With winter far behind and the promise of summer just around the corner, May emerges as a truly magical month to explore the United States. Spring is in full swing, painting landscapes with vibrant colors, offering pleasant temperatures, and often, fewer crowds than the peak summer season. If you’re dreaming of a memorable getaway, look no further. I’ve curated a list of my favorite destinations across the USA that are simply perfect to discover in May.
1. Annapolis, Maryland: Maritime Charm and Spring Festivals
Colorful houses in Annapolis, Maryland
Downtown Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis waterfront in May, Maryland
Annapolis, Maryland’s charming capital city nestled on the Chesapeake Bay, captivated me with its relaxed atmosphere and rich history. Just a short drive from Washington D.C., this delightful destination boasts beautifully preserved 18th-century architecture, a picturesque waterfront, and a distinct maritime spirit.
My May visit was perfectly timed. The weather was wonderfully mild, avoiding the summer heat, and the city felt less crowded. The start of sailing season added to the ambiance, with scenic boat tours and sailing regattas dotting the bay.
May in Annapolis is also festival season! I was thrilled to experience the city decked out in flowers for May Day celebrations. The vibrant First Sunday Arts Festivals, the Maryland Craft Beer Festival, and the spectacular Blue Angels Air Show over the Severn River were unforgettable highlights.
Exploring historic downtown Annapolis was a joy, with its inviting cafes, unique boutiques, cozy pubs, and restaurants serving fresh, farm-to-table cuisine. A stop at the Anne Arundel County Farmers Market and dining at waterfront eateries with stunning views completed my Annapolis experience.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 1 Dock St, Annapolis, MD 21401
- Average temperature: 18-24°C (64-75°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Annapolis highlights…
2. Block Island, Rhode Island: New England Island Escape
Coastal scenery of Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island coastline, Rhode Island
Block Island, a New England gem off the coast of Rhode Island, is a truly underrated destination. Just 13 miles from the mainland, it offers a tranquil escape from the more bustling coastal towns, and in my opinion, that’s a significant part of its charm.
The island exudes a wonderfully uncommercialized and quaint vibe. Unspoiled natural beauty is everywhere, from breathtaking coastal vistas and pristine sandy beaches to dramatic cliffs, wildflower-filled meadows, and gently rolling hills. Two historic lighthouses add to the island’s picturesque appeal. Accommodation options, ranging from charming boutique guesthouses and historic inns to relaxed seaside resorts and cozy cottage rentals, perfectly complement the island’s natural allure.
Choosing to visit in May, before the summer rush, proved ideal. I enjoyed fantastic deals on accommodation and a more intimate, local atmosphere. Having the beautiful beaches and scenic hiking trails practically to myself was a true delight. While the temperatures were pleasant, a touch of coolness lingered, so packing layers for cooler days is advisable.
My stay at the Block Island Beach House, a uniquely chic hotel, was perfect. Exploring the long stretches of Crescent Beach, the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs, and the peaceful Clayhead Nature Trail with its serene coastal views were among my favorite experiences.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 4 Center Rd, New Shoreham, RI 02807
- Average temperature: 10-18°C (50-64°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Block Island highlights…
- Exploring the unique shops in New Shoreham, the island’s only town, from art galleries to clothing boutiques. The handcrafted jewelry at The Glass Onion boutique and the art at Jessie Edwards Studio were standouts.
- Renting an e-bike from BI Electric Bike Rentals and cycling around the island, capturing photos of lighthouses, the Great Salt Pond, and panoramic coastal views along Ocean Avenue and Corn Neck Road.
- Birdwatching in the tranquil Fresh Swamp Preserve, a haven for migratory birds.
3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: History and Hip Vibes in Bloom
Springtime in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Musicians in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during Spring
Philadelphia cityscape – a top destination in May
Despite being a major city, Philadelphia, located in southeastern Pennsylvania, retains a surprisingly charming, small-town feel. I was impressed by the blend of modern skyscrapers, historic colonial architecture, inviting green spaces, and scenic waterfront views.
