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On the hunt for the best places to visit in May in the USA? The United States is home to a plethora of travel destinations where you can enjoy the last month of spring and welcome in the summer months. Enjoy the great outdoors and marvel at the scenic beauty of the most beautiful states in the US! Follow the trails of the best national and state parks in the country—check out our top 10 National and State parks to see for inspiration. Lounge by the shores of world-class beach destinations. Meanwhile, city lovers will revel in the bustling metropolitan atmosphere of U.S. cities.
Indeed, whatever fun and adventure you’re looking for, you can find them all in the country! Here are the 27 best places to visit in the US in May!
Family-Friendly Places to Visit in May in the USA
1. Disney World, Florida
[caption id="attachment_132001" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by danuv on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 69.4°F (20.78°C) and high of 86.2°F (30.11°C); precipitation of 3.23" (82mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Moderate crowds and EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.
Looking for the best family vacation spots in May? You certainly can’t go wrong with the most magical place on Earth! Walt Disney World in Florida boasts an extensive list of rides, attractions, shows, and events that will surely entertain the whole family. Visiting in May means you’re just in the middle of springtime festivities, including the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. Stroll through family-friendly exhibits and gardens with breathtaking topiary sculptures of your favorite Disney characters.
2. San Diego, California
[caption id="attachment_131997" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Nathan Rupert on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 56.3°F (13.5°C) and high of 67.6°F (19.8°C); precipitation of 0.39" (10mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Vibrant Cinco de Mayo and Mother’s Day celebrations, and cool weather.
Besides being one of the best places to visit in December in the USA, San Diego is also an excellent destination during May. America’s Finest City is a hotspot for family-friendly attractions and is likewise among the top destinations on the West Coast to celebrate Mother’s Day! Help moms unwind by booking her a relaxing day at the spa. Spoil her to a Mother’s Day brunch at the city’s finest restaurants with wondrous views. It’s around this time as well, where you’ll find the 50 acres worth of flower fields at the Carlsbad Ranch in full bloom.
Moreover, San Diego is one of the best places to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Experience traditional Mexican culture at the historic Old Town San Diego neighborhood. Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine while you enjoy live entertainment, including Latino bands and wrestling matches that will surely enthrall the entire family!
3. Los Angeles, California
[caption id="attachment_131989" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Matthew LeJune on Unsplash[/caption]
Reasons to Visit in May: Whale watching season, fewer crowds, and cooler temperatures.
Another West Coast destination to visit in May is the City of Angels. While Los Angeles is a year-round destination, you’ll avoid the summer crowds this month. Moderate temperatures around the 60s mean you can still enjoy outdoor activities, such as heading to the beach, hitting up the pier in Santa Monica, and visiting LA theme parks. It’s around this time you’ll find different species of whales migrating through LA waters. As such, you can easily add whale watching to your itinerary of fun things to do in Los Angeles in May!
4. Big Sky, Montana
[caption id="attachment_132063" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Curtis on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 30.6°F (-0.78°C) and high of 52°F(11.11°C); precipitation of 2.91" (74mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Wildflowers in full bloom, wildlife roaming freely, and backcountry skiing.
Big Sky is among the fun places to travel in the US for families who greatly love cross-country skiing or snowboarding. Typically a winter vacation destination, it’s likewise one of the best places to visit in May in the USA. The last month of spring falls within the “mud season” or the off-season between winter and summer. This is the time when you’ll find wildflowers in full bloom and wildlife roaming freely. Moreover, you can find some of the best mountain bike trails in the U.S. in the area, ranging from scenic routes to rigorous terrains. Despite the majority of the snow melting away, backcountry skiing remains a popular activity in May.
5. Salt Lake City
[caption id="attachment_131995" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Sergey Novikov on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 43.7°F (6.5°C) and high of 64.2°F (17.9°C); precipitation of 0.31" (8mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Bird watching opportunities and the Living Traditions Festival.
The list of fun things to do in Salt Lake City doesn’t just include hitting the slopes of the city’s world-class ski resorts. Nature dwellers can visit hiking trails and take part in lake activities at the Great Salt Lake without worrying about the hordes of other tourists. May means spring migration is in full swing, so you can expect plenty of birding opportunities.
