March can be a very strange time weather-wise. With not-quite-spring temperatures, occasional lingering snow and the first glimpses of the season to come, it can be a volatile time to plan a road trip. That being said, it’s also a wonderful time to travel. With many resorts still offering winter prices, enticing rental car deals, affordable gas prices and sunny days starting to become more common, March is actually a great time to hit the road. Because of the weather, some drives are simply more pleasant this time of year than others. We think the following destinations are some of the best to drive to right now.
Washington, D.C.
There’s never a bad time to visit our nation’s capital. But if you’re on the East Coast, taking a drive to D.C. is a great way to welcome spring. The National Cherry Blossom Festival always kicks off on the first day of spring, and it’s quite the sight to behold. Plus, if you time your trip right, you’ll miss the influx of student travelers that tend to start arriving in April.
Vermont
Vermont is beautiful, charming and serene. Maple season kicks off in March, a time when the slightly warmer days and cool nights encourage the sugar maple sap to start flowing again. Even if syrup isn’t your jam, there’s plenty to see and do in the Green Mountain State.
Boston
You’ll never forget the St. Patrick’s Day you spend in Boston. The city’s annual parade is a wonderful celebration of the local Irish heritage. There’s plenty of fun for the older crowd too, and the bar scene never disappoints. You can also find bargains on hotels that last through March, before the spring and summer rates kick in.
Tampa
Feel like a getaway to Florida? If you go in March, give Tampa a try. The average temperature is in the mid-70s, with a low of around 55 at night. Ideal weather for most people tired of winter but not quite ready for the humid 100 degree days Florida summers can bring.
Whistler, British Columbia
Canada’s top winter sports destination is a must-see for anyone who enjoys snow sports. March is a great time to go, especially if you can hit the post-holiday pre-April lull. You’ll still have plenty of company, but you might score a great deal on British Columbia lodging.
Quebec City
March is a wonderful time to take a family vacation to Quebec City, which sits on the Saint Lawrence River. You certainly don’t have to speak French to enjoy your visit, but the locals will always appreciate it if you try. With a rich history dating back to 1608, the cobblestone streets lined with bistros and boutiques will make you think you’ve somehow traveled to Europe by car.
Palm Springs
Palm Springs is beautiful, and March temperatures tend to hover around a perfect 76 degrees. This mellow California town has plenty of restaurants and attractions, but you might not be able to tear yourself away from your poolside lounge chair — especially if your hotel offers poolside food and beverage service.
The Grand Canyon, Arizona
Why March? The summer crowds won’t have arrived yet, so you’ll beat the rush. Going in the early spring means easy access to the stunning lookout points along the South Rim, and you should be able to find great deals on Arizona lodging.
March is shoulder season in many destinations, which means lower rates on both hotels and rental cars. Take advantage of the savings before peak season arrives.
Find affordable rental car rates and plan your early spring road trip adventure.