Top 10 Places to Visit in USA in May

May is the perfect time to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant cities of the USA. With pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and exciting events, it’s an ideal month for travel. Looking to relax on sunny beaches, hike through scenic national parks, or immerse yourself in lively cultural festivals, the USA offers something for every type of traveler. Top 10 places to visit in the USA this May for an unforgettable experience.

Best Picks for Where to Travel in the USA this May:

Best City: New Orleans, Louisiana
Best Beachy Road Trip: Key West, Florida
Best Hikes: Kauai, Hawai’i
Best Photography: White Sands National Park, New Mexico
Best Flowers: Holland, Michigan

Kauai, Hawai’i

Hawaiian Islands transition from spring to summer, temperatures increase on Kauai during the month of May but remain relatively mild. Picture opening the windows in your seaside bungalow to let the salty breeze in during the day, keeping a fan going to keep cool at night. Kauai sees less rain in May than March and April, making for sunny days perfect for hiking, sailing, hitting the beach, and all the other exciting outdoors activities on the island.

Alaskan Cruise

May marks the beginning of cruise season in Alaska. If you didn’t know that was a thing, neither did I! This is the time when the ice melts just enough for cruise ships to pass through their chosen routes, and if you want first dibs, book your Alaskan cruise in May.

Activities on an Alaskan Cruise:

Glacier Viewing: Experience stunning glaciers up close, such as the famous Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park, with dramatic icebergs and wildlife.
Whale Watching: Alaska is known for its incredible whale-watching opportunities, where you can see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life in their natural habitat.
Wildlife Watching: Spot bears, moose, bald eagles, and more as you cruise along Alaska’s rugged coastline and fjords.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle through serene Alaskan waters, enjoying breathtaking landscapes and observing local wildlife.
Shore Excursions: Explore charming towns like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, and enjoy activities such as dog sledding, fishing, and hiking.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to go on an Alaskan Cruise is in May, which is considered one of the best places to visit in May. The weather is cooler, but the days are getting longer, and the landscapes are lush with spring’s early bloom. The crowds are fewer, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful and scenic cruise experience.

San Francisco, California

In May you can expect to experience some of San Francisco’s best weather of the year. Sunny days with temperatures around the mid-60s make it just the right time to explore this hip and colorful city. Bring some layers to cozy up during chilly nights, though.

You’ll see flowers in bloom throughout town, which will add a dash of whimsy to your trip. May is also an exciting month for festival lovers, as Carnaval in the Mission District falls on Memorial Day weekend, celebrating the city’s rich Latin American and Caribbean culture.

May is also the ideal time to head out on a boat cruise to see San Francisco from the water. Soaking up the sun and enjoying the scenic views of the bay is a must-do.

Activities in San Francisco, California:

Golden Gate Bridge: Walk or bike across this iconic bridge for stunning views of the city and the bay.
Alcatraz Island Tour: Visit the infamous former prison on Alcatraz Island, complete with an informative audio guide about its fascinating history.
Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39: Explore the bustling waterfront area, home to seafood restaurants, shops, and sea lions lounging on the docks.
Ride a Cable Car: Experience the historic San Francisco cable car system while taking in the city’s hilly landscape.
Golden Gate Park: Spend the day in one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., offering gardens, museums, and outdoor activities.

Best Time to Visit: San Francisco is one of the best places to visit in May due to its mild weather, with temperatures averaging between 50°F and 70°F. May marks the start of spring, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities without the summer crowds. The city’s iconic fog is typically less intense, and you can explore its landmarks in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Big Sur, California

Visiting Big Sur in May means you’ll be catching some gorgeous weather, right before it gets super busy with summertime tourists. If you haven’t considered adding it to your California road-trip itinerary, this is your sign to do so.

The stretch of two-lane highway that winds along the rugged Cali coast between Carmel and San Simeon is what we know as the Big Sur area, and it offers some stunning views of the ocean, like the one at McWay Falls. Make sure to check out the hidden gem Pfeiffer Beach, where the sand looks purple and the sunsets will take your breath away.

May temperatures are mild here, with blankets of fog moving in during the evening until dawn. This might make some travelers cranky, but I think fog is kind of beautiful and sets the scene for a sweet late spring/early summer adventure.