Pleasant temperatures around the 50s make visiting the city’s iconic and historic landmarks, such as the Salt Lake Temple, more enjoyable. Furthermore, the Living Traditions Festival held in May is a three-day event that celebrates the numerous communities that call Salt Lake City home.
6. Yosemite National Park
[caption id="attachment_132004" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by 12019 on Pixabay[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 41.5°F (5.3°C) and high of 72.9°F (22.7°C);
precipitation of 1.47" (37.3mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Wildlife-spotting, several snow-free tails, and full flow rate of waterfalls and rivers.
Generally, many consider Spring the best time to visit Yosemite National Park in California. However, you may still find some roads and hiking trails closed due to snow during early spring. It isn’t until late May when the snow starts to melt, though some trails may still be wet. Cyclists can enjoy biking through the scenic trail in the Yosemite Valley, which is already snow-free by this time.
Additionally, countless waterfalls and rivers of Yosemite come back to life at this time of the year. You shouldn’t miss visiting the Yosemite Falls – the tallest waterfall in the park. River fishing season is also at its peak around this month, with different trout species swimming in the waters.
7. Shenandoah National Park
[caption id="attachment_132066" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Vladimir Grablev on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 46°F (7.78°C) and high of 64°F(17.78°C); 3.5” (88.9mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Ranger programs and Rapidan Camp tours; birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Located in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is among the best vacation spots in the US for those seeking outdoor adventure. Stretching nearly 200,000 acres, it boasts soaring cliffs, pastoral fields, and cascading waterfalls. However, the 105-mile long scenic drive along Skyline Drive is undeniably one of the park’s most popular features. If you want to go on foot, there are over 500 miles of hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy. Ranger programs and Rapidan Camp tours begin again in May.
Families with older teens can try their hands at conquering the Old Rag Mountains, which tower over 3,000 feet. Meanwhile, birdwatching enthusiasts who visit during springtime can catch an array of bird species. You can spot other forms of wildlife around May, including deer, bobcats, butterflies, and squirrels. Also, make sure to watch out for snakes and black bears.
8. Chicago
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Photo by Richard Schneider on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 50.4°F (10.2°C) and high of 61°F (16.1°C); precipitation of 4.61" (117mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Chicago Riverwalk season-opening, street fairs, and music festivals.
One of the best cities to visit in the USA, Chicago truly comes alive in May with street fairs and festivities. The Chicago Riverwalk bustles with activity yet manageable crowds; couples can wine and dine at nearby restaurants serving deep-dish pizza. Families with kids will enjoy Navy Pier’s rides and attractions. Music lovers also find Chicago among the good vacation spots, with several festivals citywide. For those seeking a broader outdoor escape, nearby Shenandoah National Park—located in Virginia, not West Virginia—is among the best vacation spots in the US for hiking and scenery, though it’s a separate trip from the Windy City’s urban spring charm.
9. San Francisco, California
[caption id="attachment_131998" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Sur. on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 50.5°F (10.3°C) and high of 65.7°F (18.7°C); precipitation of 0.35" (9mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Several sporting events, lively Cinco de Mayo celebration, and other street festivals.
With iconic structures such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the Painted Ladies, and a vibrant hipster culture, San Francisco is a famous tourist destination all year-round. San Francisco in May, however, is a mecca for avid sports enthusiasts. The Golden Gate City is brimming with numerous sporting events that you surely wouldn’t want to miss. From baseball season in full swing to basketball and hockey playoffs, SF is the place to be if you want to witness all the best action live!
Furthermore, art and culture fall under the limelight in May, with several festivals and street fairs highlighting the diverse culture and ideas that call this West Coast city home. Notably, you wouldn’t want to miss Cinco de Mayo. The city’s Mexican and Latino community takes to the streets of Valencia Street and showcases their culture and heritage through food, music, and dance performances.
Scenic Places To Visit In May in the USA
10. Grand Canyon
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Photo by John Fowler on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 60°F (15.56 °C) and high of 90°F (32.22 °C); precipitation of 0.33" (8.4mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Mule riding at the North Rim, low chances of rain, and pleasant daytime temperature.
