Discover the Best Places to Travel in May in USA for Your Next Getaway

In my experience, May stands out as one of the prime months to travel across the USA. The days are getting longer, the weather is pleasantly mild in many regions, and you encounter significantly fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. Having lived here for several years and explored the country extensively, particularly in spring, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite destinations that truly shine in May, each offering a unique appeal during this time of year.

Annapolis, Maryland

Colorful historic houses in downtown Annapolis, Maryland

Downtown Annapolis waterfront area

Annapolis, Maryland in May with blooming trees

This quaint, relaxed capital of Maryland completely charmed me during my visit in May. I took a break here and found the city had truly come alive. The weather was mild, not intensely hot, gardens were blooming vibrantly, and the sailing season was just beginning. I thoroughly enjoyed scenic boat tours and watched regattas in the bay, all without the heavy summer crowds.

I was also pleasantly surprised by the fantastic festivals taking place in Annapolis throughout May. I particularly loved celebrating the May Day Flower Basket Celebration, where beautiful floral displays and decorations adorned the city. Other notable events this month included the vibrant First Sunday Arts Festivals, the Maryland Craft Beer Festival, and the Naval Academy Commissioning Week.
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I flew into Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI), drove about 30 minutes southeast, and spent a charming four days at the romantic 1313 West Luxury Boutique Hotel. Beyond the events, I explored the historic downtown, which was brimming with cozy cafes, unique independent boutiques, lively pubs, and fantastic farm-to-table eateries. I stopped at the friendly Anne Arundel County Farmers Market and savored the vibrant outdoor dining scene at City Dock.

• Location: Mid-Atlantic, East Coast, North USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Historic, nautical, and charming colonial town with upscale touches
• Average temperature: 18°C – 24°C

Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island, Rhode Island coastline view

Block Island, Rhode Island ferry arriving

I took a spring vacation to this small, scenic island in May. It had begun to bloom with spring wildflowers, the weather was mild and breezy, and importantly, the crowds were still light, just before the summer rush. This made it perfect for peaceful bike rides along scenic coastal roads and spotting migratory birds along the island’s nature trails.

I found excellent accommodation deals and truly loved the more intimate, local vibe the island offered during this month. I also had the chance to attend the interesting Block Island Film Festival (held towards the end of May), which showcased independent films, shorts, and documentaries. Planning travel for a relaxing break like this can be enhanced by considering options like the best scuba diving travel bag if water activities are part of your itinerary, even if diving isn’t the main focus.

I took a one-hour ferry ride from Newport, Rhode Island, and stayed for a very relaxing mini-break. I made the quirky-chic Block Island Beach House my base and enjoyed biking along the peaceful Greenway trails, exploring the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs, touring the historic Southeast Lighthouse, birdwatching at the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge, and browsing local art at the Spring Street Gallery before relaxing on the long sandy stretches of Crescent Beach.

• Location: New England, East Coast, North USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Peaceful, windswept island with Victorian charm
• Average temperature: 10°C – 18°C

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia skyline and cherry blossoms in spring

Street band playing in Philadelphia in spring

Independence Hall in Philadelphia

I took a trip to this sixth-largest US city during May and found the spring weather to be warm and pleasant. All the city’s historic landmarks were fully open, cherry blossoms and tulips brightly colored the parks, and lively outdoor events, food festivals, and sidewalk dining brought the streets to life.

I also noticed fewer crowds, good hotel deals, and a relaxed, local atmosphere that I truly appreciated. The Spruce Street Harbor Park and beer gardens were open, and the entire city felt like it had fully awakened after its winter slumber.

There was also a wealth of events I could engage with, including various food festivals, blooming tulip displays, sporting events, and vibrant park gatherings like the lively Roots Picnic at the Mann Center. My favorite festivals were the Philadelphia Beer Week, the energetic Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival, and the fun South Street Spring Festival and the South 9th Street Italian Market Festival.

I flew into Philadelphia International Airport and spent a fun three days there. I explored blooming gardens at Morris Arboretum, strolled through historic Old City to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, enjoyed outdoor dining at Rittenhouse Square, and discovered the cool shops and trendy eateries in the hip neighborhood of Fishtown.

