Providence in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Providence
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Lowest accommodation rates of the year - hotels drop prices 30-40% compared to summer peak season before spring break crowds arrive
- Perfect weather for indoor cultural attractions - cooler temperatures make museum hopping and gallery walks comfortable without summer heat
- Restaurant Week and early spring dining events offer prix fixe menus at top establishments for ฿45-65 instead of typical ฿80-120
- Maple sugaring season in nearby regions creates unique local experiences and seasonal menu items unavailable other times of year
Considerations
- Unpredictable weather swings from 3°C (37°F) to 14°C (57°F) in the Easttimor day require layered clothing and flexible indoor backup plans
- Rain occurs 10 days per month, often as cold drizzle that makes outdoor walking tours uncomfortable without proper gear
- Limited daylight hours with sunset around 6 PM restrict evening outdoor activities compared to summer months
Best Activities in March
Historic Downtown Walking Food Tours
March's cooler temperatures make 3-4 hour walking food tours comfortable, avoiding summer heat. Local restaurants feature seasonal ingredients like maple-glazed dishes and early spring vegetables. Rain typically comes in short bursts, and most food stops are indoors or covered.
Newport Mansion Tours
Perfect indoor cultural activity for March's variable weather. Mansion interiors showcase Gilded Age luxury without summer crowds. The 45-minute drive from Providence offers scenic coastal views, and indoor tours aren't affected by March rain patterns.
Federal Hill Italian Heritage Experiences
March marks the beginning of spring festivals in the Italian-American community. Indoor cooking classes and wine tastings take advantage of cooler weather, while traditional Saint Joseph's Day celebrations (March 19) offer authentic cultural immersion unavailable other months.
Blackstone River Valley Mill Tours
March's moderate temperatures and bare trees provide clear views of historic mill architecture along the Blackstone River. Indoor museum components protect against March rain, while outdoor portions are comfortable in 10-14°C (50-57°F) weather with proper layering.
Providence River Boat Tours
WaterFire installations begin returning in late March as weather moderates. River tours offer unique perspectives of downtown architecture while remaining protected from March winds. Tours typically run 60-90 minutes with indoor seating areas available.
Mohegan Sun Day Trips
March's unpredictable weather makes indoor entertainment particularly appealing. The 90-minute bus ride from Providence offers a complete day experience with gaming, dining, and shows. Perfect backup plan when outdoor activities are cancelled due to rain.
March Events & Festivals
Saint Patrick's Day Parade
Providence's Irish-American community hosts one of New England's largest Saint Patrick's parades, typically drawing 50,000+ spectators to downtown Federal Hill area. Features traditional music, dance performances, and local Irish pub celebrations throughout the day.
Saint Joseph's Day Festival
Federal Hill's Italian-American community celebrates with traditional altar displays, special foods like zeppole and sfinge, and religious processions. Restaurants offer special Saint Joseph's Day menus featuring traditional dishes unavailable other times of year.
Rhode Island International Film Festival Early Screenings
Select preview screenings and filmmaker events begin in late March as a precursor to the main summer festival. Indoor venues throughout Providence showcase independent films with Q&A sessions and industry networking events.