14 Perfect Picks for Best Places to Travel in May in the USA

May is one of the most underrated times to explore the U.S.—spring is in full swing, the weather is mild, flowers are blooming, and summer crowds haven’t taken over just yet. Whether you’re craving a beach escape, a scenic hike, or a vibrant city adventure, there’s a destination calling your name.

If you’re wondering about the best places to travel in May in the USA, you’re in luck. This guide highlights some of the top spots worth visiting during this perfect travel window, so you can make the most of late spring before the rush of summer begins.

1. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston in May is nothing short of enchanting. The city is alive with color—vibrant gardens bloom in every corner, and wisteria and azaleas spill over wrought-iron fences in historic neighborhoods. The weather is comfortably warm, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to low 80s and a refreshing sea breeze. May also arrives before the heavy heat and humidity of summer, making it ideal for outdoor exploration.

What to do:

• Wander the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, where centuries-old buildings house art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafés.

• Visit Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, where the spring blooms are at their peak and shaded trails wind through live oak trees dripping with Spanish moss.

• Take a carriage tour or a harbor cruise for a new perspective on Charleston’s rich history.

• Don’t miss the Spoleto Festival USA, one of the country’s leading performing arts festivals, featuring everything from opera and jazz to dance and theater.

Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or simply in search of romance, Charleston’s blend of Southern charm and scenic beauty makes it a perfect May destination.

2. San Diego, California

San Diego is known for its year-round sunshine, but May hits the sweet spot—pleasant temperatures in the 70s, fewer tourists than the summer season, and clear skies before the “June Gloom” sets in. It’s an ideal time for beach days, waterfront strolls, and outdoor adventures without the peak-season hustle.

What to do:

• Spend a full day in Balboa Park, a sprawling urban oasis with 17 museums, lush gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

• Hit the beach at La Jolla Cove or Coronado Island, both offering postcard-perfect views and great conditions for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing.

• Enjoy a flavorful Cinco de Mayo celebration in Old Town, filled with mariachi music, street vendors, and authentic Mexican food.

• Catch a Padres game at Petco Park, one of the most scenic ballparks in America.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids, San Diego in May serves up sun, surf, and endless activities with a laid-back coastal vibe.

3. Asheville, North Carolina

Tucked into the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a haven for outdoor lovers, artists, and anyone in search of peaceful mountain air. May is one of the most visually stunning months to visit, with lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, and waterfall-fed rivers flowing full from spring rains. The weather is mild and fresh, making it perfect for hikes, bike rides, and beer garden hangouts.

What to do:

• Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” and stop at scenic overlooks surrounded by springtime blossoms.

• Visit the Biltmore Estate, where the formal gardens are bursting with tulips, azaleas, and roses in full bloom.

• Hike to Craggy Gardens or Looking Glass Falls for panoramic views and vibrant natural beauty.

• Experience Asheville’s legendary craft beer scene with a self-guided tour of South Slope breweries, or enjoy live music at an outdoor patio.

Asheville offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and small-city energy—making it an underrated gem for May travelers.

4. New York City, New York

There’s no time quite like May to explore the Big Apple. The cold gray of winter is long gone, and the city bursts back to life with sunshine, blossoms, and outdoor energy. With highs in the 60s and 70s, it’s ideal for walking, sightseeing, and soaking up everything from Broadway to bagels.

What to do:

• Enjoy a peaceful morning in Central Park, where cherry blossoms, tulips, and lush greenery make the paths and lawns picture-perfect.

• Take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty or stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge in ideal walking weather.

• Visit outdoor markets like Smorgasburg or the Union Square Greenmarket to sample the best in NYC’s seasonal food scene.

• Head to a rooftop bar in Manhattan or Brooklyn for a warm evening drink with skyline views.

• Enjoy Memorial Day weekend parades and events across the five boroughs.

New York in May combines the buzz of the city with the softness of spring—a perfect time for first-time visitors and seasoned locals alike to fall in love with it all over again.

5. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona’s dramatic red rock landscapes and spiritual energy draw visitors year-round, but May might just be the best time to go. The temperature hovers in the 70s and 80s—warm enough for comfort, but not yet scorching like in summer. This makes it a dream for hiking, photography, and outdoor wellness experiences.

What to do:

• Hike world-famous trails like Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, or Boynton Canyon, where the rock formations glow in the golden light.

• Take a Jeep tour through the desert or join a vortex meditation experience for something more spiritually immersive.

• Browse Sedona’s many art galleries and local markets featuring Native American crafts and healing crystals.

• Treat yourself to a massage or sound bath at a luxury spa resort tucked into the rocks.

Whether you’re in search of natural beauty, inner peace, or an active adventure, Sedona in May offers a one-of-a-kind escape in every sense.

6. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago comes alive in May, shaking off the winter chill and embracing spring warmth, outdoor events, and lakefront energy. It’s one of the best times to visit before summer crowds swell and humidity creeps in. The city bursts with color from flower-filled parks to bustling patios and art fairs.

What to do:

• Stroll through Millennium Park, where tulips bloom beneath the iconic Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) sculpture.

• Cruise along the Chicago River on a guided architecture boat tour—arguably the best way to take in the city’s skyline.

• Wander the Lakefront Trail by bike or on foot, with scenic stops at Navy Pier and Grant Park.

• Eat your way through neighborhoods like Pilsen, Logan Square, or Greektown, known for their rich cultural food scenes.

• Enjoy street festivals like Mayfest and catch early-season games at Wrigley Field.

In May, Chicago balances big-city excitement with springtime serenity—perfect for art lovers, foodies, and architecture buffs alike.

7. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion in May is a nature lover’s dream: comfortable temperatures, full-flowing rivers, blooming desert plants, and fewer visitors than the summer rush. Days are sunny and ideal for hiking, while nights are crisp and perfect for stargazing under Utah’s dark skies.

What to do:

• Hike epic trails like Angels Landing, The Narrows, or the scenic Emerald Pools Trail.

• Take the Zion Shuttle to easily access popular trailheads while enjoying informative narration.

• Spot wildlife like bighorn sheep, mule deer, and desert birds.

• Camp beneath towering red cliffs, or stay in nearby Springdale for rustic charm and comfort.

May offers the sweet spot between accessibility and adventure in Zion—before the heat and crowds of peak season kick in.

8. Napa Valley, California

May in Napa Valley is lush, green, and vibrant. The vines are in full leaf, the skies are clear, and the days are warm but not hot—ideal for wine tasting, dining al fresco, and scenic drives. It’s also a quieter time compared to the summer crush of tourists.

What to do:

• Take a vineyard tour and sample world-class wines from both major estates and small, family-run wineries.

• Enjoy a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train, which pairs fine dining with gorgeous vineyard views.

• Picnic under the sun at wineries with sprawling grounds like Castello di Amorosa or Domaine Carneros.

• Attend seasonal events like BottleRock Napa Valley, a music, food, and wine festival that draws national talent.

If you’re looking for a relaxing and refined May getaway with world-class flavor, Napa Valley is your glass-half-full destination.

9. Savannah, Georgia

Like Charleston, Savannah flourishes in May. The temperatures are warm but bearable, and the city’s historic beauty, lush greenery, and riverfront charm feel tailor-made for springtime exploration. It’s the perfect place to slow down, soak in the scenery, and savor the South.

What to do:

• Take a walking tour through historic squares filled with monuments, fountains, and blooming azaleas.

• Visit Forsyth Park, where spring gardens surround the iconic white fountain.

• Dine riverside at sunset, or grab a drink to-go (yes, it’s legal here) and stroll along River Street.

• Join a ghost tour for a fun and spooky way to learn Savannah’s layered history.

May is also a great time to enjoy the city before the humidity of summer sets in—when the city still feels fresh, floral, and full of charm.

10. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Stepping onto Mackinac Island in May feels like stepping back in time. The island wakes up from its winter slumber just in time for spring blooms, quiet streets, and fresh lake breezes. With no cars allowed and Victorian architecture all around, it’s peaceful, romantic, and truly unique.

What to do:

• Rent a bike or horse-drawn carriage to explore the island’s scenic trails and shoreline.

• Visit Fort Mackinac, a historic military outpost with reenactments and views over the water.

• Sample the island’s famous fudge shops and browse quaint local boutiques.

• Enjoy the start of Lilac Season, when fragrant purple blossoms line walkways and gardens.

With its slower pace, natural beauty, and old-world charm, Mackinac Island in May offers a sweet start to summer on its own terms.

11. Austin, Texas

Before the full heat of a Texas summer settles in, May offers perfect patio weather, blooming landscapes, and an active local scene. It’s one of the best times to explore Austin’s blend of nature, culture, and incredible food—without needing to hide in the AC.

What to do:

• Enjoy live music at local favorites like The Continental Club, or catch an outdoor concert at Zilker Park.

• Paddleboard or kayak along Lady Bird Lake, with views of the downtown skyline.

• Indulge in Austin’s legendary food truck scene—think tacos, barbecue, and more tacos.

• Browse South Congress Avenue for quirky shops, vintage finds, and great coffee.

• Check out Pecan Street Festival, held in May, featuring art, live music, and handmade goods.

In May, Austin hits that sweet spot where it feels alive but not overheated—perfect for exploring, dancing, or just lounging with good food and music.

12. Acadia National Park, Maine

As one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sunrise, Acadia in May is cool, peaceful, and bursting with coastal beauty, crisp air, and spring wildlife. With trails opening and crowds still light, it’s a wonderful time for a serene national park experience.

What to do:

• Hike up Cadillac Mountain for sunrise views over the Atlantic (you may be one of the first in the country to see the sun that day).

• Wander along Ocean Path Trail, which hugs the rugged coastline with endless photo ops.

• Explore the carriage roads by bike, surrounded by spring greenery and blooming wildflowers.

• Birdwatchers can spot species migrating through the park in late spring.

• Visit the charming town of Bar Harbor for fresh seafood and harbor views.

May offers the magic of Maine’s coastline before summer crowds—and it’s an ideal time for reflection, inspiration, and reconnection with nature.

13. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe in May is a land of contrasts—you can still ski in the morning and paddleboard in the afternoon. As snow begins to melt and trails reopen, you get the best of both worlds: snow-dusted peaks and sparkling water, all with fewer tourists.

What to do:

• Hit the slopes at Heavenly or Squaw Valley, where spring skiing sometimes stretches into May.

• Hike Eagle Falls Trail or Emerald Bay State Park, with wildflowers just starting to bloom.

• Go kayaking or paddleboarding in the clear, cool waters of Sand Harbor.

• Relax at a cozy lakeside lodge or unwind in a hot tub with a mountain view.

• Try your luck at one of the nearby casinos or enjoy dinner with a view in South Lake Tahoe.

If you’re torn between a snow retreat and a spring getaway, Tahoe lets you do both—sometimes in the same day.

14. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

May is when Yellowstone truly comes to life—snow has started to melt, wildlife is active, and waterfalls are at their most dramatic. With many roads and lodges reopening for the season, it’s a great time to see the park’s iconic sights without peak summer traffic.

What to do:

• Watch Old Faithful erupt in rhythmic bursts and explore nearby geysers and hot springs.

• Hike to Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where snowmelt feeds dramatic cascades.

• Spot wildlife like grizzly bears, bison, elk, and wolves, especially near Lamar Valley.

• Visit Mammoth Hot Springs, where steaming terraces flow like frozen waterfalls.

• Enjoy relatively quiet trails and scenic drives through awe-inspiring landscapes.

Yellowstone in May is raw, wild, and awakening—an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking adventure, solitude, and natural beauty.