• Location: Mid-Atlantic, East Coast, North USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Historic, gritty-yet-cultured city with strong arts and food scene
• Average temperature: 18°C – 24°C

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, Maryland boardwalk and beach view

Ocean City, Maryland boardwalk with amusement rides

I vacationed in this vibrant Atlantic resort town during May and found the temperatures were pleasant but not excessively hot, with manageable humidity. The beaches and boardwalk were open but significantly less crowded than during peak summer, and I discovered hotels offered better rates compared to the high season.

While it was a bit too chilly for comfortable swimming, it was warm enough to relax on the beach and enjoy activities like jet skiing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and parasailing.

I loved that May marked the start of the loggerhead sea turtle nesting season. There were also several early-season events taking place, such as Springfest, featuring live music, fresh food, and arts and crafts by the ocean, Cruisin’ Ocean City (a classic car show), and the large two-day Boardwalk Rock Festival.

I took a two-hour and 45-minute drive from Philadelphia and spent four days at the funky SeaLoft Oceanfront Hotel. Aside from the lively events, I strolled the iconic boardwalk, went on a dolphin-watching cruise, and visited the wild ponies and turtles on the nearby Assateague Island (just a short drive away). Couple travel map with pins could be a fun way to track destinations like Ocean City visited together.

• Location: Mid-Atlantic, East Coast, South USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Classic family-friendly beach resort town
• Average temperatures: 15°C – 25°C

My highlights…

• Discovering the scenic Northside Park, one of the prettiest green spaces in the city. I loved the Assawoman Bay views and biking on the well-maintained paved trails.

Edisto Island, South Carolina

Edisto Island, South Carolina shoreline with sea oats

Edisto Island, South Carolina marsh landscape

I found this quiet barrier island offered a beautiful May vacation experience! It was an excellent time to visit because the weather was warm and breezy, the beaches were peaceful just before the summer crowds arrived, the loggerhead sea turtle nesting season had commenced, and the temperatures were ideal for outdoor activities, including hiking.

I discovered some great events happening this month, including the family-friendly Turtlefest and Turtle Tide Art Reveal, which celebrated the return of loggerheads with educational activities and art displays, the Ag + Art Tour featuring local farms and artisans, and weekly Wednesday Markets at Bay Creek Park filled with fresh produce and crafts. Exploring the best places to travel in May USA often reveals unique local events like these.

I flew into Charleston International Airport (CHS), then drove 50 miles southwest to reach the scenic Edisto Island National Scenic Byway. I stayed for a very peaceful week, strolling the quiet shoreline of Edisto Beach, kayaking through the serene salt marshes, hiking the trails at Edisto Beach State Park, spotting nesting loggerhead turtles, and exploring the preserved beauty of Botany Bay Plantation, all without the summer crowds.

• Location: Southeast, East Coast, South USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Laid-back, rustic coastal retreat
• Average temperature: 24°C – 29°C

My personal highlights…

• Going on a guided eco-tour boat on the Edisto River and seeing tea-colored waters, swamp lilies, and hauntingly beautiful bald cypress trees draped with Spanish moss.

Sacramento, California

Old Town Sacramento waterfront area

Hip cafe interior in Sacramento

I took a weekend break to California’s capital city early in May, and it was a great choice! The weather was warm and sunny but not excessively hot, and there were fewer crowds than in the peak summer months. All the local farmers’ markets were in full swing, and it was perfect for exploring, enjoying outdoor dining at farm-to-fork restaurants, and cycling along the American River Parkway. The city was definitely buzzing with life after the colder months.

Besides finding great pre-summer deals on accommodation, I also found the flowers were blooming beautifully in the gardens and parks, and there were lots of lively events to attend. These included the Sacramento County Fair, FoodieLand Night Market filled with culinary delights, the energetic Sacramento Salsa Festival, and the free Jazz Music Festival. For those considering international urban adventures, checking out the best cities for solo travel Europe could be a complementary travel goal.

I drove six hours from Los Angeles and stayed at the trendy and unique 4-star Exchange Hotel. Beyond the events, I explored the pretty gardens of Capitol Park, strolled the Old Sacramento Waterfront, enjoyed sunset views along the American River Parkway, and took a boat cruise on the Sacramento River.

• Location: Northern California, West Coast, West USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Laid-back and sunny capital city with a farm-to-fork culture
• Average temperature: 20°C – 29°C

My favorite highlights…

Bend, Oregon

Bend, Oregon riverfront and mountains in spring

Spring blooms along a path in Bend, Oregon

I took a trip to this cool small city in Oregon during spring and found that May offered sunny and mild weather with lower humidity, perfect for longer hikes. Wildflowers were blooming, bird and wildlife activity increased, and accommodation rates were better just before the peak season.