With its deep gorges, stunning rock formations, and steep cliffs, Grand Canyon has been a popular day-trip destination for generations. The canyon spans over 200 miles and is split into three sections — the North Rim, South Rim, and the West Rim.
The North Rim is the most rugged side of the canyon, with only a few facilities, while the South Rim is more developed and sees more crowds. The West Rim is where you’ll find unique attractions such as the glass walkway that soars over 4,000 feet above sea level.
While you’ll never run out of hiking opportunities here, riding a mule is one of the popular ways to explore the canyon’s wonders. Mule trips in the South Rim are offered all year-round, but it isn’t until mid-May that you can explore the trails of the North Rim on mule-back. Furthermore, traveling to the canyon in May means fewer chances of rain with pleasant daytime temperatures in the mid-70s to 80s.
11. Joshua Tree National Park
[caption id="attachment_131987" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Beau Rogers on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 63°F (17.22°C) and high of 89°F (31.67 °C); precipitation of 0.04” (1.16mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Wild desert flowers in bloom and moderate to cool temperatures.
Situated in the desert plateaus of Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park boasts one of the most extraordinary landscapes in America. Visitors can explore nearly 800,000 acres of land that features astonishing rock formations and unique Yucca trees. Visiting the park in May means moderate temperatures of around 70s, with the desert flowers in full bloom. At nighttime, temperatures can drop quickly. Make sure to bring with you extra layers if you plan on camping. Early to mid-May may be part of peak season, but visiting during the latter part of the month can help you avert crowds.
12. Yellowstone National Park
[caption id="attachment_132003" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Evan on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 28°F (-2.2°C) and high of 52°F (11.1°C); precipitation of 2.47" (62.7mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Shoulder season with smaller crowds.
With steep canyons, incredible summits, majestic waterfalls, and pristine lakes, Yellowstone National Park is among the most beautiful places in the US, its hot springs and geysers ranking as bewitching natural wonders. May is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park. Early May remains shoulder season, though visitor numbers rise later in the month. Weather stays unpredictable, with surprise snowfall or rainstorms even in late spring—so layer up and bring rain gear. For broader planning, check our month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy if you’re comparing spring trips, but for Yellowstone, pack for all conditions.
13. Glacier National Park, Montana
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Photo by ricktravel on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 35.2°F (1.8°C) and high of 59.5°F (15.3°C); precipitation of 1.1" (28mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities and snow-covered trails.
Nestled in northwestern Montana, Glacier National Park is a nature enthusiast’s paradise. Visiting in May means you’ll still find blankets of snow covering the area. With that in mind, not all trails and roads are open to visitors — this includes the popular Going-to-the-Sun Road. Don’t fret, though, since there is still an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy.
The park boasts over 700 miles of hiking trails. Start the outdoor adventure by taking a short hike leading to some of the most beautiful lakes in the country – including Grinnell Lake with turquoise waters. Alternatively, you can head to one of the park’s wide-open meadows. Expect a good deal of wildlife encounters during your visit — deer, mountain goats, marmots, and bears are common sights in the area. The cool Glacier National Park weather in May is great for camping, as well. You can choose from 13 campgrounds to sleep under the stars.
14. Blue Ridge Parkway
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Photo by Dave Allen on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 45°F (7.2°C) and high of 64°F (17.8°C); precipitation of 6.05" (153.6mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Wildlife-spotting such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and black bears.
Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile route within the hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Besides being a scenic drive connecting Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s also a great road-trip destination on its own. You’ll encounter an abundance of natural wonders as you drive across this winding road between Virginia and North Carolina.
Go on foot and explore historic hydrological and geological features, such as the oldest river in North America surrounded by the oldest mountains in the world. The highest waterfall within the Rocky Mountains can also be found along the parkway. Meanwhile, daredevils out there can challenge themselves to conquer the dramatic summits of the highest peak of the Appalachian Mountains.
In addition, visiting around May means you have a higher chance of encountering wildlife that calls the area home. This includes the likes of white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears. Be sure to bring extra layers of jackets and sweaters since the temperature and weather in the area can change rapidly.
