Are you looking for the best places to visit in May in the USA? If so, keep reading!
If you’re planning a vacation this spring, and you’re looking for the best places to visit in May in the USA, then we’ve put together a list of all our top suggestions!
Whether you’re into city breaks, rustic getaways or beach-side retreats, our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA will have somewhere on it, you’re bound to love.
So let’s get into our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA!
20 of the best places to visit in May in the USA!
Holland, Michigan
If you love tulips, tulips, and more tulips, then you’ll certainly think that Holland is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA.
This city is in the Midwest, but thanks to its name and general attitude, it’s considered one of the most European parts of the USA. Which makes it a fantastic choice for the best places to visit in May in the USA.
If you choose to visit, head to the beautiful Centennial Park before exploring the downtown area. Then, head to the local cafes and restaurants for a bite to eat.
However, what makes this one of the best places to visit in May in the USA are the wonderful tulip fields!
May is when these flowers truly bloom, and the area makes way for the annual Tulip Time Festival that takes place in early May. It gets busy, but it’s worth checking out while you’re here!
Read more about USA travel: 16 best places to visit in June in the USA
New York City
Next on our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA, it’s NYC. NYC is a pretty amazing destination all year round, but May is a particularly lovely time to visit.
The weather in May in NYC is bang-on perfect. Warm but not too humid, lovely weather for walking around, dining outdoors, etc. If you want to enjoy a mix of outdoor and indoor attractions, May is the ideal time to visit NYC!
It’s such a great time to enjoy this amazing city. So we definitely recommend it for the best places to visit in May in the USA.
Read more about visiting NYC:
- What to see in NYC (over 100 ideas!)
- 30 things to do in NYC for couples
- 12 Epic food challenges in NYC
- 25 awesome restaurants in Times Square, NYC
Zion National Park
Next on our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA, it’s Zion National Park. Located in Utah, Zion National Park is one of North America’s top beauty spots.
Not only does it offer a Nature Center and History Museum, but there are several local trails around that will guide you through the most popular areas of the park. Scenic adventure? Check.
Although its natural beauty makes it one of the best places to visit in May in the USA, it’s also the wildlife spotting opportunities that keep visitors coming back.
The area is incredibly diverse and offers interesting biodiversity that you’re unlikely to find elsewhere in the USA. If you’re heading to Zion National Park for a flying visit, don’t leave without visiting Zion’s Main Canyon.
Boasting breathtaking views of the rocky bluffs and a beautiful shallow stream, it’s a place that you won’t soon forget! This is a great choice for the best places to visit in May in the USA if you love the outdoors.
Roanoke, Virginia
Next on our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA, it’s Roanoke.
If you’re looking for a city that perfectly balances modernity and old-fashioned charm, then you’ll love the next spot on our list of the top 15 best places to visit in May in the USA.
Roanoke is in Southwest Virginia, and it offers everything from incredible architecture to popular landmarks. We think you’ll adore this choice for the best places to visit in May in the USA.
Whether you want to explore the city’s artistic side at the Taubman Museum of Art or get the kiddos involved at the Science Museum of Western Virginia, there’s plenty to do in this all-American town to satisfy the whole family.
Realistically, with its mild temperatures and long sunny days, it’s unsurprising that we consider this one of the best places to visit in May in the USA!
Savannah, Georgia
Next up on our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA, it’s Savannah…. Adored by both tourists and locals for its unique architecture, subtropical temperature, and lively streets, it certainly deserves a spot on our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA.
Visiting Savannah during the shoulder seasons yields several benefits; not only will you get pleasant temperatures in the 70s and 80s, but you’ll also be able to explore the seafront and local hotspots with the sun beating down – lovely!
Oh, and one more reason that Savannah is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA? The streets are often lined with beautiful springtime flowers, so keep an eye out!
Las Vegas, Nevada
Another worthy spot on our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA, it’s Vegas. There’s never a bad time to visit Vegas. However, it’s one of the best places to visit in May in the USA thanks to its incredible entertainment, milder weather in spring (summer is HOT), and natural wonders.
You should certainly aim to tick off the Grand Canyon on your visit. The surrounding areas are great for hiking, and May is when the wildflowers begin to pop out and say hello!