Activities in Big Sur, California:

Bixby Creek Bridge: Stop at one of the most photographed spots on the Pacific Coast Highway for stunning views of the rugged coastline and Pacific Ocean.
McWay Falls: Hike to this iconic waterfall, which cascades directly into the ocean, located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
Point Lobos State Reserve: Explore the reserve’s scenic trails, offering wildlife viewing, coastal cliffs, and the opportunity to spot seals and sea otters.
Hiking at Garrapata State Park: Enjoy hiking trails with panoramic views of the ocean, wildflower fields, and dramatic cliffs.
Explore the Henry Miller Memorial Library: Visit this quirky library that celebrates the works of author Henry Miller and the beauty of Big Sur’s creative spirit.

Best Time to Visit: Big Sur is one of the best places to visit in May due to its mild weather and fewer crowds. May offers pleasant temperatures, perfect for hiking and exploring the breathtaking landscapes. The coastal wildflowers are in bloom, and the views of the Pacific Ocean are clearer and more vibrant than in the foggy summer months, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada, is a city that thrives on excitement, entertainment, and adventure, offering visitors an endless array of activities and attractions. Known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” Las Vegas is famous for its vibrant nightlife, luxurious hotels, world-class dining, and legendary shows. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, unforgettable shows, or relaxing by a poolside, Las Vegas has something for everyone.

What to See in Las Vegas, Nevada:

Las Vegas is a city of excitement and endless entertainment, making it one of the best places to visit in May. Drawn to the dazzling lights of the Strip or the natural beauty just outside the city, there’s something for everyone.

The Las Vegas Strip: Famous for its towering hotels, casinos, and grand entertainment, the Strip is a must-see. Don’t miss the Bellagio Fountains or the vibrant atmosphere of resorts like The Venetian and The Cosmopolitan.
Fremont Street Experience: Dive into Las Vegas history with a visit to Fremont Street, where you can enjoy the stunning Viva Vision light show, street performers, and vintage casinos.
The High Roller: Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city from the world’s tallest observation wheel, especially beautiful at night when the city lights shine.
Cirque du Soleil Shows: Las Vegas is home to mesmerizing Cirque du Soleil performances, like “O” at the Bellagio, where acrobatics and stunning visuals take center stage.
The Neon Museum: Take a trip through time by visiting this outdoor museum, which showcases vintage neon signs and offers a fascinating look at the city’s evolution.
Red Rock Canyon: Escape the city and explore the rugged beauty of Red Rock Canyon, perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking in the desert landscape.

Best Time to Visit: May is one of the ideal months to visit Las Vegas, as the weather is warm but not scorching hot, making outdoor activities and sightseeing much more enjoyable. Whether you’re indulging in world-class entertainment or exploring nearby natural wonders, Las Vegas offers unforgettable experiences in this vibrant spring month.

Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Canyonlands National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is a stunning expanse of rugged desert landscapes, offering some of the most breathtaking views and unique geological features in the United States. This 337,598-acre park is divided into four distinct districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the riverside area. Each district offers different landscapes, outdoor activities, and attractions, making it a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

It’s no secret that we think Utah is one of the most beautiful states in the US, so why not make it your chosen May destination?

Awe-inspiring landscapes make Canyonlands National Park one of the best places to bask in the state’s beauty. May is a popular time to visit, because of the relatively mild temperatures (around 80 degrees during the day) which shoot up in the summer months, making it less than ideal for hiking. This month, though, you’ll be able to enjoy warm and sunny days without being overwhelmed by the heat.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Havasu Falls, nestled in the heart of the Grand Canyon, is one of the best places to visit in May for its breathtaking turquoise waters and stunning rock formations. Located on the Havasupai Tribe’s land in remote Havasu Canyon, this natural wonder offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity. May is an ideal time to visit due to mild weather, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F, making the challenging 10-mile hike from Hualapai Hilltop more comfortable. The trail, which descends 2,000 feet, winds through dramatic desert landscapes before revealing the vibrant falls, a rewarding sight for hikers.

White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Sands National Park in southern New Mexico is a must-visit in May, offering a surreal landscape of rolling white gypsum dunes across 275 square miles. Perfect for adventurers and photographers, the park features hiking, sledding, and stargazing under clear spring skies. With mild May weather, explore diverse trails and unique attractions, making it one of the best places to visit in May for an unforgettable nature escape.

