Things to Do in Springfield in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Springfield
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Shoulder season pricing means accommodation costs drop 20-30% compared to peak winter months, and you can book quality hotels just 1-2 weeks out instead of months ahead
- March sits in that sweet spot where Springfield's weather is warming up but hasn't hit the intense heat yet - daytime temperatures around 12°C (54°F) are actually comfortable for walking tours and outdoor activities
- Crowds thin out considerably after the February rush, so major attractions feel manageable again and you won't be fighting for restaurant reservations or photo opportunities
- The variable weather in March creates those dramatic skies that photographers love, and the occasional rain shower keeps the landscape green without disrupting plans too much since storms typically pass quickly
Considerations
- March weather is genuinely unpredictable - you might get brilliant sunshine one day and grey drizzle the next, which makes packing tricky and means you need backup plans for outdoor activities
- With 10 rainy days spread throughout the month, you're looking at about a one-in-three chance of rain on any given day, though showers tend to be brief rather than all-day affairs
- The 70% humidity combined with that UV index of 8 creates a muggy feeling that catches first-timers off guard, especially if you're coming from drier climates - it's the kind of humidity where you'll want to shower twice a day
Best Activities in March
Springfield Botanical Gardens and Nature Walks
March is actually ideal for Springfield's botanical gardens and nature trails because the cooler mornings between 2-12°C (36-54°F) make hiking comfortable, and recent rainfall keeps everything lush. The variable weather means you'll want to start early around 7-8am before the UV index climbs to 8 by midday. The shoulder season means you'll have trails mostly to yourself on weekdays.
Historic District Walking Tours
The moderate temperatures in March make this the perfect month for exploring Springfield's historic downtown on foot. You'll want to schedule these for mid-morning around 9-10am when it's warmed up from the 2°C (36°F) overnight low but before the humidity becomes oppressive. The thinner crowds mean you can actually take your time at historic sites without feeling rushed.
Indoor Museum and Gallery Circuit
With 10 rainy days scattered through March, Springfield's excellent museum scene becomes your weather backup plan. The climate-controlled environments are a welcome break from the 70% humidity, and March's shoulder season means you can explore major exhibits without the summer crowds. Worth noting that several museums have extended their hours in 2026, staying open until 8pm on Thursdays.
Local Food Market Tours and Cooking Experiences
March brings seasonal produce to Springfield's markets, and the cooler morning temperatures around 2-5°C (36-41°F) make early market visits comfortable. The variable weather actually works in your favor here since covered markets provide shelter while still giving you that authentic local experience. Cooking classes are increasingly popular as indoor activities during March's unpredictable afternoons.
Brewery and Distillery Trail
Springfield's craft beverage scene has exploded in the past two years, and March is actually a great time to explore it. The indoor tasting rooms provide perfect rainy day alternatives, while the moderate weather makes cycling or walking between venues pleasant during dry spells. Interestingly, several breweries release spring seasonal beers in March that you won't find other times of year.
Riverside and Waterfront Activities
The rivers and waterfront areas around Springfield are particularly scenic in March when water levels are healthy from winter precipitation. The variable weather creates dramatic reflections for photography, and the moderate temperatures make riverside cycling or walking comfortable. That said, check weather forecasts closely since the 10 rainy days can make paths muddy.
March Events & Festivals
Springfield Spring Arts Festival
This annual arts festival typically takes over downtown Springfield in mid-March, featuring local artists, live music, and food vendors. It's worth planning around if you're into the arts scene, though be prepared for potential rain delays since it's mostly outdoors. The festival has grown significantly and now attracts regional artists, making it a genuine cultural highlight rather than just a tourist event.
St. Patrick's Day Celebrations
Springfield goes surprisingly big for St. Patrick's Day on March 17th, with a parade through downtown and pub crawls throughout the historic district. The Irish heritage community here is substantial, so this feels authentic rather than manufactured for tourists. Just know that accommodation prices spike by 30-40% for the weekend around March 17th, and you'll need to book restaurants well ahead.