Discover America – 15 of the Best Places to Visit in May in the USA
May is considered an ideal month to travel in the USA. Why are we saying so? In the south, you start feeling summer. May is the last month when you can plan a holiday without the scorching heat of the summer. However, in the north, the snow would be gone, and the garden would start to look green again. The sun shines warmer, and days start getting longer. The best part is you would not find your favourite place crowded. Travelers who are planning their trip in May can also get budget-friendly flights and hotel deals. So where do you want to go? In the article, we mention the 15 best places to travel in May USA. Plan your perfect springtime getaway with our article.
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1. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago comes to the top when it comes to the best places to visit in May, USA. You would not need to wait in a long queue to explore your favorite places in the city. The city literally becomes lively in the spring after the long winter season. Most of the restaurants in Chicago open their outdoor dining spaces in May. What is something extra you will experience in May? Well, in May, there are at least 20 street festivals celebrated. I don’t think anything more travelers can expect from Chicago.
2. Yosemite National Park, California
It is one of the most visited national parks in the USA. Now, you can imagine how crowded the Park would be in the peak season. May is the shoulder season, and the Park would be less crowded. Now, it might make sense to you why we placed Yosemite National Park on the list of best places to visit in May in the USA. In the Park, you can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and driving. During your travel, you also can get an opportunity to see breathtaking valleys, waterfalls, and spring wildflower blooms.
3. Portland, Maine
Portland attracts tourists with its coastal beauty and vibrant culture. As spring arrives in May, the city bursts with vigorous energy. You can explore the historic Old Port district with charming boutiques, galleries, and fresh seafood. Outdoor enthusiasts get an opportunity to go kayaking along Casco Bay. May also marks the beginning of festival season in Portland, with events celebrating everything from art and music to local cuisine.
Must Visit Destinations – Oregon Zoo, Portland Art Museum, The Grotto and Pioneer Courthouse Square
4. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
The Park becomes super cool in May. It becomes a playground filled with lakes, forests, and amazing wildlife. You can go on a boat trip and explore the sparkling waters, or try fishing for some big fish! Voyageurs also offer various spots for hiking. The weather is also ideal for hiking and spotting colorful flowers. So grab your backpack and get ready for an awesome adventure in Voyageurs National Park this May!
5. Texas Hill Country
The place is full of natural landmarks, rich & historical places, and historical destinations. From March till May, the temperature starts getting warmer, and the weather becomes perfect for exploring. You can even plan a trip with your family to the Texas Hill Country, where you can enjoy watching beautiful rivers, lakes, terrain, and unique wildlife. This, one of the best vacation spots in the US, also offers opportunities for hiking, biking, floating, or soaking to outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Annapolis, Maryland
If you want to explore the rich history and coastal charm of Annapolis by escaping the scorching heat, plan your trip in May. The average temperature in May would be around 24 degrees. You would find the city full of blossoms, and the sailing season also came back in May. I recommend below 2 must-do things that you can’t miss in Annapolis.
- Don’t miss to take a trolley tour around the city
- Taste crafted beer with delicious local food
7. Monterey, California
Monterey is another irresistible destination in May you want to explore. It is a beautiful coastal city whose charm comes back after temperatures rise, offering perfect conditions for exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium or walking along Cannery Row. May brings blooming wildflowers near the hillsides of Big Sur. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking in Monterey Bay. May in Monterey promises a preferred getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Best Things to do – Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, State Historic Park, Monetary Art Museum
8. Block Island, Rhode Island
May or early September is the best time to visit Block Island. I recommend this place, especially to those who are looking for the perfect vacation in May with family. Block Island offers breathtaking beaches like Crescent Beach. The temperature on the Island would be around 16 degrees centigrade, so plan accordingly. Now check must do things below on Block Island
- Rent a bike to discover the real beauty of the Island, including the Great Salt Pond
- Go for a hike to the Mohegan bluffs to get the breathtaking view of the ocean and Island
9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Travelers can explore famous landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where America’s history comes alive in Philadelphia. Take a walk down colorful streets lined with delicious cheesesteak spots and restaurants. In the end, don’t forget to visit the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art. If you love nature, Fairmount Park is perfect for you for picnics and outdoor fun. So join the fun in Philadelphia, one of the best places to visit in May in the USA.
10. Petrified National Park, Arizona
Petrified National Park, one of the most attractive places to visit in May, offers a beautiful landscape filled with ancient petrified wood and colorful badlands. Do you know this unique Park preserves fossils dating back over 200 million years? It offers visitors a glimpse into prehistoric times. Check below the attractions that you can’t miss during your visit to the Park.
Must Visit Places – Crystal Forest Trail, Painted Desert Rim Trail, Rainbow Forest Museum, Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument
11. Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai becomes best in May with its lush greenery, blooming flowers, and beautiful weather, making it the perfect time to explore its natural beauty. With fewer crowds and lower rainfall, Kauai becomes perfect for hiking the Na Pali Coast. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Kauai offers an unforgettable getaway, which makes it one of the best places to visit in May.
12. Wolfeboro, New Hampshire
Looking for a perfect weekend getaway in the month of May in New Hampshire? Go to Wolfeboro with your loved ones and explore the Wright Museum of WWII, the Cotton Valley Rail Trail, Allen Albee Beach, and the Boat Museum. Also, check the must-do things that you can’t miss in Wolfeboro.
- Visit the Farmer’s market in the morning and explore hand-crafted items
- Go to the Merrymeeting Lake for the breathtaking sunset
13. Sacramento, California
The city offers many awesome things to do in spring. The rainy and winter season would be gone, and the weather would become ideal in Sacramento for traveling. Check the things below that you must do during your visit to the city.
- Reserve a day to spend on the Raging Water, which is a fun water park
- If you are an art lover, explore the Crocker Art Museum
- Paddling in the American River
- Take a tour of the State Capitol Museum
14. Roanoke, Virginia
As spring blooms in May, the Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Roanoke become alive with color, creating picturesque landscapes for hiking, biking, and exploring. With its charming downtown, scenic trails, and bustling cultural scene, Roanoke, one of the best places in the US to visit in May, offers a delightful retreat for adventurers.
15. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is last place in our list of the “15 of the Best Places to Visit in May in the USA.” It is one of the parks from Utah’s ‘Big Five” national parks. Keep this place on high priority if you are looking for relaxing holidays with your family. The best part is you would find Zion National Park less crowded in May. It means you can explore your favorite spots in the Park peacefully.
Also Read : A Guide to the Best Places to Visit in April USA
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :
Q. Which state is best to visit in May?
A. We mentioned 15 different places to visit in May in the USA in the article. Choose any place that best suits your interests.
Q. Where is hot in the USA in May?
A. Arizona can be considered the warmest state in the USA in May.
Q. Is May a good time to visit the US?
A. Yes, May is considered one of the best times to visit the US due to pleasant weather.