Things to Do in Peoria in March

March Weather in Peoria

18°C (65°F) High Temp

2°C (36°F) Low Temp

64 mm (2.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Maple syrup season peaks in March - local sugar camps open weekends with fresh syrup, pancakes, and horse-drawn rides through Wildlife Prairie Park
Bradley University basketball tournament excitement creates electric atmosphere downtown, with packed sports bars and discounted hotel packages
Early spring hiking emerges - Forest Park Nature Center trails become accessible after snow melt, perfect for spotting migrating birds
Indoor attractions hit their stride - Peoria Riverfront Museum and Caterpillar Visitors Center offer comfort during unpredictable weather with March-specific exhibits

Considerations

Weather swings wildly - temperatures can jump 15°C (27°F) in 24 hours, making packing and planning outdoor activities challenging
Mud season hits trails and parks - many hiking areas become soggy and less enjoyable until late March
Tourism infrastructure still in winter mode - some riverfront activities and seasonal attractions remain closed until April

Best Activities in March

Maple Syrup Farm Experiences

March is peak maple syrup season in central Illinois. Local sugar camps around Peoria offer weekend tours showing the tree-tapping process, with fresh syrup tastings and traditional pancake breakfasts. The cool nights (below 2°C/36°F) and warmer days (up to 18°C/65°F) create perfect sap flow conditions. Families especially love the authentic farm experience unavailable other months.

Booking Tip: Most sugar camps operate weekends-only in March. Call ahead as weather affects operations - warm spells halt sap production. Typical visits cost $8-15 per person. Check local farm websites or visitor center for current operating farms.

Indoor Cultural Tours

March's unpredictable weather makes indoor attractions shine. Caterpillar Visitors Center showcases heavy machinery with hands-on simulators, while Peoria Riverfront Museum features rotating exhibits. The weather variability means you can explore comfortably regardless of conditions outside, and March typically features special exhibits timed for school spring break crowds.

Booking Tip: Museums offer March break family packages. Book combo tickets online for 15-20% savings. Allow 2-3 hours per major attraction. Check museum websites for special March exhibits and events.

Early Season Nature Photography

Wildlife Prairie Park and Forest Park Nature Center offer exceptional March photography - bare trees create dramatic silhouettes, early wildflowers emerge, and migrating birds return. The variable weather creates dynamic skies perfect for landscape photography. Fewer crowds mean better access to prime spots.

Booking Tip: Park entrance fees run $5-12 per vehicle. Best light occurs during the golden hour - sunset around 7pm in March. Trails can be muddy, so waterproof boots essential. Check park websites for seasonal trail closures.

Historic Distillery Tours

Central Illinois craft distillery scene thrives in March as indoor activities gain appeal. Local distilleries offer tours showing bourbon and whiskey production, with tastings of seasonal releases. The cooler weather makes the warm distillery environments particularly welcoming.

Booking Tip: Tours typically cost $15-25 including tastings. Book weekend tours 1-2 weeks ahead as groups are smaller in March. Many offer food pairings for additional cost. Must be 21+ for tastings.

College Basketball Game Experiences

March Madness fever hits Bradley University and surrounding sports bars. The tournament atmosphere creates unique energy throughout the city. Even if Bradley isn't in the tournament, local bars host viewing parties with specials and brackets competitions.

Booking Tip: Game tickets range $20-80 depending on opponent and tournament implications. Sports bars get crowded during tournament games - arrive early or make reservations. Many hotels offer basketball fan packages in March.

March Events & Festivals

Mid to Late March

March Madness Basketball Tournament

Bradley Braves basketball reaches peak excitement during conference tournaments and potential NCAA tournament play. The entire city rallies around the team with viewing parties, special menu items at restaurants, and a general basketball fever that makes March unique in Peoria.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - temperatures swing 15°C (27°F) daily, pack t-shirts, sweaters, and a warm jacket

Waterproof hiking boots - mud season makes trails soggy, regular sneakers won't cut it

Compact umbrella - March averages 10 rainy days with sudden afternoon showers

Light scarf and gloves - early mornings still hit 2°C (36°F), especially for outdoor activities

Moisture-wicking base layers - 70% humidity combined with temperature swings requires breathable fabrics

SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index of 5 plus snow glare can cause burns during outdoor activities

Casual nice clothing - indoor attractions and restaurants become primary evening activities

Camera with weather protection - March offers dramatic skies but sudden weather changes

Comfortable walking shoes for indoor venues - museum and attraction hopping increases in variable weather

Small daypack - weather changes require carrying layers you'll add and remove throughout the day

Insider Knowledge

Local sugar camps often offer weekday discounts - call Tuesday through Thursday for less crowded experiences and better prices

Download weather radar apps - March weather changes hourly in Peoria, and locals check radar constantly

Many restaurants offer 'March Madness' specials during tournament games - even non-sports bars participate with basketball-themed menus

Forest Park Nature Center trails are best visited after 2pm when morning frost melts but before evening re-freeze - locals know this timing prevents slippery conditions

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing for only one type of weather - March requires summer and winter clothes in the same suitcase

Planning too many outdoor activities - weather frequently forces indoor alternatives, so book flexible tours

Ignoring basketball culture - March Madness affects restaurant availability, hotel rates, and local mood significantly