Visiting in May meant experiencing Philadelphia in its springtime glory. The weather was comfortably warm, not yet hot, and the city felt relaxed and local, with fewer tourist crowds. Spruce Street Harbor Park and the city’s beer gardens were open, creating a lively atmosphere as Philly emerged from winter.
May in Philadelphia is packed with events, from food festivals and blooming tulip displays to sporting events and lively park gatherings. The Philadelphia Beer Week, the vibrant Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival, and the fun South Street Spring Festival were my personal favorites.
Exploring historic landmarks like Franklin Square, the Liberty Bell, and Independence Hall was essential. Venturing into hip neighborhoods like Fishtown and Rittenhouse Square revealed trendy shops, diverse eateries, and lively bars.
- Visitor Centre Address: 599 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
- Average temperature: 18-24°C (64-75°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Philadelphia highlights…
- Indulging in a suite at The Lokal Hotel, a stunning boutique hotel with boho-chic decor, an intimate ambiance, and seamless remote service.
- Enjoying an evening at the Assembly Rooftop Lounge for breathtaking city views, stylish design, and innovative frozen cocktails.
- Taking the Philly by Night Tour to witness the illuminated Philadelphia Museum of Art and Boathouse Row – a truly spectacular experience.
4. Ocean City, Maryland: Classic Beach Boardwalk Fun
Golden sands of Ocean City, Maryland
Iconic boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City, Maryland, a relaxed beach resort brimming with vintage charm, is an ideal destination for families and travelers seeking classic seaside fun. Situated on Maryland’s east coast, south of Philadelphia, I was charmed by its expansive golden beaches, iconic three-mile boardwalk, amusement parks, and famous pier.
My May visit offered pleasant warmth without intense heat, fewer crowds, and attractive spring discounts on a variety of accommodations, from beachfront hotels to private condo rentals.
While the ocean might be a bit too cool for extended swimming, it was perfect for beach relaxation, jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even parasailing.
Staying at the SeaLoft Oceanfront Hotel, a cool and funky option, was a great choice. A dolphin-watching cruise, a visit to Assateague Island’s wild ponies (a short drive away), and the lively Springfest at the beginning of May added to the Ocean City experience.
- Visitors Center Address: 4001 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842
- Average temperatures: 15-25°C (59-77°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Ocean City highlights…
- Experiencing the Jolly Roger Amusement Park, with its iconic Ferris wheel, classic carnival games, and nostalgic boardwalk atmosphere.
- Discovering Northside Park, a picturesque green space with stunning Assawoman Bay views and scenic paved biking trails.
5. Edisto Island, South Carolina: Serene and Unspoiled Coastal Beauty
Untouched beaches of Edisto Island, South Carolina
Edisto Island marshlands, South Carolina
Spanish moss draped oaks on Edisto Island, SC
Edisto Island, nestled between Charleston and Beaufort in South Carolina, is a truly unique and hidden gem that I absolutely adored. This unspoiled and uncrowded island offered a peaceful, low-key escape.
Visiting in May brought pleasant temperatures and manageable humidity, ideal conditions before the summer tourist influx. It also marked the start of loggerhead sea turtle nesting season, a truly special experience to witness.
Edisto’s natural landscape is wild and captivating, with pristine sandy beaches, majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss, vast marshlands, and driftwood-strewn shorelines, creating a serene and natural setting. Accommodation options, from cottage rentals and beach houses to charming bed & breakfasts and campgrounds, reflect this laid-back vibe.
Relaxing on Edisto Beach, delving into the island’s past at the Edisto Island Historic Preservation Museum, and exploring the breathtaking Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve and Wildlife Management Area, where I observed dolphins and nesting sea turtles, were unforgettable moments.
