Places to Visit in Oregon in March
Oregon is a state in the Northwest USA known for breathtaking landscapes and diverse climates! You’ll find a variety of places to visit in Oregon in March like beaches, National Parks, State Parks, hiking trails, and more!
If you’re looking for Oregon vacation ideas, consider visiting in March when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller compared to peak tourist seasons.
In March you can enjoy cherry blossoms in Portland, explore the charming towns of the Central Oregon high desert, or road trip along the Oregon Coast.
The weather in Oregon in March will vary from the coast, inland desert, and mountains. It’s important to know the weather forecast and road conditions for the places you’ll visit in the spring so you’re prepared with the right clothing, gear, and supplies!
In March some mountain passes will require chains due to snow conditions. We’ve experienced a scary drive through a blizzard trying to head to the Oregon Coast from the east driving over a few mountain passes!
We’ve compiled this comprehensive list of must-do activities that belong on every Oregon Bucket List: things to see, do and taste all around the state! Grab the free download by clicking the graphic below!
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Map of Oregon Vacation Spots in March
Here is a map of March vacation spots in Oregon to help you plan your travel itinerary! Remember that road conditions and travel through the state from location to location could be impacted by weather!
We recommend the Oregon GuideAlong App to hear fun behind-the-scenes stories and local tips that play automatically as you drive, based on your GPS location as you drive through the state!
Places to Visit in Oregon in March
When visiting Oregon in the spring, you can stroll through the tulip fields at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn, visit Willamette Valley’s vineyards, hit the trails in Silver Falls State Park, or enjoy wildlife viewing to spot whales on the coast or birds returning from their winter migration.
We’ve asked our travel friends to share their favorite places to visit in Oregon for the month of March! Here are their recommendations and tips!
Bandon in March
Bandon, Oregon is the perfect place to visit in March. With the beautiful beaches and historic downtown, it’s easily one of the cutest coastal towns in Oregon. And, Bandon offers a little something for everyone.
There’s a great new mountain biking area in the forest just a few miles north of Bandon, there are sand drawings and sculptures along the beaches at low tide, and the tide pools in Bandon are fantastic and easy to reach.
One of our all time favorite things do in Bandon, Oregon is walk along the historic downtown and admire all the artwork produced by Washed Ashore. As the name suggests, Washed Ashore creates art from the plastic waste and trash that the waves bring to shore. This project brings both awareness to plastic waste and beautiful artwork throughout the town. (Recommended by Heather, ArboursAbroad)
Places to Stay in Bandon, Oregon
Bend in March
March is a great time to visit Bend, Oregon as it is a moderate temperature without snow and lots of sun. Bend is known for being an excellent destination for outdoor activities, and though it is the shoulder season, March is still a great time.
Bend is located in Central Oregon, East of the Cascade Mountains. To get there from Portland, drive South towards Salem and take US-20 East to Bend. Make sure you keep an eye on the weather using TripCheck to avoid hazardous conditions on the road.
Nearby Mount Bachelor is an excellent resort for those looking to go skiing, though conditions are heavily dependent on weather. Head out to Smith Rock State Park for incredible hiking and climbing, or head South to explore the collapsed crater of Newberry National Volcanic Monument.
Warm up after your adventures with the many natural hot springs near Bend. As this is an area with volcanic activity, the hot springs are a real treat.
Don’t forget to explore town too! Bend is home to several local breweries, and even the last remaining Blockbuster on Earth. Bend Brewing Company has a beautiful outdoor space right on the Deschutes River, while Vector Volcano Arcade Bar has over 40 retro arcade games in addition to an extensive tap list.(Recommended by Michele, Adventures Abound)
Places to Stay in Bend, Oregon
Cannon Beach in March
Known for its long sandy shore, Cannon Beach is a small coastal city located Northwest of Oregon. With over a dozen art galleries, this small city is one of the best places to discover art, as it has a thriving art scene.
In addition, there is also the famous Haystack Rock, which is one of the most recognizable landmarks at Cannon Beach. During low tide, you can walk up to the 235-foot rock and find tidepools or possibly even see Tufted Puffins and other birds.
One of the best reasons to visit Cannon Beach in March is to see Gray Whales on their migration between Mexico and Alaska. The best place to see the whales is Ecola State Park for its high vantage point.
