March in Philadelphia tends to be cold, however, a touch of spring usually appears near the end of the month.
Temperatures
Daytime high temperatures tend to average around 48-50 F (9-10 C) early in the month, warming to 56-58 F (23-24 C) near the end of the month.
A few of the warmer afternoons, especially later in the month, can reach up near 70 F (21 C). The record high temperature in Philadelphia during March is 87 F (30.6 C).
Late night and early morning lows tend to be around 30-32 F (-1 to 0 C) early in the month but warm to 37-39 F (3-4 C) by the end of the month.
A few of the colder mornings, especially early in the month, can still dip down near 21 F (-6 C). The record low temperature in Philadelphia during March is 7 F (-13.9 C).
Sky, Rain and Snow
Philadelphia during March typically has about 8 mostly sunny, 8 partly sunny, and about 15 mostly cloudy days.
Some precipitation falls on about 10-11 days, however, only about 3 of these produce 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) or more.
Snow falls on average, on 2 days this month with 1 day recording at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) of snow. Snowfalls of 3 inches (7.6 cm) or more occur about once every other year.
Daylight
The number of daylight hours increases rapidly this month from about 11.3 hours on the 1st to about 12.6 hours by the 31st.
Windspeed
Wind speeds are light to gentle at 4-12 mph (6-19 kph) but can occasionally be moderate at 13-18 mph (20-28 kph).
What to Wear in Philadelphia During March?
Dress for winter as Philadelphia can still be cold this month.
You should pack a Winter coat, warm hat, gloves, a few scarfs, some warm socks, and a couple of sweaters. In addition, at least one pair of waterproof boots will come in handy.
Also consider packing a lighter-weight jacket or windbreaker for the few warmer afternoons near the end of the month.
Things to Do in Philadelphia in March
It can still get quite cold in Philadelphia during the spring, but if you manage to visit on a warm and sunny day, you might want to consider taking a pay-what-you-wish walking tour.
Although the baseball season doesn't typically kick off until April, the MLB will sometimes start the season in late March, so you might have an opportunity to catch a Phillies game!
St. Patrick's Day is on March 17th, and they usually hold a parade to honor this holiday during the closest weekend.
As usual, there will also usually be at least a handful of decent musicals and concerts to attend in Philly this month.
For even more ideas, make sure to check our post covering things to do in Philadelphia in March.
Fred Pickhardt
