March is the perfect time to get out and explore Southern California by train. With mild weather, coastal celebrations, food festivals, and special event service, Metrolink makes it easy to turn weekends into memorable spring adventures—no car required.
March 8–14, 2026
Orange County Restaurant Week
Theme: Food, Downtowns & Local Flavor
Orange County Restaurant Week brings together prix-fixe menus and special offerings from restaurants across the region—making it a perfect add-on to any Metrolink day trip.
Metrolink-friendly dining hubs:
- Anaheim Station – Downtown Anaheim & Packing House nearby
- Irvine Station – Dining districts are a short rideshare away
- Orange and Santa Ana stations – Walkable downtown restaurants and cafés
Tip:
Pair Restaurant Week with a museum visit, shopping stroll, or afternoon coffee near the station for a full car-free day out.
March 21, 2026
Annual Swallows Day Parade & Mercado
Theme: History, Community & Spring Traditions
One of the nation’s largest non-motorized parades returns to downtown San Juan Capistrano, celebrating the legendary return of the swallows. The festivities continue with a lively Mercado featuring food, music, shopping, and cultural activities.
How to get there by Metrolink:
- Ride directly to San Juan Capistrano Station
- The parade route, Mercado, and Mission San Juan Capistrano are steps from the station
Why it’s a can’t-miss train trip:
No transfers needed—just step off the train and into one of Southern California’s most charming spring celebrations.
March 28–29, 2026
Theme: Music, Nightlife & Special Event Service
Experience a high-energy electronic music festival with immersive stages, art installations, and late-night vibes at the NOS Events Center.
How to get there by Metrolink:
- Metrolink offers special event service to San Bernardino
- Enjoy late-night return trains, making it easy to attend without driving
Perfect for:
Festival-goers looking for a safe, stress-free way to enjoy a full weekend of music.
March Travel Tips
🌼 Spring weather:
March in Southern California is usually mild—ideal for coastal walks, outdoor patios, parades, and harbor strolls.
🚆 Weekend Day Pass:
Traveling on Saturday or Sunday? The $10 SoCal Day Pass offers unlimited rides all day, and kids 17 & under ride free with a fare-paying adult.
📱 Plan on the go:
Use the Metrolink app to purchase tickets, plan trips, and check service alerts right from your phone.
More to Explore!
8 Low-Cost Cultural Gems in Downtown LA You Can Reach by Metrolink
A self-guided itinerary for locals and visitors to explore LA’s museums, history, and street art—all walkable or just one train transfer from Union Station.
Explore Downtown LA's Architectural Icons, Car-Free with Metrolink
Downtown Los Angeles is a living museum of architectural styles—from Beaux-Arts elegance to Art Deco grandeur to modern marvels like Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall.
How to Take a Car-Free Weekend Day Trip from Los Angeles to Salt Creek Beach
You can reach one of Orange County’s most beautiful beaches, Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point, entirely car-free using the Metrolink train and the Laguna Niguel Summer Trolley.
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