- Visitors Center Address: 104 Palmetto Blvd, Edisto Island, SC 29438
- Average temperature: 24-29°C (75-84°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Edisto Island highlights…
- Kayaking through the remarkable marshes and tidal creeks, and taking a guided eco-tour down the tranquil Edisto River.
- Camping overnight at the Oceanfront Campground and waking up to stunning beach and ocean views.
6. Sacramento, California: Farm-to-Fork Freshness and Historic Charm
Historic Old Town Sacramento, California
Trendy cafe in Sacramento, California
Sacramento, California’s vibrant yet relaxed capital, truly won me over. I was charmed by its incredible farmers markets, thriving farm-to-table dining scene, unique shops, walkable neighborhoods, boutique hotels, and historic district filled with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings.
A weekend break in early May, staying at the trendy Exchange Hotel, was perfectly timed. I enjoyed pleasant temperatures just before summer crowds and peak season hotel prices arrived. The city was buzzing with life after the cooler months.
Flowers were blooming in parks and gardens, and May brought a plethora of events. The Sacramento Music Festival, the Cinco de Mayo Festival, and the Farm-to-Fork Spring Farmers’ Market were my personal highlights.
Exploring the historic Old Town District, touring the State Capitol Museum, paddling in the American River, and cruising the Sacramento River offered a diverse Sacramento experience.
- Visitors Center Address: 1000 2nd St, Sacramento, CA 95814
- Average temperature: 20-29°C (68-84°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Sacramento highlights…
- Dining at the legendary farm-to-table Mulvaney’s B&L, housed in a converted firehouse with a charming garden patio. The Bella Rosa Potato Gratin is a must-try.
- Immersing myself in art at the Crocker Art Museum, the oldest art museum in the Western US, housed in a stunning Victorian-era mansion.
- Enjoying a sunset river cruise with Hornblower Cruises, admiring the Tower Bridge, Delta King riverboat, and Sacramento skyline from the water.
7. Bend, Oregon: Outdoor Adventures and Craft Brews
Outdoor activities in Bend, Oregon – ideal for May
Spring scenery in Bend, Oregon
Bend Oregon – a top May destination
Bend, Oregon, a cool city on the edge of the Cascade Mountain Range, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Located about 160 miles from Portland, I was drawn to its thriving foodie and craft beer scene, adventurous spirit, and stunning natural surroundings.
Spring in Bend, with its pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, is perfect for extended hikes. Wildflowers bloom, wildlife is active, and you’ll find fewer crowds and better accommodation rates compared to summer. Accommodation options range from upscale resorts and boutique hotels to camping and cabin rentals.
May offers comfortable weather for Bend’s many activities: mountain biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, floating down the Deschutes River (spring runoff makes the rivers fast-flowing!), rock climbing, caving, lava tube exploration, and golf.
Hiking trails abound, and the Misery Ridge Trail, Deschutes River Trails, and Tumalo Falls Trail, leading to a breathtaking 97-foot waterfall, were my favorite explorations.
- Visitors Center Address: 750 NW Lava Rd #160, Bend, OR 97703
- Average temperature: 15°C to 24°C (59-75°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Bend highlights…
- Visiting Crux Fermentation Project, a hipster-friendly craft brewery. Try their Bochi Bochi Japanese rice lager!
- Hiking the Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area, filled with striking rock formations and juniper trees – perfect for Instagram photos.
- Exploring Newberry National Volcanic Monument and its fascinating volcanic landscapes, especially Lava Butte.
8. Texas Hill Country: Wildflowers, Wineries, and Charming Towns
Rolling hills of Texas Hill Country
Garner State Park in Texas Hill Country in May
Texas Hill Country wildflowers in bloom
Texas Hill Country, located in Central Texas between Austin and San Antonio, is a truly underrated gem. I was captivated by its beautiful scenery: rolling hills, quaint towns, winding rivers, and sparkling lakes.