The hiking and biking trails and riverfront patios had begun to reopen, allowing me to enjoy the city without the summer crowds. There were also events happening, including the free Bend Spring Festival, the fun SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle, the craft beer and music festival Bend Brews & Beyond, and other music events.

I drove just over three hours from Portland and made Bend my base for an awesome four days. In addition to the events, I hiked the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park, sipped craft beer on a sunny patio along the Bend Ale Trail, and rafted down the Deschutes River (the rivers flowed fast this month due to recent snowmelt).

• Location: Pacific Northwest, North USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Outdoorsy and trendy mountain town
• Average temperature: 15°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

Texas Hill Country

Texas Hill Country wildflowers, likely bluebonnets

I visited this picturesque region in Central Texas and found that in May, the weather was warm and sunny but without the intense summer heat. The photogenic wildflowers like bluebonnets still blanketed the hills, and the temperatures during this spring shoulder season (which runs from late March through May) were perfect for a variety of activities. These included hiking, cycling, river tubing, exploring wineries, paddling in natural pools, birdwatching, taking scenic drives, and camping.

I loved that there were fewer crowds than in the summer, offering good deals on accommodation amidst lush spring landscapes. There were great accommodation options from treehouses and yurts to boutique hotels and luxury resorts. May also featured lots of spring events, such as the Kerrville Folk Festival, the vibrant Whimsy & Wonder Art & Music Festival, and lively Cinco de Mayo Celebrations.

I flew into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and stayed for a beautiful 10-day vacation. In addition to the events, I took a scenic wildflower drive through Willow City Loop, sipped wine in Fredericksburg, swam in the crystal-clear waters of Jacob’s Well, hiked Enchanted Rock for panoramic views, and enjoyed live music in the legendary music town of Luckenbach.

• Location in the USA: Central Texas, South USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Scenic and rustic region with wineries and German heritage
• Average temperature: 18°C – 29°C

My favorite highlights…

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia historic district square with statue

River Street in Savannah, Georgia waterfront

Savannah, Georgia square with fountain and blooming trees in spring

I found that this elegant historic city made for a wonderful spring trip. In May, the weather was warm and sunny, with fragrant magnolias, azaleas, and jasmine in full bloom. This made it perfect for strolling through the shady squares of the historic district, exploring, and enjoying outdoor dining under moss-draped oaks before the peak summer humidity set in. Couple travel map with pins can be a lovely way for couples to track their visits to romantic spots like Savannah.

I found the accommodation prices to be very reasonable, as it was just before the peak season. There were also some lovely festivals taking place, including the fun Annual Savannah Scottish Games, the vibrant Mexican Cinco de Mayo Celebrations, the cute Doggie Carnival in Forsyth Park, and the lively Art & Soul Music Festival at City Market.

I flew into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and spent four days exploring. Aside from the events, I also strolled through the flower-filled squares of the Historic District, took a romantic riverboat cruise along the Savannah River, explored Bonaventure Cemetery’s gothic beauty, and enjoyed alfresco meals along River Street under blooming magnolias.

• Location: Georgia, Southeast, East Coast, South USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Romantic and historic Southern city
• Average temperature: 24°C – 29°C

My personal highlights…

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park mountain view with haze

During May, I found this scenic mountain park offered mild and comfortable weather, perfect for hiking and all the available outdoor activities. Wildflowers and mountain laurels were in full bloom, waterfalls flowed strongly from spring rains, and I could hike the trails peacefully without the peak season crowds.

I also loved that it was an excellent time for bird and wildlife watching, with trees covered in lush green foliage. There were also many spring events, including Wildflower Weekend, guided Twilight Hiking, and the nearby lively Town of Shenandoah Memorial Festival.

I flew into Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and drove 1 hour and 30 minutes to the Park’s Front Royal Entrance, making it my base for a beautiful four days. I hiked blooming trails like Dark Hollow Falls and Hawksbill Summit, took a scenic drive along Skyline Drive with incredible spring views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and spotted deer and black bears in Big Meadows.

