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Looking for the cheapest places to travel in March? Whether you’re searching for your next Spring Break adventure or a family-friendly location that doesn’t cost a fortune, March is a great time for a getaway.
To cut down on spending, consider skipping the plane and booking a cheap bus or train ticket through Wanderu instead. It’s more affordable than flying or renting a car, and lets you soak in the sights while you travel.
Plus, Wanderu lets you compare cheap train tickets and bus prices in one place so you can maximize your savings and find the best route for you.
Not sure where to go? From coastal escapes to creative hubs, here’s our top 10 list of the cheapest places to travel in March within the U.S.
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is perfect for a March getaway, boasting better weather and fewer crowds than Mardi Gras season.
Take your time meandering through the French Quarter, savor beignets at Café du Monde, and don’t miss seeing live jazz on Frenchmen Street. If you’re lucky, you might see some blossoming azaleas in City Park.
How to get there: FlixBus and Greyhound both offer cheap bus tickets to New Orleans with prices starting at around $13.50.
2. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah has a lot to offer any time of year — it even made our list for the best cheap places to travel in the United States. But March is one of the more pleasant times to visit this historic city when the azaleas are in full bloom and the weather is mild. Plus, the Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the largest in the U.S.
Take advantage of the pleasant weather and go for a leisurely (and affordable) walk through Forsyth Park, explore the city’s iconic squares, or admire the historic architecture that lines the cobblestone streets.
How to get there: Train tickets to Savannah cost as little as $33 from Raleigh, NC. You can also snag a cheap bus ticket to Savannah for about $22 from Brunswick, GA.
3. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is an artsy city that boasts a mix of culture, history, and nature. In March, the weather is crisp but perfect for budget-friendly activities like hiking or exploring local galleries and markets.
You can also experience the city’s vibrant arts scene by visiting its famous art installations or taking a stroll through its historical adobe-style architecture.
How to get there: Amtrak offers trains to Sante Fe from cities like El Paso and New Orleans. A train ticket from Albuquerque to Sante Fe has an average price of $44.
4. Chicago, Illinois
If you’re looking for a party, Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities are legendary. In between bar-hopping (or for a more family-friendly trip), explore Millennium Park or sample deep-dish pizza without the summer crowds.
How to get there: Barons Bus operates bus trips from Cleveland to Chicago from $44, while Tornado Bus can get you there if you’re traveling from spots like Kansas City or Ames. Burlington Trailways also has bus routes from Iowa City to Chicago starting at $47.
5. San Antonio, Texas
With scorching temperatures in the summer, you can’t go wrong with paying a visit to the Alamo City in the Spring instead. Don’t leave without checking out the San Antonio River Walk, a city staple. You can also enjoy outdoor dining, explore historic missions, or visit the San Antonio Botanical Garden.
How to get there: Texas locals can grab bus tickets to San Antonio from most major cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston. A bus ticket from Houston to San Antonio will cost around $27.
6. Portland, Oregon
Keep things weird and head to this quirky city for your March getaway. Spring arrives early in Portland, making it a great time to visit parks and gardens.
If you’re feeling hungry after walking around, grab some cheap eats at one of the city’s famous food trucks. Don’t miss the Portland Saturday Market if you’re there during the weekend!
How to get there: Hop on the Amtrak Coast Starlight or take a FlixBus from major cities like San Francisco or Seattle for an affordable, quick trip. For instance, a cheap train ticket from Seattle to Portland will cost you less than a nice dinner with tickets as low as $29.
7. Charleston, South Carolina
Visit this charming southern city if you’re looking for warm weather, blooming flowers, and delicious Southern cuisine. Explore cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and take a historical carriage tour to experience Charleston’s charm.
How to get there: Southeastern Stages can get you to Charleston in comfort from cities like Columbia for as low as $40.
8. Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a great budget-friendly destination that can appeal to most tourists, whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or foodie.
Don’t miss Philadelphia’s must-see attractions, like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell—both free to visit. Art enthusiasts can explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which offers pay-what-you-wish admission on the first Sunday of the month and every Friday night. Meanwhile, food lovers can indulge in a variety of local flavors at Reading Terminal Market, a must-visit spot for affordable bites.
How to get there: Philadelphia is easily accessible via bus or train, connecting it to NYC, DC and Boston affordably. For instance, a train ticket from New York City to Philly can set you back as little as $11.
9. St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis offers a mix of history, culture, and family-friendly attractions that are affordable like the St. Louis Zoo, which is completely free. Plus, the weather starts warming up in March, making outdoor activities enjoyable.
How to get there: Take an Amtrak train to St. Louis for as low as $5, or grab a bus from Troy to St. Louis starting at $23.50.
10. Denver, Colorado
March is the perfect time to explore the Mile High City for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy skiing near the Rockies or explore Denver’s breweries and art districts. Denver also offers plenty of free or low-cost activities, from hiking trails to museums with free admission days, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers.
How to get there: Express Arrow can get you to Denver from cities like Omaha, Greeley, Lincoln, and Cheyenne. An Express Arrow bus ticket from Greeley to Denver costs around $33.
Final Tips
Traveling doesn’t have to cost a fortune. March is an excellent time to explore new destinations without overspending by planning activities around free or low-cost options and exploring budget-friendly destinations.
You’ll also want to set a travel budget and look for deals early. Booking your bus or train tickets in advance is one of the easiest ways to lock in lower prices and avoid last-minute fare hikes. Wanderu makes it easy to compare prices from hundreds of carriers, and find the best route for you.
With so many affordable route options and destinations, you’re well on your way to enjoying an affordable, fun March adventure!