May is an ideal time to visit, with fewer summer crowds, great accommodation deals, vibrant wildflowers in full bloom, and lush spring landscapes. Accommodation options are diverse, ranging from unique treehouses and yurts to boutique hotels and luxury resorts.
The warm temperatures of the spring shoulder season (late March through May) are perfect for outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, river tubing, winery tours, swimming in natural pools, birdwatching, scenic drives, and camping.
Exploring caves, especially the popular Natural Bridge Caverns, and discovering charming towns with Germanic heritage like Fredericksburg, New Braunfels, and Boerne were highlights of my trip.
May also brings exciting food and wine festivals, including the Hill Country Wine & Food Festival, Cinco de Mayo celebrations, and the Poteet Strawberry Festival.
- Visitor’s Centre Address: 160 Ingram Hills Rd, Ingram, TX 78025, Phone: +1 830-367-2151
- Average temperature: 18-29°C (64-84°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Texas Hill Country highlights…
- Experiencing the quirky glamping site El Cosmico in Marfa, staying in a vintage trailer with fun decor and a unique, artistic vibe.
- Staying at Messina Hof, one of Texas’ oldest wineries, in a charming themed cottage amidst stunning vineyards, and sampling their Cabernet Franc.
- Discovering the hidden gem Cave Without a Name near Boerne, and taking a guided tour 80 feet underground to see breathtaking limestone formations.
9. Savannah, Georgia: Southern Charm and Floral Beauty
Elegant Savannah, Georgia – perfect for May travel
River Street in Savannah, Georgia
Spring blooms in Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, Georgia, is a city of refined elegance and Southern charm. During my visit, I was enchanted by its gorgeous townhouses, cobblestone streets, historic antebellum mansions, and iconic oak trees draped in Spanish moss – truly Instagram-worthy!
Savannah’s subtropical climate makes May an ideal visiting time, along with March to June and mid-September to mid-November.
In May, Savannah is adorned with flowers, and azaleas bloom profusely in parks and gardens. Pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and reasonable accommodation prices before peak season made my visit perfect.
May also brings wonderful festivals, from the Savannah Music Festival to vibrant Cinco de Mayo celebrations.
Exploring Forsyth Park, the historic district with its 18th-century buildings, taking a riverboat cruise along the waterfront, and discovering unique shops on River Street were delightful Savannah experiences.
- Visitors’ Centre Address: 301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401
- Average temperature: 24-29°C (75-84°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Savannah highlights…
- Staying at The Gastonian, a romantic historic boutique hotel in a Regency-Italianate mansion, and enjoying their sociable afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres.
- Dining on hearty Southern cuisine at The Olde Pink House Restaurant, housed in a colorful colonial mansion with elegant vintage decor; the sweet potato ravioli with pecan sauce is divine.
- Taking a spooky and fun ghost tour with Haunted Savannah Tours and learning local legends, especially at the eerie Sorrel-Weed House.
10. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia: Wildflower Hikes and Mountain Views
Lush landscapes of Shenandoah National Park, Virginia in May
Scenic overlooks in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park, nestled in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, is a truly underrated natural treasure. I discovered dense forests, wildflower-covered hills, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas – a peaceful backcountry experience within easy reach.
May, along with April, offers pleasant temperatures perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. It’s also quieter before the summer crowds arrive.
Gorgeous wildflowers and azaleas bloom in May, lush green foliage fills the trees, and waterfalls are at their peak flow.
Attending the Wildflower Weekend held in early May, camping, birdwatching, scenic drives along Skyline Drive, wildlife spotting, waterfall hikes, and ranger-led programs filled my Shenandoah visit. My favorite trails were Old Rag Mountain (challenging!), Whiteoak Canyon (scenic), and Dark Hollow Falls (picturesque).
