March time in Arizona
I would like some help on what to visit in Arizona. Will be in Wickenburg for 5 day for family gathering. Plan to stay another week. We have been to Grand Canyon but might go back since it’s been a while any suggestions. My husband and I are in early 70s .
March is a wonderful time to visit Arizona. The weather is generally mild, with daytime temperatures in the 60s to 70s in central and northern Arizona and warmer in southern areas like Tucson and Phoenix. Since you’ll be staying in Wickenburg for a family gathering, you have a great opportunity to explore both nearby attractions and some of Arizona’s iconic destinations.
Here are some suggestions for places to visit and activities that are enjoyable and suitable for people in their 70s:
- Phoenix and Scottsdale: About an hour’s drive from Wickenburg, these cities offer museums, gardens, and historic areas. Consider:
- Heard Museum – Focuses on Native American art and culture, with accessible exhibits.
- Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden – Easy paved paths and beautiful desert flora, ideal for leisurely walks.
- Old Town Scottsdale – Stroll along the main street, explore art galleries, and enjoy local shops.
- Sedona: About a 3-hour drive from Wickenburg, famous for red rock formations. Accessible viewpoints and scenic drives include:
- Airport Mesa Scenic Drive
- Chapel of the Holy Cross
- Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) – Multiple pull-offs with easy access to views
- Flagstaff: Consider a day trip to Flagstaff (about 3.5 hours from Wickenburg) for:
- Lowell Observatory – Accessible and interesting for astronomy enthusiasts.
- Historic downtown – Walkable streets with shops, cafés, and museums.
- Montezuma Castle National Monument: Located near Camp Verde (about 3 hours from Wickenburg), this well-preserved cliff dwelling has short, flat walking paths and is very accessible.
- Jerome: A historic mining town on Cleopatra Hill with galleries, shops, and easy-to-navigate streets offering scenic views of the Verde Valley.
- Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend: If you want to extend your trip further north, these iconic spots near Page, AZ, provide dramatic scenery. Guided tours at Antelope Canyon are available, but some walking is required. Horseshoe Bend has a short, slightly inclined walk to the viewpoint.
If you are open to a repeat visit to the Grand Canyon, March is an excellent time as it’s less crowded than the summer months. Consider:
- South Rim viewpoints – Accessible with paved paths and shuttle services to major overlooks.
- Ranger-led programs – Informative, short walks suitable for moderate mobility.
- Sunrise or sunset visits – Spectacular views with minimal walking.
Other tips for traveling in Arizona in March:
- Bring layers – mornings and evenings can be cool, especially in northern Arizona.
- Hydrate often – Arizona’s dry climate can be dehydrating.
- Plan early morning or late afternoon outings to avoid the strongest sun.
- Consider guided tours for scenic drives – This reduces the need for extensive walking while still enjoying spectacular landscapes.
With these options, you can enjoy a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and historic sites at a comfortable pace, making your Arizona trip both memorable and relaxing.
More Arizona (AZ) Travel Questions