15. Grand Teton National Park
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Photo by Mr. Nixter on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 34°F (1.11°C) and high of 60°F(15.56 °C); precipitation of 1.8” (45.72mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Trails, roads, campgrounds, and other facilities are open. Park ranger programs are available.
Grand Teton National Park is among the best places to visit in May in the USA for tranquility amid the wilderness. It features granite mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and lush meadows with abundant wildlife. This Wyoming park draws visitors in May when most trails and facilities open.
Outdoor activities include backpacking and mountaineering. Fishing and boating seasons begin in early May, though waters stay cold and muddy with fast currents. Most campgrounds are open by then. For relaxation, choose from scenic drives offering panoramic views of the Teton Range, mostly accessible by May. Ranger-guided programs also resume around this time.
16. Acadia National Park
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Photo by Zack Frank on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 30°F (-1.11°C) and high of 70°F (21°C); precipitation of 3.4” (86.36mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Birding and whale-watching season. Less foggy than other spring months.
Acadia National Park is a must-see place in the USA in May. Dubbed the Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast, it blends coastal and inland landscapes with cobble beaches, wetlands, meadows, mountains, granite domes, and forests. Hiking trails, rustic carriage roads, and historic motor roads weave through this terrain.
In May, the area teems with bird species. Songbirds appear in meadows and forests, while migratory seabirds gather along coasts and shorelines. Head to Bar Harbor for chances to see whales and seals in surrounding waters.
The Maine coastal climate shapes park weather. Expect ice storms in early May and frequent rain showers throughout the month. Unlike other spring months, fog rarely blurs the view during your visit.
17. Arches National Park
[caption id="attachment_131980" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Bill Devlin on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 51.1°F (10.6°C) and high of 82°F (27.8°C); precipitation of 8.74" (222mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Comfortable weather, desert flowers in bloom, and camping grounds are open.
A trip to the Beehive State isn’t complete without exploring one of Utah’s national parks. The state is home to five national parks, and each one boasts some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes. If you’re not sure which one to visit, consider spending a day at Arches National Park. Home to ancient sandstone formations and desert flowers, the park is one of the most interesting places to visit in the country. You can easily marvel at these towering geological wonders from your car during a scenic drive. However, to better appreciate their beauty, follow one of the park’s hiking trails.
Admittedly, May is right in the middle of the park’s peak season, but you can avoid large crowds when you arrive during early mornings or late afternoons. Early mornings not only mean shorter lines and easier parking but cooler temperatures as well. On the other hand, late afternoons are the perfect time to catch the so-called “golden hour.” The softer rays of the sun with marvelous red rock formations as the backdrop create picturesque scenery. As such, don’t forget to bring your camera and selfie stick! If you want a more intimate connection with nature, reserve a camping spot at the Devils Garden Campground and take in the spellbinding beauty of the starry night sky.
Best Places to Visit for Memorial Day Weekend
18. Washington D.C.
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Photo by Mathieu Marquer on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 62°F (16.67 °C) and high of 79°F (26.11°C); precipitation of 3.4” (86.36mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Large Memorial Day parade and celebration.
There’s no place more patriotic than the nation’s capital. If you’re looking for Memorial Day weekend destinations, Washington D.C. is certainly among the best. Witness the largest Memorial Day parade in the country, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators each year. Afterward, pay respects to the fallen men and women who sacrificed for the country by visiting the numerous memorials and monuments at National Mall or Arlington National Cemetery.
Memorial Day weekend is likewise a great time to welcome summer, but without the season’s warm and muggy weather. Head over to Georgetown where you can rent a kayak and take in the sights along the Potomac River. The National Air and Space Museum along Jefferson Drive is another popular destination. People of all ages can learn about aviation and space exploration. The best part? Admission is always free!
19. Charleston, South Carolina
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Photo by Maciek Lulko on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 68.2°F (20.1°C) and high of 79.5°F (26.4°C); precipitation of 2.87" (73mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Warm and sunny weather and fewer crowds at the beaches.
