok, where your Thailand vacation will likely start. The third season of The White Lotus was filmed at two luxe resorts: Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas and the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. I had a wonderful stay at the gorgeous Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya, home of the award-winning BKK Social Club.

San Miguel de Allende 

T+L readers once again chose San Miguel de Allende as their favorite city in Mexico in the 2024 World’s Best Awards. The historic city is lovely in spring with dry weather and temperatures reaching nearly 80 degrees. In mid-March, the CubaFest Cuban Festival features cultural events, and surprisingly, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in San Miguel with a film festival and parade. St. Joseph’s Day (March 19) is also a time of festivities, with fireworks, a parade, and music. Another occasion calling for a parade is the arrival of spring, when children dress as flowers or animals and march through the town center. Take in the city’s ambiance with a stroll among the charming streets and shops, and for a day trip, head to the nearby Guanajuato wine region for a tour and tasting.

Where to Stay: Set to debut in late spring, Pueblo Bonito Vantage San Miguel de Allende will feature an Aromatika Spa & Wellness center. Rosewood San Miguel de Allende offers guest rooms, suites, and spacious residences. The NUMU Boutique Hotel is home to the downtown area’s only rooftop pool.