• Location: Mid-Atlantic, East Coast, South USA
• Website
• Vibe: Serene and scenic mountain escape
• Location Map and Directions
• Average temperature: 16°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Driving the scenic Skyline Drive – I loved how it wound gently through tunnel-like canopies of oak, hickory, and maple trees that shimmered with golden light in the late afternoon.

Monterey, California

Monterey, California coastline with rocky shore

Cannery Row street in Monterey, California

Rocky coastline near Monterey, California in spring

I stopped off at this quirky coastal city on a spring road trip during May, and it was a great choice! The coastal weather was cool and pleasant, and there were fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring and driving before the peak summer tourism began.

I also really appreciated the reasonably priced accommodation options and found there was less fog and clearer days than often experienced in the summer. Wildflowers were in bloom along the coastal trails, and in May, humpback and blue whales migrated through Monterey Bay, making it the perfect time for whale watching!

There were also lots of spring events I got involved with. These included the lively California Roots Music and Arts Festival featuring various music genres, the Monterey Biennial Opening Celebration held at the Monterey Museum of Art, and the fun 805 Night Market. Considering the diverse types of trips travelers take, from coastal getaways to diving adventures, researching the best scuba diving travel bag can be a useful step for those planning water-centric activities.

I drove five hours on Highway One from Los Angeles and stayed for a long weekend. I strolled along the coastal trail and spotted wild sea otters and seals in their natural habitat, enjoyed a peaceful spring walk through the blooming gardens of Pacific Grove, explored the tide pools at Point Lobos, and took in the stunning ocean views along 17-Mile Drive.

• Location: Central California, West Coast, West USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Quirky and cultured seaside town
• Average temperatures: 10°C to 18°C

My highlights…

Yosemite National Park, California

Half Dome view from Tunnel View in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley floor with river and mountains in spring

I took a mini-break to this world-famous national park during May, just before the peak-time crowds arrived, and it turned out to be a great choice!

I found that the waterfalls were at their most powerful from the spring snowmelt, pretty wildflowers were blooming across the meadows, and the weather was mild and pleasant (not searingly hot like it can be in summer!). Most of the park’s scenic roads and hiking trails had also started to reopen after winter closures.

Wildlife was more active this month (though we had to keep an eye out for bears!). I also found that accommodation rates were slightly cheaper as it wasn’t peak season yet, and the temperatures were warm but not too hot, making it perfect for hiking and outdoor activities like rock climbing, biking, camping, and rafting. When searching for the best places to travel in May USA, national parks like Yosemite in spring often top the list for outdoor enthusiasts.

I drove four hours from San Francisco and spent a nature-focused five days here. I hiked to Yosemite Falls, which were at peak flow, enjoyed the wildflower displays in Cook’s Meadow, took in sweeping views from Glacier Point, hiked the peaceful Mirror Lake Loop, and drove the breathtaking Tioga Pass.

• Location: Eastern Central California, West Coast, West USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Majestic and awe-inspiring wilderness
• Average temperatures: 16°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Stopping at Tunnel View on State Highway 41 and seeing truly Instagram-worthy views of El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and Half Dome (my photo is above – it’s one of the most iconic viewpoints in the park!).

Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas skyline and bridge

Barton Creek Greenbelt bridge in Austin

Lady Bird Lake with Austin skyline in summer

When I visited the vibrant capital of Texas in May, I found the temperatures were just right (unlike the intense heat I experienced in summer). Days were warm and sunny, the city’s parks and lakes were perfect for outdoor adventures, and the city buzzed with live music, food, and cultural festivals that showcased its famously eclectic and energetic spirit.

I loved that I could join in an eclectic mix of festivals. There was a seriously packed calendar including the bustling Spring Pecan Street Festival, the star-studded iHeartCountry Festival, the lively Fiesta Austin Cinco de Mayo, the flavorful Hot Luck Festival, the vibrant ILLfest, and the homegrown True Texas Tunes. Pool parties were also in full swing! For city exploration and vibrant culture, places like Austin are often highlighted among the best cities for solo travel Europe, though Austin offers its unique Texan flair.

I flew into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and spent an awesome long weekend here. Aside from the events, I paddle-boarded on Lady Bird Lake, strolled through the blooming Zilker Botanical Garden, caught live music on South Congress, and explored the fantastic restaurants and trendy shops downtown.