- Visitor’s Centre Address: 17065 Skyline Drive, Front Royal, VA 22630
- Average temperature: 16°C to 24°C (61-75°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Shenandoah highlights…
- Hiking the popular 1.4-mile round trip Dark Hollow Falls Trail to see its beautiful waterfall.
- Driving the scenic Skyline Drive, with its numerous overlooks and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views.
11. Monterey, California: Coastal Charms and Whale Watching
Monterey coastline in springtime, California
Historic Cannery Row in Monterey, California
Spring blooms in Monterey, California
Monterey, a charming coastal gem on California’s central coast, is a place I always enjoy visiting. I find it quirky and captivating with its beautiful coastline, intriguing architecture, historic waterfront, and abundant marine life.
May is an ideal time to visit, just before summer crowds arrive and accommodation prices peak. The weather is warm, with less fog and clearer days than summer.
Wildflowers bloom along coastal trails, and May is prime whale watching season in Monterey Bay, as humpback and blue whales migrate through the area.
During my trip, I stayed at the exceptionally stylish Portola Hotel & Spa. Exploring Cannery Row, with its former warehouses now housing cool restaurants, discovering Monterey Bay, enjoying the California Roots Music and Arts Festival (an annual May event), and strolling along the characterful Old Fisherman’s Wharf were highlights.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 419 Webster St Suite 100, Monterey, CA 93940
- Average temperatures: 10°C to 18°C (50-64°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Monterey highlights…
- Hiking the scenic 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, with breathtaking ocean views and spring wildflowers.
- Visiting The Monterey Museum of Art, and appreciating their artist workshops.
- Dining at Lalla Oceanside Grill on Cannery Row – chic, relaxed décor, stunning beach views, and delicious Custard Bread Pudding.
12. Yosemite National Park, California: Majestic Waterfalls and Granite Giants
Iconic Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park in Springtime
Yosemite National Park, in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, is undeniably one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. About 170 miles east of San Francisco, I was awestruck by its towering granite cliffs, iconic vistas, stunning waterfalls, and giant sequoias – truly awe-inspiring!
Spring, particularly May, is an excellent time to visit, just before peak summer crowds. Wildlife is more active (bear awareness is essential!), wildflowers bloom, waterfalls are at their strongest, accommodation is slightly cheaper, and temperatures are ideal for hiking and outdoor activities like rock climbing, biking, camping, and rafting.
Capturing the iconic sights of El Capitan and Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls, Glacier Point, and Valley View was an unforgettable experience.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 9035 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
- Average temperatures: 16°C to 24°C (61-75°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Yosemite highlights…
- Driving the breathtaking Tioga Pass (State Route 120, typically opening in spring), traversing the Sierra Nevada mountains and entering Yosemite’s high country.
- Stopping at Tunnel View on State Highway 41 for iconic views of El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and Half Dome – a must-see viewpoint.
- Renting a bike from Yosemite Valley Lodge and cycling the mostly flat, traffic-free Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, enjoying views of El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the Merced River.
13. Austin, Texas: Live Music and Urban Fun in the Texas Capital
Downtown Austin, Texas, a vibrant city in May
Barton Creek Bridge, Austin, Texas
Austin skyline in summer, Texas
Austin, the funky capital of Texas, known as the “Music City”, is always a blast. In central Texas, it blends shiny high-rises, historic landmarks, great restaurants, cool bars, and diverse neighborhoods.
May in Austin offers ideal temperatures (summer can be too hot for some) and a packed calendar of festivals. The Hot Luck Festival (food and music), Pecan Street Festival (arts and crafts), and iHeartCountry Festival (music) are top picks.
Exploring downtown Austin’s restaurants, trendy shops, and live music venues, swimming in Barton Springs, biking around Lady Bird Lake, sampling food trucks, and experiencing the hipster vibe of South Congress and East Austin’s street art were all Austin must-dos.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 111 Congress Ave. Suite 700, Austin, TX 78701
- Average temperatures: 18°C to 29°C (64-84°F)
- Location and Directions
My Austin highlights…
- Staying at The LINE Hotel, a trendy spot with industrial-chic décor, a rooftop pool, and Lady Bird Lake views.
