2026 Climate Averages

Weather: Washington DC — March

Conditions are pleasant for sightseeing, though you might encounter occasional showers.

👍 Climate Overview

March is a good time to visit Washington DC. Mild temperatures around 15°C make it comfortable for exploring. Rain is common, so pack an umbrella. Temperatures vary significantly between day and night—layering is recommended. Being off-peak, you'll find better deals and fewer crowds.

8
GoTripzi Score Great

Based on weather comfort, crowds, prices, and activity options

Avg High

15°C

Avg Low

5°C

Rainy days

10days

Daylight

11.9h

Feels like 12°C / 1°C — wind chill makes it feel cooler

Rainfall

88mm

Sunshine

8.1h/day

Humidity

58%

Moderate
Sun Strength

6.1

High
Wind

19 km/h (gusts 42)

Is March a good time to visit Washington DC?

Conditions are pleasant for sightseeing, though you might encounter occasional showers.

Now

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Feels like --
Wind --
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UV Index --
Local time —

Air Quality

Travel Context

  • Crowds
    Moderate
  • Travel Costs Peak Rates

Daylight

Sunrise

07:22

Sunset

19:14

11.9h daylight

Live March Forecast

LIVE

Forecast for your trip dates

Up to 14 days ahead

Visiting Washington DC in March: Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Fewer crowds and better hotel deals

Things to Do in March

Events & Festivals

🌸
National Cherry Blossom Festival
Late March–Mid April Nature

Recommended for This Weather

🚶 Walking tours & sightseeing
🚲 Cycling & bike tours
🥾 Hiking & nature trails
🏛️ Museums & galleries
🍳 Cooking classes & food tours
🎭 Cultural tours & local experiences

Washington DC Weather by Month

Month Avg High Avg Low Rain Sunshine Humidity UV Index Crowds Condition
Jan 7°C -1°C 9d (86mm) 6.3h
65% Humid
3.2 Moderate
Good
Feb 10°C 0°C 10d (86mm) 6.8h
62% Moderate
4.3 Moderate
Good
Mar Current 15°C 5°C 10d (88mm) 8.1h
58% Moderate
6.1 High
Good
Apr 20°C 9°C 10d (91mm) 9.2h
59% Moderate
7.4 Very High
Excellent
May 24°C 14°C 12d (100mm) 9.8h
66% Humid
8 Very High
Excellent
Jun 30°C 19°C 10d (107mm) 11.4h
65% Muggy
9 Very High
Good
Jul 32°C 23°C 13d (136mm) 11.9h
70% Muggy
8.9 Very High
Wet
Aug 30°C 21°C 10d (115mm) 10.4h
72% Muggy
7.7 Very High
Good
Sep 26°C 17°C 10d (93mm) 8.7h
73% Humid
6.2 High
Excellent
Oct 21°C 10°C 7d (70mm) 7.9h
71% Humid
4.9 Moderate
Excellent
Nov 15°C 5°C 7d (66mm) 7.4h
64% Moderate
3.8 Moderate
Good
Dec 9°C 0°C 9d (111mm) 6h
67% Humid
2.8 Moderate
Good

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4.3

Where to Stay

See hotels, apartments & rentals around Washington DC – live prices from Booking.com, Expedia, Vrbo and more

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Washington DC

National monuments with National Mall & Smithsonian museums, cherry blossoms, memorials, and political power center.

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What to Pack for March

Dress in layers — a mix of long sleeves, light sweaters, and a versatile jacket works best for changeable conditions. A waterproof jacket and shoes are non-negotiable — showers are frequent.

Moderate Moderate

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📋Essentials
👕Clothing
👟Footwear
🎒Accessories
🧴Toiletries & Health

Planning a trip to Washington DC?

💰 Off-peak — great deals available now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is March a good time to visit Washington DC?
March is typically good for visiting Washington DC, with average highs of 15°C and around 10 rainy days. Plan your activities accordingly—outdoor sightseeing is best on dry days, while rainy days are perfect for museums and indoor attractions.
Does it get cold at night in Washington DC in March?
Nights in Washington DC during March are cool at around 5°C. Bring a jacket or sweater for evenings, especially if you plan to dine outdoors or take evening walks. The temperature drop from day to night can be noticeable.
What should I pack for Washington DC in March?
With highs of 15°C and lows of 5°C in March, we recommend: Layerable clothing, Light jacket, Compact umbrella, Waterproof jacket/shell. Layering is key as temperatures can vary between air-conditioned interiors and outdoors. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobblestone streets.
Does it rain a lot in Washington DC in March?
Washington DC typically sees around 10 rainy days in March. Rain is usually in the form of brief showers rather than all-day downpours, so a compact umbrella is sufficient. Mornings tend to be drier, making them ideal for outdoor sightseeing.
How many hours of daylight are there in Washington DC in March?
In March, Washington DC gets approximately 11.9 hours of daylight per day. This affects how much sightseeing you can fit in—longer days mean more time for outdoor activities, while shorter days are perfect for cozy museum visits and early dinners.
Is March peak season in Washington DC?
No, March is not peak season in Washington DC. Expect better value on accommodation, shorter queues at attractions, and fewer tourists at popular spots. This is an excellent time to experience the city like a local and enjoy a more authentic atmosphere.

Weather Data: Based on 2020–2025 historical climate data from Open-Meteo

Solar calculations: SunCalc (timezone: America/New_York)

Last Updated: February 2026

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