• Location in the USA: Central Texas, South USA
• Location and Directions
• Vibe: Energetic and eclectic city
• Average temperatures: 18°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the trendy LINE Hotel – I really liked the industrial-chic decor, awesome rooftop pool, and gorgeous views of Lady Bird Lake.
• Checking out the food cart pod “The Picnic” (located near Zilker Park). The Hot & Crunchy Avocado Cone from Mighty Cone and the heavenly Double Dose chocolate cake from Hey Cupcake were particular highlights!

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire lakeside view

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire charming town street

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire lake with docks

I visited this charming lakeside town in May because I found the pretty town had begun to awaken for the warmer season. I loved that it maintained a more peaceful, local community feel just before the summer crowds arrived.

The mild weather was perfect for exploring the blooming lakeside trails and going on boat tours on Lake Winnipesaukee. I was able to enjoy its quaint shops, historic charm, and picturesque waterfront in relative peace without many other tourists around.

There were also some great deals on accommodation, and I loved that there were quite a few spring events this month. These included local farmer’s markets that start opening in the spring (the Wolfeboro Area Farmers’ Market was my favorite). There was also the charming Lakes Region Spring Craft Fair, the spirited Great Smith River Canoe and Kayak Race, and the patriotic Memorial Day Celebration. Understanding the best time to visit different locations, whether it’s a lakeside town or considering when is the best time to travel to Cabo, helps in planning for optimal weather and crowd levels.

I flew into Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, then drove 1.5 hours and spent four days here. I enjoyed peaceful boat rides on Lake Winnipesaukee, relaxed on the small sandy Brewster Beach, walked the blooming trails of the Cotton Valley Rail Trail, and soaked up the small-town charm, quaint cafes, and antique stores.

• Location in the USA: New England, East Coast, North USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Quaint and upscale lakeside town
• Average temperatures: 15°C – 20°C

My highlights…

Port Aransas, Texas

Port Aransas, Texas beach and coastline

Boats docked in Port Aransas, Texas

Port Aransas, Texas beach view in May

This laid-back beach town on Mustang Island made for a gorgeous May vacation. I found that the weather was warm but not too hot or humid, the Gulf waters were ideal for swimming and dolphin-watching tours, the beaches were less crowded than in peak summer, and I loved the relaxed island atmosphere, which was perfect for an early-season beach getaway.

Accommodation was reasonably priced with plenty of availability. I discovered the town hosted fun coastal events such as the colorful Spring Kite Fly, the energetic Color Splash Dash, and the musical PalmFest Summer of Music.

I flew into Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP), then drove 45 minutes via Highway 361 and stayed for a dreamy week. Besides relaxing on the wide sandy shores of Port Aransas Beach and enjoying the fun, I also took a dolphin-watching cruise from Fisherman’s Wharf and discovered the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, which featured an awesome boardwalk crossing alligator-inhabited wetlands. For those seeking different coastal or water experiences, researching options like the best scuba diving travel bag might align with planning for such trips.

• Location in the USA: South Texas, Gulf Coast, South USA
• Vibe: Relaxed Gulf Coast beach town
• Location Map and Directions
• Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C

My personal highlights…

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta city skyline

Atlanta Botanical Garden Chihuly glass sculpture

Piedmont Park with Atlanta skyline in summer

I found that ‘Hotlanta’ is an awesome year-round travel destination with a moderate subtropical climate, but I much prefer visiting in May, as the summers can be very hot and humid. In May, the weather was just pleasantly warm and sunny, the city’s parks were in full spring bloom, and I found there was a lively lineup of outdoor festivals, music concerts, and patio dining that gave the city a special kind of energy.

I really liked that I found a hotel for an affordable price (since it wasn’t quite peak season yet!) and I got to join in some awesome events. There was the soulful Atlanta Jazz Festival, the artistic Decatur Arts Festival, the cultural Atlanta Caribbean Carnival, the creative Atlanta Fringe Festival, the family-friendly Kirkwood Spring Fling, the whimsical Georgia Renaissance Festival, and the quirky MomoCon. For exploring vibrant US cities with a rich cultural scene, Atlanta offers fantastic entertainment options, complementing interests in destinations like the best cities for solo travel Europe.

I flew into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and stayed for a fun four days. Aside from the events, I wandered the Atlanta BeltLine under blooming trees, went to an outdoor music concert at Piedmont Park, explored colorful exhibits at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and sipped cocktails at rooftop bars.