- Trying food carts near Zilker Park at “The Picnic,” especially the Hot & Crunchy Avocado Cone from Mighty Cone and Double Dose chocolate cake from Hey Cupcake!
- Learning to two-step dance at the legendary Broken Spoke honky-tonk.
- Shopping for unique gifts at Blue Genie Art Bazaar and South Congress Avenue, and browsing boutiques in the 2nd Street District, like edgy Austin Rocks and chic Hemline.
14. Wolfeboro, New Hampshire: Lakeside Tranquility and New England Charm
Lakefront in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire
Historic buildings in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire
Wolfeboro, New Hampshire in May – an idyllic getaway
Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, known as “The Oldest Summer Resort in America,” is a tranquil New England gem that impressed me. This historic resort town on Lake Winnipesaukee’s eastern shore offers a quaint, slow-paced vibe.
I was won over by its charming historic buildings, stunning lake views, lush forests, and the scenic Belknap Mountain Range backdrop.
May visits offer perfect spring temperatures and a peaceful local feel before summer crowds.
Spring blooms and local farmers markets, like the Wolfeboro Area Farmers’ Market, add to the charm.
Exploring downtown with its cafes and antique stores, relaxing at Allen Albee Beach, visiting the Wright Museum of WWII, enjoying the Cotton Valley Rail Trail, and exploring the New Hampshire Boat Museum were all great experiences. Accommodation ranges from historic inns and lakeside resorts to cozy B&Bs and cottage rentals.
- Visitors Center Address: 84 South Main St, Wolfeboro, New Hampshire 03894
- Average temperatures: 15-20°C (59-68°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Wolfeboro highlights…
- Dining at waterfront Garwoods Restaurant for lake views and butternut squash ravioli.
- Swimming and kayaking on Lake Wentworth, a popular spot for paddleboarding.
- Picnicking at Cate Park near the gazebo for stunning lake views.
15. Port Aransas, Texas: Relaxed Beach Town and Coastal Wildlife
Sandy beaches of Port Aransas, Texas
Boats in Port Aransas harbor, Texas
Warm beach break in Port Aransas, Texas in May
Port Aransas, a hidden gem on Mustang Island, part of the Gulf Coast, truly impressed me. This laid-back beach town offers sandy beaches, ocean views, stunning sunsets, and dolphin watching.
May is ideal, before the intense summer heat and humidity, with very warm and pleasant temperatures perfect for swimming, and a relaxed vibe before summer vacationers arrive. Accommodation, from beachfront resorts to budget motels and vacation rentals, is also easier to find.
Beyond the beach, Roberts Point Park with its bay-view observation tower (dolphin spotting!), the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center with its boardwalk over wetlands, and boat trips to San José Island were highlights.
- Visitors Center Address: 403 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
- Average temperature: 24°C to 29°C (75-84°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Port Aransas highlights…
- Dolphin watching tours with The Scarlet Lady, seeing Lydia Ann Lighthouse, seabirds, and playful dolphins.
- Photographing sunsets at Port Aransas Beach, Horace Caldwell Pier, and Mustang Island State Park.
- Visiting the Port Aransas Museum and its Farley Boat Works exhibit in a unique 20th-century kit house.
- Watching surfers, windsurfers, and kiteboarders at Port Aransas Beach.
16. Atlanta, Georgia: Southern Hospitality and City Excitement
Atlanta cityscape, USA in May
Atlanta Botanical Garden in Spring
Atlanta city views in summer
Atlanta, Georgia, nicknamed “Hotlanta,” is a city that truly captivates. In northern Georgia, it offers awesome attractions, beautiful parks, a diverse food scene, eclectic shopping, a thriving culture and music scene, and warm Southern hospitality.