When you’ve had your fill of the Canyon area, then head back to Sin City for a few days of drunken revelry. Hey, what happens in Vegas, right?! Another reason this place makes our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA.
Whether you want to spend the night hitting famous restaurants on the Strip or visiting some of the area’s many casinos, Las Vegas is sure to bring out your dark side and is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA.
Read more about visiting Las Vegas:
- 11 Las Vegas restaurants with a view of the Bellagio Fountains
- A guide on what to wear in Las Vegas
- 12 best hotels in Las Vegas, with options for every budget
- 49 things to do in Las Vegas for couples
Nashville
Next up on our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA, it’s Nashvile. They say that everything’s bigger in Texas, and that phrase certainly rings true when it comes to Nashville!
This vibrant Texan city is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA thanks to its incredible history, recreational areas, and awesome distilleries.
Seriously, you can get some amazing brews here! If you’ve ever wanted to visit a replication of the Pantheon, then take advantage of Nashville’s full-scale version. It’s weird but totally wonderful.
Another reason that we think this is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA is its musical history.
Having once housed stars like Jimi Hendricks and Etta James, this place has a vibrant past that’s reflected in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Music and various other landmarks that shouldn’t be missed.
Read more about visiting Nashville: 7 of the best day trip from Nashville
San Antonio, Texas
Although most people choose to visit Austin or Nashville, San Antonio is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA.
Why, you ask? Well, it’s just packed with character! It may not be the largest city in Texas, but this compact spot makes up for its small size with awesome restaurants, river walks, and museums.
We recommend hitting the famous River Walk first, as it gives you an excellent introduction to the area. Then, hop in a boat and head down the San Antonio River before hitting the Briscoe Western Art Museum.
There’s so much to do here, but you can’t leave without checking out La Villita Historic Arts Village. Packed with incredible bars, restaurants, and boutiques, we could spend all day here.San Antonio is a great addition to our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA.
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is our next suggestion for the best places to visit in May in the USA.
This gorgeous national park is a lesser-known spot, but we think it’s one of the best places to visit in May in the USA for a quiet country getaway.
Springtime temperatures are perfect for hiking and biking, and you’ll be able to access the campgrounds that are usually closed for the winter season.
Keep an eye out for bobcats, black bears, and coyotes while you’re here (we always recommend keeping your camera at the ready!).
Although it’s probably not well-suited to city slickers, Shenandoah National Park is still one of the best places to visit in May in the USA for some well-earned rest.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is our next idea for the best places to visit in May in the USA.
It is eternally popular and remains one of the best places to visit in May in the USA. With its explosive geysers, impressive valleys, and luscious groves, this is the spot to visit for nature lovers.
Don’t miss the Tioga Pass (which opens in spring most years!) and the various hiking trails around the area. You’ll also be able to spot the local wildlife by foot or from the comfort of your vehicle.
If you’re worried about camping out while it’s cold – don’t be! This is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA as temperatures are always at a reasonable level during spring, making both camping and trail walking pleasant.
Philadelphia
Known for its juicy cheesesteaks and its enduring support for the Eagles, Philadelphia (or Philly, to locals!) is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA for a city break.
Temperatures are slightly cooler here and hover around the mid-50s to low-70s, so you’ll never be too warm to explore.
If you choose to visit Philadelphia in May, you’ll be able to see flowers blooming in Fairmont Park and Spruce Street Harbor Park. Be sure to snap a couple of photos of the stunning cherry blossoms!
Don’t leave without catching an Eagle’s game or trying a cheesesteak. We know we briefly mentioned this already, but we’re completely serious when we say that both things are bona fide attractions here! Another great choice for the best places to visit in May in the USA.
Miami Beach
If it’s a city break you’re after, then our next suggestion for the best places to visit in May in the USA, is Miami Beach. A bustling, lively, fun city – with perfect weather during early May.
If you love beaches, nightlife, shopping, and socializing – then Miami is definitely going to be one of the best places to visit in May in the USA for you.
There’s also a lot of fascinating wildlife nearby too – if you love the great outdoors!