May is one of the best times to visit Charleston, just as long as you can handle the heat. With it being so close to summer, the South Carolina weather around this time is typically warm and sunny. This is especially true during Memorial Day weekend. Marking the start of beach season in the city, you’ll find plenty of locals and tourists heading to nearby beaches in late May. You can easily soak up the warm sun while still avoiding the extreme heat and humidity that the summer months bring. Want to immerse yourself in the city’s southern charm? Head over to the Charleston Tea Plantation! Enjoy a lovely afternoon picnic in the green fields or hop aboard a trolley to take in the amazing scenery of the plantation.
20. San Antonio, Texas
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Photo by Ken Lund on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 67.3°F (19.6°C) and high of 85.6°F (29.8°C); precipitation of 3.66" (93mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Comfortable weather and lower accommodation rates.
The Lone Star State is undoubtedly one of the best states to visit if you seek cheap places to travel to in the US. After all, this is where you can find several free and cheap tourist attractions, such as the Old Tunnel State Park and Houston Arboretum. Spend Memorial Day weekend over in San Antonio, where you’ll find many attractions and plenty of outdoor barbecues. Situated at the end of Texas Hill Country, the city is where you’ll find historical sites such as the Alamo, Mission San Jose, and the River Walk. All of which are free to tour!
The city typically receives lots of sunshine in late May but is still generally cooler than the hotter summer temperature. As such, it’s the ideal time to explore the outdoors and visit family-friendly spots.
21. New York City, New York
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Photo by Charley Lhasa on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 54.1°F (12.3°C) and high of 68°F (20°C); 3.39" (86mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Pleasant weather with flora and foliage in full bloom.
New York City is home to iconic and historic attractions from Broadway and the George Washington Bridge to the American Museum of Natural History and the Statue of Liberty. Arguably, the Big Apple is one of the best cities to visit in the USA. The colorful flora and foliage of May only amplify the allure of the city. Visiting New York City in early May is the perfect time to admire cherry blossoms and botanic gardens. What’s more, with the average temperatures hovering in the 60s, you can leisurely stroll through Central Park without getting overly warm.
If you’re headed to the city during Memorial Day weekend, make sure to visit the birthplace of the holiday — Waterloo. Nestled in New York’s Finger Lakes area, there are plenty of locations in Waterloo wherein visitors can pay tribute to the sacrifices of fallen soldiers. This includes the National Memorial Day Museum and the American Civil War Memorial.
22. Las Vegas, Nevada
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Photo by Thomas Hawk on Flickr[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 61.7°F (16.5°C) and high of 80.6°F (27°C); precipitation of 0.24" (6mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Slightly cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Looking for cool places to visit for your Memorial Day Weekend? You can’t get any cooler than Sin City itself. With its casinos and vivid nightlife with live music and entertainment, Las Vegas ranks among the top party destinations in the country. Party at one of the city’s pool clubs, indulge in a variety of mouthwatering cuisine, and don’t forget the live concerts and shows.
You can always rely on the Las Vegas public transportation to get around the city. For a different vantage point, a chopper ride is the way to go. Aboard a helicopter, marvel at the Las Vegas Strip illuminated by its blinding lights. You can also catch a glimpse of the nearby desert landscape that contrasts the glitz and glamor of the city. Furthermore, nearby national parks such as Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are great day trip destinations to add to your itinerary while in Vegas—both are excellent additions to any top 10 National and State parks to see list.
23. New Orleans
[caption id="attachment_131992" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by trongnguyen on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 71.2°F (21.8°C) and high of 82.9°F (28.3°C); 0.75" (19mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Discounted deals at museums and other attractions. End of crawfish season.
Mardi Gras isn’t the only celebration to look out for in New Orleans. The Big Easy is likewise a great destination to spend Memorial Day weekend. Start by honoring the country’s fallen soldiers by visiting the National WWII Museum, which offers free admissions to veterans of World War II. Meanwhile, active or retired military personnel and their spouses receive discounted admissions. Afterward, enjoy a picnic with friends and family at one of the city’s parks and green spaces.
Head over to the French Quarter if you’re looking for a more festive scene. One of New Orleans’ most historic neighborhoods, the streets are lined with stunning architecture, restaurants, modern boutiques, and antique stores. The neighborhood boasts a lively nightlife scene, as well. Visiting New Orleans in May means you can still indulge in boiled crawfish before peak season ends. Furthermore, since several hotels typically offer discounted deals to welcome summer, the city is a cheap place to travel to in the US around this time.
