Things to Do in Richmond in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Richmond
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Early spring weather means comfortable walking temperatures 16-20°C (61-68°F) midday without summer heat exhaustion
- Hotel rates drop 25-40% compared to peak fall season, with excellent availability at boutique properties downtown
- Restaurant Week occurs mid-March with 3-course dinners at top establishments for $35-45 instead of typical $60-80
- James River water levels peak from winter runoff, creating ideal conditions for white-water rafting and kayaking adventures
Considerations
- Weather unpredictability means you need layers - morning starts at 7°C (45°F) but afternoon hits 23°C (73°F), requiring constant wardrobe adjustments
- Rainfall occurs on 10+ days with sudden afternoon downpours lasting 30-45 minutes that can derail outdoor plans
- Many outdoor festivals and farmers markets haven't started their full season schedules yet, limiting weekend activity options
Best Activities in March
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Cultural Tours
March's cool, variable weather makes this the ideal time for indoor cultural exploration. The museum's spring exhibition schedule launches new shows, and weekday crowds are minimal. The moderate humidity levels (70%) won't fog camera lenses during photography, and comfortable walking temperatures mean you can easily spend 3-4 hours exploring without fatigue.
James River Rapids Adventures
March offers the year's best white-water conditions as winter snowmelt and spring rains create Class II-III rapids. Water temperature averages 10°C (50°F) so wetsuits are provided, but air temperatures reaching 23°C (73°F) make post-rafting activities comfortable. This is peak season for river activities before summer heat and lower water levels.
Historic Downtown Walking Food Tours
Cool March temperatures 16-20°C (61-68°F) create perfect conditions for 3-4 hour walking food tours. Restaurant Week coincides with peak local ingredient season, and outdoor seating becomes comfortable again. Rain occurs mainly in afternoon, so morning tours (9am-1pm) rarely get disrupted.
Maymont Park Garden Photography
Early spring blooms begin in March while trees remain bare, creating perfect lighting conditions for photography. Daffodils and early cherry blossoms peak mid-March. Cool temperatures mean comfortable hiking on the mansion grounds' 2.4 km (1.5 mile) of trails, and lower tourist numbers ensure unobstructed shots.
Civil War Battlefield Tours
March weather is ideal for outdoor historical exploration with mild walking temperatures and minimal summer heat. Battlefields like Cold Harbor and Gaines Mill are less crowded, and spring grass growth hasn't obscured historical markers yet. Rain probability drops to 30% during mid-morning hours (10am-1pm).
Craft Brewery District Crawls
March marks the release of spring seasonal beers at local breweries. Cool weather makes walking between venues comfortable, and indoor spaces aren't yet crowded with summer tourists. Many breweries launch outdoor seating areas in March when temperatures become pleasant for extended afternoon sessions.
March Events & Festivals
Richmond Restaurant Week
Annual culinary celebration where 100+ restaurants offer prix fixe menus at significantly reduced prices. Three-course dinners typically $35-45 instead of regular $60-80 prices. Many establishments create special menus featuring spring ingredients and local brewery pairings.
St. Patrick's Day Parade and Festival
Historic downtown parade followed by festival in Monroe Park. Features local Irish music, food vendors, and craft beer stations. One of Richmond's largest outdoor gatherings with 15,000+ attendees, showcasing local culture and community organizations.