Black Canyon at Gunnison National Park, Colorado

Black Canyon at Gunnison National Park, Colorado, is renowned for its dramatic and rugged terrain, sculpted over two million years by the forceful Gunnison River. The canyon’s name comes from its sheer depth and narrowness, where sunlight rarely touches the canyon floor, giving it a shadowy, “black” appearance. The rock walls – composed primarily of Precambrian metamorphic stone—tell the ancient story of geological time, with layers dating back nearly 2 billion years. These dark, towering cliffs and intricate rock formations create an almost mystical, cathedral-like atmosphere that captivates geologists and tourists alike.

Hiking the Inner Canyon – Challenging descent into the canyon offering stunning, close-up views of its rugged terrain.
Rim Rock Trail – Short, accessible trail with sweeping views of the canyon and surrounding landscape.
Star Gazing – Enjoying the clear, dark skies of the park, perfect for observing celestial wonders.
Photography – Capturing the dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations, and expansive views of the canyon.
Wildlife Watching – Spotting diverse wildlife, including mule deer, black bears, and various bird species.

Best Attractions at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado:

South Rim Drive – Scenic drive offering spectacular vistas and numerous overlooks.
Painted Wall – Colorado’s highest cliff, known for its vibrant, multi-colored rock patterns.
Gunnison River Overlook – Viewpoint where you can marvel at the winding Gunnison River below.
Visitor Center – The park’s hub for exhibits, maps, and educational information about the park’s history and geology.
Devil’s Lookout – An impressive overlook providing an awe-inspiring perspective of the canyon’s depth and steep rock faces.

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas, is one of the best places to visit in May, blending rich history and vibrant culture. Stroll the iconic River Walk, lined with shops and restaurants, or visit the historic Alamo, a symbol of Texas bravery. Explore UNESCO-listed Spanish missions like San José. With mild May weather, enjoy lively festivals, diverse cuisine, and warm hospitality, making San Antonio a dynamic destination for history buffs and culture lovers.

San Antonio, Texas Attraction

The Alamo – Historic site where the famous battle of 1836 took place, now a museum.
San Antonio River Walk – Scenic network of walkways along the San Antonio River, filled with shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park – UNESCO World Heritage site with preserved Spanish colonial missions.
SeaWorld San Antonio – Large marine life park with thrilling rides, shows, and animal exhibits.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas – Popular amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment.
The San Antonio Museum of Art – Diverse collection of global art, located in a historic building.
Tower Life Building & Observation Deck – Stunning city views from one of San Antonio’s tallest buildings.
Japanese Tea Garden – Peaceful, lush garden perfect for strolling and enjoying nature.
Natural Bridge Caverns – Explore underground caverns and take part in thrilling activities like zip-lining and gem mining.
Market Square (El Mercado) – Vibrant marketplace with shops, restaurants, and festivals celebrating Mexican culture.

May is perfect for exploring the USA’s diverse destinations. From Yellowstone’s vibrant wildlife to Savannah’s blooming charm, these top 10 places offer unforgettable adventures. Enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and stunning landscapes, making your spring getaway truly spectacular. Plan your trip now!

FAQs

What are the best places to visit in May for pleasant weather?

May offers ideal weather in many destinations. Best places to visit in May include Santorini, Greece, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds, and Kyoto, Japan, for cherry blossom remnants and comfortable climates. Machu Picchu, Peru, is also great, with dry season starting and moderate daytime temperatures.

Which are the best places to visit in May for budget travelers?

For budget-conscious travelers, best places to visit in May include Lisbon, Portugal, where affordable accommodations and pleasant spring weather converge, and Bali, Indonesia, with low-season rates before the summer rush. Eastern European cities like Budapest, Hungary, offer cultural richness at lower costs.

What are the best places to visit in May for outdoor activities?

Outdoor enthusiasts will find best places to visit in May like Banff, Canada, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing in crisp spring conditions, or the Amalfi Coast, Italy, ideal for coastal walks and early beach days. New Zealand’s South Island is also excellent for autumnal trekking and adventure sports.

Are there family-friendly best places to visit in May?

Yes, best places to visit in May for families include Orlando, Florida, with theme parks like Disney World and fewer crowds before summer, and Copenhagen, Denmark, offering kid-friendly attractions like Tivoli Gardens in mild weather. Costa Rica’s national parks are great for educational wildlife adventures.

What are the best places to visit in May to avoid crowds?

To escape crowds, best places to visit in May include the Azores, Portugal, for serene island beauty, and Bhutan, where spring brings vibrant festivals with fewer tourists. The Scottish Highlands also offer tranquil landscapes and mild weather in May.