24. Palm Springs
[caption id="attachment_131994" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Cesar Cid on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 55.9°F (13.3°C) and 78.4°F (25.8°C); precipitation of 0.12" (3mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: The Annual Memorial Day Flower Drop.
Palm Springs is one of the must-visit destinations during Memorial Day Weekend. A long weekend in this East Coast oasis means plenty of parties, drinks, live music, and entertainment. The weather in Palm Springs in late May grows warmer, and as the temperatures rise, locals hit the poolside to cool off. But lounging by the pool with a cocktail in hand isn’t the only activity you can take part in. Head over to the Palm Springs Air Museum and attend the Annual Memorial Day Flower Drop. Witness as thousands of red and white carnations fall from the sky via a helicopter to commemorate the country’s fallen soldiers.
25. Miami Beach
[caption id="attachment_131991" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by jovannig on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 77°F (25°C) and high of 82°F (27.8°C); precipitation of 1.77" (45mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates.
Miami Beach is among the most popular summer and spring break destinations in the country thanks to its buzzing nightlife. Unfortunately, it can get crowded, especially around these times. Visiting Miami Beach in late May means you can still enjoy its gorgeous beaches and warm weather, without having to elbow your way through a cocktail bar. Plus, you can find several reasonable rates for your accommodations. While you’re in here, make sure you head over to South Beach. A party beach to its core, it’s often dubbed as one of the top places to visit in the US if you’re looking for the best nightclubs and bars! For a deeper dive into the area, check out our guide to South beach, Miami in a weekend.
26. Mackinac Island
[caption id="attachment_131990" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 41.4°F (5.2°C) and high of 55°F (12.8°C); precipitation of 1.69" (43mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: beginning of the tourist season but with still smaller crowds.
Want a more laid-back Memorial Day Weekend celebration? Mackinac Island is the destination for you! Referred to as the jewel of the Great Lakes, the unspoiled beauty of this island is perfect for couples who want to escape city life. You won’t find any cars or chain hotels here. Instead, expect horse-drawn carriages, elegant architecture, unique boutiques, cozy inns, and diverse food offerings. Explore the stunning vistas and historical landmarks of this Northern Michigan island on foot, on a bike, or even on a romantic boat ride.
The island takes a hiatus during winter and comes out of hibernation in spring. Although some shops and attractions may still be closed in early months, by May the island is truly awake, with spring wildflowers fully in bloom and attractions entirely operational. Crowds are generally smaller, so you won’t have trouble finding discounted lodging deals and rates. For broader seasonal planning, check out a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy if you’re weighing transatlantic options.
27. Virginia Beach
[caption id="attachment_132000" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo by Vadim on Adobe Stock[/caption]
Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 62.1°F (16.7°C) and high of 71.2°F (21.8°C); precipitation of 1.18" (30mm).
Reasons to Visit in May: Peak strawberry season and avoid hurricane season.
There’s a lot to love about Virginia Beach. This coastal city along the Mid-Atlantic boasts an extensive list of sights and activities that keep locals and visitors entertained, no matter the season. But it’s around late spring that you can experience the coastal front beach scene in full swing! The best part? You don’t have to deal with the enormous crowds, surge charges, and humid temperatures that summer typically brings. Additionally, you can avoid hurricane season when visiting Virginia Beach in May, which usually happens around June and November.
The beach isn’t the only thing you should look forward to during your stay. The annual Pungo Strawberry Festival also takes place around Memorial Day Weekend. Spoil your taste buds with delicacies made from fresh strawberries sourced from local farms. Live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a parade are just some of the other highlights of the event.
Plan Your Trip to the Best US Vacations Spots in May Today
Regardless if you want to visit fun cities with bustling nightlife or small towns with relaxing atmospheres, you’ll never run out of the best places to visit in May in the USA. Visiting in May ensures you are welcomed by pleasant weather, slimmer crowds, and more affordable vacation packages. There’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy! We hope this list helped you decide where to go on vacation for the month of May.
