By Sinaiyouth 
With the weather starting to warm up and daylight hours lengthening, March is an inviting month for a spring getaway with the kids. Many of the most popular family vacation spots in the United States see fewer visitors than during the summer vacations, but the weather is generally more pleasant than during the cold winter vacation months. This year, the best family vacation ideas for March include iconic natural wonders, a tropical island, and even the Emerald Isle. With so many great places offering low season deals, the hardest part about choosing where to go in March might be choosing just one destination.
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1. Washington, D.C.
March is a prime time to visit Washington, DC, as the season’s cooler temperatures mean fewer crowds at some of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. Hotel prices typically drop during the month as well, making it a great time to save on accommodation close to all the sights. DC blooms from mid-to-late March with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, but you can often sneak in just before or after the official dates and enjoy a little more of the famous blooms.
The District of Columbia offers something for everyone in the family. A visit in March might include the National Museum of Natural History, with its daily tarantula feedings or live butterfly pavilion; the International Spy Museum, with a hands-on undercover mission; and the National Museum of American History, with a children’s version of Julia Child’s cooking at Wegmans Wonderplace for aspiring young chefs. The National Children’s Museum is a must-see attraction with a three-story jungle gym, immersive exhibits and iconic artwork. Advance tickets are encouraged.
Where to stay: With breathtaking views of the White House, Lafayette Square and St. John’s Church, The Hay-Adams offers a historic five-star stay just a stone’s throw from the city’s most iconic attractions. The hotel is located on Lafayette Square and has 124 rooms and 21 suites.
2. Amelia Island, Florida
With 13 miles of pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and sunny days even in early spring, Amelia Island is one of the best places to visit in March for families. This barrier island off the coast of Florida enjoys warm weather with temperatures reaching the 70s Fahrenheit in spring, making it the perfect time to stroll along the beaches, take in the sights, ride a bike, or hike one of the island’s many trails. There is a chance of rain and ocean temperatures may still be a little chilly for swimming, but that just means you can expect fewer tourists to frequent the prime beaches.
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Families don’t have to look far to find plenty of things to do, including a family-friendly sunset cruise with Amelia Island River Cruises, miniature golf at one of the many putt-putts, wildlife viewing at the Nature Center, and visiting Civil War-era Fort Clinch.
Where to stay: Located on the beach, the Ritz-Carlton at Amelia Island allows you to take full advantage of what this secluded Florida beach town has to offer. Children will enjoy the Kids Ritz program, which includes hands-on adventure-themed activities that change every week. The hotel also has indoor and outdoor swimming pools with direct access to the beach.
3. Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim), Arizona
At a mile deep and 277 miles long, the Grand Canyon is one of those iconic family vacation destinations that needs no introduction. And March is a spectacular time to visit this natural wonder because there are fewer people blocking the view (especially before spring break) on the popular South Rim, the weather isn’t too cold (average high of 55 degrees at the rim and 10 degrees colder in the canyon), and hotel prices tend to be lower.
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Those who come to the Grand Canyon in March generally find it to be one of the best national parks to visit in spring as the temperatures are ideal for a day of exploring on foot. But for those who want a more relaxed introduction, The Grand Canyon: The Movie on IMAX at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center offers a relaxed way to take in the majestic beauty of the park. Little nature explorers can become a Grand Canyon National Park Junior Ranger by completing a list of tasks inside the park. The real attraction, however, will be the humbling view of this immense natural wonder.
Where to stay: Located right on the south rim of the Grand Canyon and in the center of the historic district, Thunderbird Lodge offers a family-friendly stay with great views. Guests can easily walk to restaurants, shops and the visitor center. The hotel also has a prime location for hiking directly on the Rim Trail, which extends from Hermits Rest to the Kaibab Trailhead. Another option for families wanting to enjoy the classic park architecture of the best national park lodges is the El Tovar Hotel, also located near the rim, just a short walk from the trailheads.
4. Bermuda
With land temperatures averaging 70 degrees and ocean temperatures averaging 68 degrees in March, Bermuda is easily one of the best places to visit this time of year. And with the exception of spring break, crowds are also significantly smaller than in summer, so it’s easier to find better deals on lodging and airfare.
Bermuda is a tropical playground for family fun, and some of the best things to do with kids include sliding down a 21-foot lighthouse at the Bermuda National Museum and taking part in a scavenger hunt at the Bermuda Aquarium, Natural History Museum and Zoo. If you’re traveling with small children, head to Shelly Bay Beach, where the water is generally shallow and calm, and there’s a large playground just a short walk from the beach.
Where to stay: With 11 brightly colored cottages nestled among 21 acres of waterfront property, Grotto Bay Beach Resort and Spa gives you access to two private pink-sand beaches, a freshwater pool, a Jacuzzi in the outdoor garden, and a spa located in a 500,000-year-old cave. Plus, kids can make a splash at the open-sea water park.
5. Dublin, Ireland
Of course, in early spring Ireland is a little chilly (highs in the 50s) and maybe a little damp too. But Dublin, the capital, remains a wonderfully fun place to take the kids in March. Aside from the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, the city sees relatively fewer tourists at this time of year and therefore hotel prices tend to be significantly lower.
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You may need to pack a few extra layers and a good rain jacket, but it’s worth it to catch a show at The Ark, take a Viking Splash amphibious tour, or visit the Chocolate Warehouse without big crowds. Tweens and teens can enjoy a visit to Dublinia, where they will step back in time to medieval and Viking Dublin and have the chance to climb a medieval tower.
Where to stay: Feel like royalty when you stay at Clontarf Castle Hotel, a real castle just 3km (10 minutes drive) from Dublin city centre. Dating back to 1172, this castle hotel has been renovated to meet modern needs while retaining its historic charm. Three on-site restaurants, including a Knights Bar, provide plenty of options for hungry kids.