Upper Arlington in March: What Opens Up as Winter Ends
Upper Arlington in March: What Opens Up as Winter Ends
March in Upper Arlington means warmer days, blooming gardens, and a city shaking off winter—here's what to expect and where to base yourself.
Parks and Gardens Wake Up
By mid-March, Upper Arlington's parks start to stir. The Scioto River corridor along Riverside Drive is a local favorite for early walks; the path is usually clear of ice by the second week, and you'll see the first daffodils poking through. If you're driving, parking at the Lane Road Park lot is free and rarely full before 10 a.m. For a longer stroll, head to the Griggs Reservoir Park on the city's western edge—its 3.5-mile loop offers river views and a chance to spot early migrating birds. Temperatures hover between 40°F and 55°F, so layers are wise. Best months for full bloom are April and May, but March rewards the eager with quiet trails and no crowds.
Thompson Park, near the Upper Arlington High School, is another good bet for a morning walk. The playgrounds are open year-round, but the tennis courts usually see their first players by late March. For a dose of local history, the Arlington Avenue Historic District is pleasant to wander; the tree-lined streets showcase early 20th-century architecture. Just remember that some private gardens are not open to the public—stick to sidewalks and marked paths. If you're traveling with kids, the Upper Arlington Public Library on Tremont Road is a handy rainy-day backup; its children's section is welcoming and free.
Dining and Shopping Emerge from Hibernation
The restaurant patios along Lane Avenue and Northwest Boulevard start setting out tables as soon as the sun appears, usually by the third week of March. You won't find many chain restaurants here; instead, local spots like the casual cafes near the Kingsdale Center offer soups and sandwiches that hit the spot on a chilly day. For a caffeine fix, the coffee shops on Lane Avenue are reliable, though hours can be shorter on Sundays. If you're self-catering, the Market District on Tremont Road is the main grocery stop, with a decent selection of local produce. Don't expect a huge farmers' market scene yet—that ramps up in May.
Shopping in Upper Arlington is low-key: the Shops at Lane Avenue and the Kingsdale Center are the main retail hubs. You'll find independent boutiques and necessary services rather than destination shopping. March is a good time to browse without the holiday rush. For a wider selection, downtown Columbus is a 15-minute drive east via Lane Avenue and SR-315. If you're relying on public transit, the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) buses run along Northwest Boulevard, but service is limited on weekends. I'd recommend a car for flexibility, especially if you want to explore beyond the suburb. Hotel rates in Upper Arlington are generally lower in March than in summer, making it a smart time to book.
Events and Local Life
March in Upper Arlington is not packed with major festivals—that's part of its appeal. The Upper Arlington Public Library hosts story times and book discussions that are open to visitors. The community center on Ridgecliff Road sometimes offers drop-in fitness classes for a small fee; check their calendar. For a taste of local culture, the Arlington Arts Council may have a small exhibition, but you'll need to verify dates. The bigger draws are in Columbus: the Arnold Sports Festival usually takes place in early March, drawing crowds to downtown. If that's your scene, book a hotel in Upper Arlington and drive in—parking downtown is easier on weekends.
St. Patrick's Day on March 17 brings a bit of green to local pubs, though the celebrations are modest compared to Columbus's Irish bars. The weather can be unpredictable—snow is not unheard of—so have indoor options ready. The Mall at Tuttle Crossing, a 20-minute drive northwest, offers indoor shopping and a movie theater. For a quiet afternoon, the Upper Arlington Historical Society might have limited hours; call ahead. Overall, March is a transitional month: you'll find fewer events but also fewer tourists, which means more room to explore at your own pace. It's a good time for a relaxed visit if you don't need guaranteed sunshine.
Where to Stay and How to Get Around
Upper Arlington itself has a handful of hotels, mostly along the Lane Avenue corridor and near the OSU campus. These are convenient for visiting the university or accessing downtown Columbus. If you want more options, consider hotels in nearby Grandview Heights or Dublin—both are within a 15-minute drive. Rates in March tend to be moderate; you can expect to pay less than in peak summer. For booking, I'd suggest looking for properties with free parking, as many Upper Arlington hotels charge for it. The Holiday Inn on Lane Avenue is a solid mid-range choice, but always check recent reviews. Avoid booking without confirming cancellation policies, as March weather can disrupt travel plans.
Getting around Upper Arlington is easiest by car. The suburb is well-connected via SR-315 and I-70, and driving to downtown Columbus takes about 15 minutes outside rush hour. If you're flying in, John Glenn Columbus International Airport is a 20-minute drive east. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft operate here, but wait times can be longer than in the city center. Public transit is limited: COTA buses run on major roads but infrequently. For a stress-free trip, I'd book a hotel with parking and plan to drive or use rideshares. Biking is possible on some roads, but lanes are scarce. March's unpredictable weather makes a car the most practical choice.
Before you book
What people ask before booking Upper Arlington.
March sees average highs of 50°F and lows of 32°F. Snow is possible early in the month, but by late March, days often reach the mid-50s. Rain is common, so pack a waterproof jacket and layers.
Upper Arlington itself has few major events in March. The library and community center may host small gatherings. For larger festivals, look to Columbus, where the Arnold Sports Festival typically occurs in early March.
Yes, a car is highly recommended. Public transit is limited, and many attractions are spread out. Parking is generally free and easy, except in the few commercial districts. Rideshares are available but can have longer waits.
Griggs Reservoir Park and Thompson Park are good choices. Trails are usually clear, and early spring flowers begin to appear. The Scioto River path along Riverside Drive is also pleasant for walks, though it can be muddy after rain.
Yes, March is considered shoulder season, so hotel rates are often lower than in summer. You can find moderate prices, especially on weekdays. Book early for the best selection, and check for parking fees.
Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Temperatures can vary widely, so a warm sweater and a lighter shirt are both useful. Don't forget an umbrella, as spring showers are common.
Some restaurants along Lane Avenue and Northwest Boulevard start opening patios by late March, weather permitting. However, it's not guaranteed; many wait until April. Call ahead to confirm if outdoor seating is a priority.
Upper Arlington is about 5 miles northwest of downtown Columbus, roughly a 15-minute drive via SR-315. Traffic can extend this during rush hour, so allow extra time if you're heading to a specific event.