Wolfeboro, New Hampshire
Our next suggestion for the best places to visit in May in the USA, is Wolfeboro. If you’re looking for a harbor getaway, then you can’t do better than the gorgeous town of Wolfeboro.
Tucked away in New Hampshire, this beautiful spot is perfect for boating, shopping, dining, and trail walking.
Although it’s not as “nature-heavy” as some of the other picks on our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA, the Allen Albee Beach and Cotton Valley Rail Trail are stunning.
Make sure you check out the Wright Museum of WWII and Lake Wentworth while you’re here. Oh – and don’t forget to grab some local produce and artisanal goodies at the farmer’s market! This is such a wonderful pick for best places to visit in May in the USA.
Ocean City, Maryland
For a next-level beach vacay, head to Ocean City in Maryland! Now, we think this is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA.
Not only is it perfect for beach activities (think kayaking, sunbathing, and jet skiing), but it’s far less crowded than alternative beachside spots in the country.
California? Step aside – Maryland is about to take your place as the beach capital of the USA! With typical highs of 80 and above, this is our favorite springtime tropical paradise that shouldn’t be missed this year. We think you’ll love this option for the best places to visit in May in the USA.
Sacramento, California
Speaking of California, we couldn’t write a list of the best places to visit in May in the USA without including Sacramento!
With its beautiful Old Town, State Capitol Museum, and incredible riverside restaurants, this is one of the spots in California that immediately feels relaxing.
Oh, and not only is Sacramento more affordable than its Californian neighbors, but the temperatures make dips in the river heavenly. No more cold toes here, folks – only blissful, springtime vibes!
San Diego
Another brilliant choice for the best places to visit in May in the USA, is San Diego. San Diego is one of the most under-rated springtime cities in the USA.
They get wonderful weather here during May, and the culture, food, scenery, and city are all worth visiting and enjoying.
If you’re after a city break, with a little bit of beachside fun – then San Diego might be one of the best places to visit in May in the USA for you!
- Read more about visiting San Diego: Top 20 places for Mexican food in San Diego
- Read more about visiting San Diego: 24 things to do in Old Town, San Diego
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is next up on our suggestion list for the best places to visit in May in the USA. There’s lots to love about Atlanta, but it’s best known for its excellent parks, historic sites, and glorious springtime weather.
Enjoy temperatures around the mid-60s as you explore the Civil War museums. Then, head to the Georgia mountains for a day trip before settling in for a night at the Atlanta Jazz Festival.
We can’t mention all the top attractions, but we highly suggest visiting Piedmont Park and the Georgia Aquarium to keep little tykes happy! Perfect for both short weekend trips and longer vacations, Atlanta is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA that we know of!
Orlando, Florida
Next on our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA, is Orlando. Orlando has great weather all year round – but the storm season tends to start in June, so May is your last chance to enjoy reliable dry and sunshine days.
During the peak summer months, Orlando gets a bit humid (OK, a lot humid!) and might not be to everyone’s taste. So if you’re wanting to squeeze in a visit before the humidity gets unbearable, May is your chance.
Of course, another reason Orlando makes our list of places to visit in May in the USA, is because there’s SO MUCH to do in Orlando! It’s one of those amazing cities with something for absolutely everyone to enjoy.
It’s a fantastic choice for best places to visit in May in the USA, and endless fun too!
Read more about visiting Orlando:
- 23 delicious breakfast places in Orlando
- 15 beautiful beaches near Orlando
- 15 amazing breweries in Orlando
- Top 11 dog-friendly restaurants in Orlando
Mackinac Island, Michigan
The final spot on our list of the best places to visit in May in the USA? It’s Mackinac Island! This place is always buzzing during the summer months, but you can get the best of the weather without the crowds by visiting in May!
Enjoy the gorgeous cliffs, bridges, and hillsides of the island during the day before retiring to your resort pool for cocktails when the evening rolls around.
Although the views and relaxing resorts are the main draws of the island, we’d say that Fort Mackinac shouldn’t be missed by any history buffs! We think you’ll absolutely love this choice for the best places to visit in May in the USA.
We hope this list of the best places to visit in May in the USA has been helpful!
Where do you think you’ll head first?