The Cannon Beach area should be on your list of places to visit in Oregon with Kids for tidepooling and whale watching!
Keep in mind that when visiting Cannon Beach in March, temperatures are a lot cooler and tend to have more frequent rainfall. Be sure to dress warm; pack a rain jacket and wear waterproof shoes or rain boots. (Recommended by Kelena, Travelling City Girl)
Places to Stay in Cannon Beach, Oregon
Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls in March
One of the best Oregon photography locations is the Columbia River Gorge area that is filled with breathtaking waterfalls like Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Tunnel Falls. Many of these waterfalls are very popular and busy in the summer months and require a permit to access parking.
Here’s the order of the waterfalls as you drive east from Portland:
Latourell Falls cascades over a 224-foot basalt cliff. It’s easily accessible from a short trail that leads to a viewpoint. You can access the base and top of the falls via longer hiking trails.
Bridal Veil Falls drops 118 feet and includes two different tiers. It’s a short 1/3 mile walk along an easy path from the road.
Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon dropping 635 feet with two tiers! This is the state’s most popular attraction. March is right before the busy season begins along the waterfall corridor, but it’s always good to make sure no permits are required for your visit!
Tunnel Falls flows down over 165 feet and is accessed via the Eagle Creek Trail. A tunnel was blasted out of the rock behind the falls in order to continue the hiking trail to avoid the need of building an expensive bridge. (Recommended by Dave & Jamie, Photo Jeepers)
Places to Stay Near Columbia River Gorge
Crater Lake National Park in March
Crater Lake National Park, located in southern Oregon, is the state’s only national park, and its startlingly blue volcanic lake is the deepest in the U.S. The park is open year-round, and it’s a popular place to visit in Oregon in summer. Visiting in the winter can be tough due to weather and adverse conditions.
It will still feel like winter when visiting Crater Lake in March. It’s a unique and serene experience, as the national park is often covered in a blanket of snow, creating a tranquil and pristine winter wonderland largely devoid of other visitors. Unique lighting conditions, fewer clouds and less light pollution in March provide excellent opportunities for photography as well as stargazing.
Be prepared for cold temperatures and variable weather conditions. Wear winter clothing, dress in layers, bring waterproof gear, and check the weather forecast before your visit. The snow enhances the beauty of the lake and surrounding areas, but it is also possible that you will be unable to see the lake due to low-lying fog.
Due to snow accumulation, certain park facilities, roads, and amenities may be limited or closed. The Rim Drive, which offers panoramic views of the lake, is typically closed in winter. The Rim Village Visitor Center and Crater Lake Lodge may have limited services during March, so it’s advisable to check in advance for any operational changes. (Recommended by Monica, Digital Roamads)
Lodging and Tours Near Crater Lake National Park
Hood River in March
Hood River is one of the most lovely places to visit in Oregon! March is a quaint time to visit with fewer crowds. You’ll find Hood River conveniently located past the beautiful Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway, just a short 45-minute drive from Portland.
Some of the top things to do in Hood River include hiking in the Mount Hood National Forest, exploring Downtown Hood River, and visiting the charming Fruit Loop trail.
A day trip to Fruit Loop, Hood River is one of the best things to do in Oregon! The Fruit Loop trail consists of several local farm stands beneath the towering Mount Hood. Seven of the farm stands are open year-round. Check the Hood River website before your trip to confirm openings! (Recommended by Alyssa, An Apple a Plane)
Places to Stay in Hood River, Oregon
Lincoln City in March
Lincoln City is one of the most quaint and fun beach towns to visit along the Oregon Coast. As is usual for the Pacific Northwest, a decent portion of March will be rainy and cool. But as long as you include a poncho on your packing list, you can still enjoy the beauty and serene nature of this lovely town.
A walk along Neskowin Beach or a hike up Cascade Head trail are some of the best ways to appreciate the nature that surrounds Lincoln City.
Those who would like to make their beach time more interesting can take part in the famous Lincoln City tradition of Finders Keepers. Hundreds of glass-blown floats are hidden on area beaches, and if you find one, you get to keep it!
Tidepooling can bring hours of fun, too! Visitors can see some stunning sea life up close at the 15th Avenue Beach tidepools, where they occasionally have guided experiences as well.