• Location in the USA: Southeast, South USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Bustling and modern Southern metropolis
• Average temperatures: 18°C to 27°C

My favorite highlights…

Sanibel Island, Florida

Blind Pass Beach on Sanibel Island, Florida

Sanibel Island, Florida beach with shells

I visited this peaceful Gulf Coast island on a spring vacation and found that the weather is warm and sunny in May but with fewer crowds. The Gulf waters were perfect for swimming and shelling, wildlife was active in places like J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, and I could enjoy peaceful bike rides, uncrowded beaches, and Insta-worthy sunsets in a laid-back tropical setting.

Accommodation was also more reasonably priced this month, as it was just after the peak tourist season (December to April), and the humidity was much more comfortable. I also discovered lots of events taking place, which included the community-spirited Islands Night baseball game and parade, creative Shellcrafter’s workshops, artistic exhibits at BIG ARTS, and the busy Sanibel Island Farmers Market. When planning travel to beautiful coastal spots, remembering practical items like the best scuba diving travel bag can be helpful, even for activities like shelling or gentle water sports.

I flew into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, drove approximately 40 minutes to reach the Sanibel Causeway, and stayed for five days. Aside from the events, I enjoyed relaxing and shelling on the white sands of Bowman’s Beach, spotted manatees and birds at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, and biked scenic trails across the island.

• Location: Southwest Florida, Gulf Coast, South USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Peaceful and tropical island escape
• Average temperature: 21°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

Monument Valley, Arizona

Monument Valley desert landscape with buttes

Road leading into Monument Valley, Arizona

I took a trip to this scenic desert region in May and found that the weather was warm but not too hot, making it more comfortable for exploring and longer hikes. Skies were clear, offering truly breathtaking views of the towering sandstone buttes. It was an ideal time for scenic drives, photography, and guided Navajo tours without the intense summer crowds.

I also found the soft spring lighting was perfect for photography. While there, I discovered several events taking place, including the athletic Hashkènìinii Road Race as part of the Tour de Rez and the History Hike, an organized hike uncovering the history of the park. For adventurers mapping their journeys, a couple travel map with pins can be a great way to visualize visited destinations like Monument Valley.

I drove three hours from Flagstaff as part of a road trip and stayed for an Insta-worthy two days. I enjoyed a guided tour through the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, gazed in awe at iconic formations like the Mittens and Totem Pole, drove the incredible 17-mile Valley Loop Road, and hiked the scenic Wildcat Trail.

• Location in the USA: Northern Arizona, Southwest, West USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: Iconic and otherworldly desert landscape
• Average temperatures: 16°C to 27°C

My highlights…

• Staying at The View Hotel – the valley views from my balcony were breathtaking!
• Gazing at an Instagram-worthy sunset from John Ford’s Point, one of the most iconic views in the valley.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas Strip at night

The Venetian Hotel exterior in Las Vegas

I loved visiting this fun-filled city in May. The weather was warm but not scorching (September to November is another cooler time to visit), making it perfect for poolside lounging, exploring the famous Strip, enjoying world-class shows and fine dining, and even taking nearby day trips before the peak summer heat sets in.

I was awesome that I found some enticing pre-summer deals on hotels. I discovered lots of events taking place, including the high-energy Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC), the nostalgic Lovers & Friends Festival featuring R&B and hip-hop legends, the community-spirited Punk Rock Bowling & Music Festival, the prestigious American Music Awards, and star-studded residencies by famous music artists throughout the month. Pool parties were also in full swing! From vibrant city life to exploring historical sites or national parks, discovering the best places to travel in May USA offers diverse experiences.

I drove four hours from Los Angeles and spent an awesome long weekend here! I loved exploring all the incredible hotels (especially the gorgeous Venetian and Bellagio), dining at celebrity chef restaurants, checking out the pool party at Encore Beach Club, and catching a stunning Cirque du Soleil show!

• Location: Southern Nevada, Southwest, West USA
• Location Map and Directions
• Vibe: High-energy and glitzy entertainment capital
• Average temperatures: 16°C to 32°C

My highlights…

Conclusion

From coastal charm and historic cities to vibrant metropolises and stunning national parks, May offers a unique window to explore the USA. The milder weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes, coupled with a variety of local events and festivals, make it an ideal month for travel. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, outdoor adventure, or cultural experiences, these destinations provide memorable opportunities before the summer heat and crowds arrive.