When hunger strikes, visitors will be in luck because there are some amazing Lincoln City restaurants! From seafood, of course, to barbecue, no one will go hungry in this town. Lincoln City in March is a sweet Oregon Coast escape! (Recommended by Candice, CS Ginger)
Places to Stay in Lincoln City, Oregon
Painted Hills in March
March is a fantastic time to visit Oregon’s Painted Hills, one of three units in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the many hiking trails and see wildlife and wildflowers (with little chance of snow).
I recommend starting at the Thomas Condon Paleontology Museum so that you can get an overview of the natural processes that created these colorful rock formations. You can also watch paleontologists at work in their lab cleaning and preparing fossil samples.
The Clarno unit is fascinating for its fossil trail and towering rock formations. Exploring the Blue Basin is unforgettable, as you are surrounded by the blue-green canyon walls along the trail.
However nothing compares to the Painted Hills unit near the town of Mitchell. Every stop reveals new rainbow hills and vistas, each more striking than the last. There’s even a wheelchair-accessible trail in the Painted Cove.
Preparation is key to enjoying a visit to the Painted Hills. Check the NPS sites for closures, and the weather forecast before leaving your lodging. Local businesses often close early or are only open select weekdays, so bring road trip supplies like an emergency vehicle kit and extra food and water while exploring. (Recommended by Jennifer, Dinkum Tribe)
Places to Stay in John Day
Portland in March
While Portland is beautiful all year round, it is especially worth visiting in March. It’s still quite chilly, so be prepared to bundle up! It rains on and off, but once the rain subsides, the city is beautiful and filled with greenery.
You’ll find a variety of things to do in Portland in March. To get a gorgeous view of Downtown Portland and Mount Hood, drive over to Pittock Mansion, a chateau owned by the Pittock family who helped Portland grow as a thriving city.
Since Portland is one of the top foodie destinations in the US, you have to stop at all the food cart pods, which you can find on every corner. These food carts offer cheap and tasty meals from different cuisines such as Mexican, Indian, Thai, and Middle Eastern.
And no trip to Portland is complete without going to Voodoo Doughnuts. Or better yet, go on a donut tasting tour to try some of Portland’s other tasty donut shops. Most of the donut tours end at Voodoo anyway. If you’re visiting Portland with kids, donuts are a must-do activity!
Don’t forget to rent a car when visiting Portland so you can go on day trips to Multnomah Falls and the Oregon coast including Cannon Beach and Astoria! (Recommended by Hannah, Hannah on Horizon)
Portland, Oregon Lodging & Tours
Salem in March
Salem is beautiful in the spring because there are flowers everywhere! Bright yellow daffodils and purple crocuses and grape hyacinths are a common sight in yards and public parks throughout the month of March. The cherry blossoms near the Oregon Capitol come into bloom towards the end of March and beginning of April, making for gorgeous flower-covered paths and natural archways.
Only a 25-minute drive from Salem, the TulipFest in Woodburn is a riot of colorful tulips. The first blooms open towards the end of March, and several companies offer hot air balloon rides over the fields for an unforgettable bird’s-eye view. Of course you can also stroll through the fields on foot and enjoy a winery tour to cap your visit.
The Oregon Garden in Silverton is another gorgeous place to visit in March (about 20 minutes from Salem). With several themed gardens, such as a pet garden and a children’s garden, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Gordon House is next to the Garden as well for art and architecture enthusiasts. Or you can enjoy a restful spa getaway at the Oregon Garden Resort – check out their TulipFest package deals. (Recommended by Jennifer, Dinkum Tribe)
Places to Stay in Salem, Oregon
Samuel H. Boardman State Park in March
Located on the rugged and remote Oregon coast, Samuel H. Boardman State Park is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views for hikers and photographers!
Be on the lookout for the iconic Natural Bridges, a stunning formation of rock arches carved by the relentless waves. Stop by China Beach, a secluded spot perfect for a peaceful picnic surrounded by the raw power of the Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss the towering Sitka Spruce trees, some of the tallest and oldest in Oregon, standing as enduring sentinels of the coastal forests.
Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along the coast or an adrenaline-pumping hike to one of the park’s many viewpoints, there is something for every level of adventurer. (Recommended by Dave & Jamie, Photo Jeepers)
Places to Stay in Brookings, Oregon
Silver Falls State Park in March
Silver Falls State Park is often referred to as the crown jewel of the Oregon State Park system and it’s no wonder why. Located half an hour southeast of Salem, the park’s landscape is absolutely incredible, with lush rainforests, rugged basalt cliffs, and over ten rushing waterfalls. Its scenery is so dramatic that it was actually used as a filming location for the Twilight movies!
March is a chilly month, with plenty of low-hanging fog and rain, but this just makes the park’s waterfalls that much more spectacular. Throw on a rain jacket and stroll along the park’s iconic Trail of Ten Falls, which, true to its name, takes hikers past ten waterfalls—including four you can actually hike behind!
If you’re not quite up for such an 8.5 mile hike, there’s plenty of options to just hike a shorter distance to a few of the waterfalls along the trail, like the South Falls, which is just a quick walk from the parking lot. (Recommended by Jessica, Uprooted Traveler)
Smith Rock State Park in March
Smith Rock State Park, one of the 7 wonders of Oregon, located in the High Desert is a perfect place to visit year-long. The sheer cliffs, massive rocks, Crooked river, and endless views from the park attract adventure seekers and leisurely walkers alike.
There are many different ways to explore Smith Rock State Park and March is a perfect time of the year to do that. The temperatures are cooler and clear skies allow for snow-capped mountain views. Rock climbing, hiking and mountain biking are some of the most popular things to do here.
The park is considered the birthplace of American sport climbing and one of the most challenging climbs in the Monkey Face – don’t be surprised to see a rescue stretcher next to it. If rock climbing is not for you there is a huge variety of trails within the park for hiking, walking or mountain biking. We loved Misery Ridge and Summit Trail Loop, on a crisp and clear day the views were endless.
Whatever you decide to do at Smith Rock State Park, you will not go wrong. The place is a wonderland. (Recommended by Dana, Explore with Wine)
Where to Stay Near Smith Rock State Park
Willamette Valley in March
The beautiful Willamette Valley in Oregon is spread over 150 miles, with the Willamette River flowing through it. 3 mountain ranges surround the valley. They are the Cascade Range, the Calapooya Mountains, and the Oregon Coast Range. The fertile soil and all the waterways of the valley have turned it into a haven for agriculture. Willamette Valley is especially popular for being home to more than 500 vineyards.
March is the perfect season to visit the valley. It’s called the cellar season. You can spend extra time on wine tasting. The weather can get tricky as some days it’s sunny outside while others are foggy and rainy. Pack your rain gear, besides winter clothing, in the luggage for safety. Traveler can enjoy finding their truffles in the woods this time. A perfect view of the Mary’s Peak from Bold Hill is an added advantage during March.
Locals and tourists both like to go in the woods with their pets for hiking and hunting wild animals during March. They can also enjoy fresh meals in nearby buffets, like the Great Wall Buffet, Oregon. There are many popular vineyard restaurants like Willamette Valley Vineyards which serve farm-to-table food with great wine pairing. (Recommended by Ruma, The Holiday Story)
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Visiting Oregon in March
When it comes to planning a March trip to Oregon, it’s important to know the weather to expect for the location you plan to visit. Here are three main climate regions in Oregon to give you an idea of temperatures to expect:
Oregon Coast March Weather – All along the coast expect average highs near 60 and lows 45 degrees F. Be prepared for some rain.
Portland Oregon March Weather – Expect average highs 61 and lows 42 with some rain.
Mt. Hood & Columbia River Gorge March Weather – In Hood River and The Dalles expect average highs 63 and lows 38 with some rain. In Government Camp highs are 45 with lows 30 and expect rain and snow showers!
Central Oregon March Weather – In Bend, Redmond and Sisters expect average highs 57 and lows 30. Rain or snow showers are possible any time in March.
Eastern Oregon March Weather – In John Day, La Grande Pendleton expect average highs 57 and lows 30. Be prepared for rain or snow.
Southern Oregon March Weather – In Medford expect average highs 70 and lows 41. In Klamath Falls and Roseburg expect average highs 61 and lows 30.
Willamette Valley March Weather – In Canby, Corvallis and Eugene expect average highs 61 and lows 40. Be prepared for rain.
Road Trip Planner
Road trips in March require a bit more planning for “what if” situations. Be sure to grab the Road Trip Packing List that includes items for comfort, organization, eating, and first aid to make the family vacation a success. You’ll also receive a Road Trip Itinerary to plan the day-to-day schedule of the trip!