Atlanta is a great year-round destination with a subtropical climate, but summers can be very hot and humid. Spring and September to November offer ideal temperatures and lower humidity.
May brings fewer crowds than summer peak, and better deals on accommodations, from trendy boutiques and luxury resorts to private rentals and cozy B&Bs.
City green spaces come alive in May with concerts, blooming flowers in parks and the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and outdoor dining. Pleasant weather, moderate prices, and events make May a fantastic time to visit.
My spring weekend break included rooftop cocktails, the free Atlanta Jazz Festival, downtown restaurants and shops, a ride on SkyView Atlanta, exploring Midtown, and picnicking in Centennial Olympic Park.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 267 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
- Average temperatures: 18°C to 27°C (64-81°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Atlanta highlights…
- Staying at the trendy Hotel Clermont, with colorful retro décor and a rooftop bar with city views.
- Dining and playing darts at Flight Club, and trying their Truffle Fries and Iguana cocktail.
- Capturing street art across the city, especially the Krog Street Tunnel and West Midtown murals.
17. Sanibel Island, Florida: Shell-Strewn Beaches and Nature Preserves
Blind Pass Beach on Sanibel Island, Florida – perfect in May
Sanibel Island coastline, Florida
Sanibel Island, Florida, accessible via a three-mile bridge, prioritizes nature preservation, making it a relaxing, low-key vacation spot. In southwest Florida on the Gulf of Mexico, it boasts dreamy scenery: white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush mangroves.
May, just after peak tourist season (December to April), is peaceful with ideal temperatures and humidity for beach enjoyment and activities: swimming, snorkeling, jet skiing, paddleboarding, boating, windsurfing, biking, hiking, wildlife-watching (dolphins!), and shelling.
Lighthouse Beach, Causeway Beaches, the Sanibel Lighthouse, and the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge (covering much of the island) are must-sees. Accommodation ranges from luxury resorts to historic inns, vacation rentals, and campgrounds.
- Visitors’ Centre Address: 1159 Causeway Blvd, Sanibel, FL 33957
- Average temperature: 21°C to 29°C (70-84°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Sanibel Island highlights…
- Staying at Sanibel Island Beach Resort, with tropical décor, a family-friendly vibe, and beach access.
- Boat tours with Sanibel Dolphin and Wildlife Cruises, spotting dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles.
- Hiking the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) Trails through mangrove swamps and wetlands.
18. Monument Valley, Arizona: Iconic Desert Landscapes
Monument Valley in Utah and Arizona
Monument Valley scenic drive, Arizona
Monument Valley, in the Navajo Nation Reservation on the Arizona-Utah border, is a breathtaking natural wonder. Red sand desert with towering sandstone buttes, flat-topped hills, and spire-like formations create an extraordinary landscape.
May, along with March to late May, avoids summer heat and crowds. Soft spring lighting is ideal for photography, and temperatures are comfortable for exploring and hiking.
Driving Valley Drive (17 miles scenic route), Navajo guided tours of Mystery Valley and Ear of the Wind, hiking valley trails, and staying at The View Hotel with valley-view balconies were unforgettable.
- Visitors Center Address: U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
- Average temperatures: 16°C to 27°C (61-81°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Monument Valley highlights…
- Hiking the Wildcat Trail (3.2-mile loop) for close-up views of formations.
- Sunset views from John Ford’s Point, an iconic valley viewpoint.
- Starting at the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Visitor Center for information and panoramic monument views.
19. Las Vegas, Nevada: Entertainment and Desert Pools
Las Vegas Strip, Nevada
Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is the ultimate playground! Incredible resorts, 24-hour casinos, buffets, and endless entertainment – I never tire of it.
May, along with March to May and September to November, avoids extreme summer heat and offers comfortable temperatures.
May pool parties, spring events like Electric Daisy Carnival and Cinco de Mayo celebrations, and fewer crowds than summer make it a great time to visit.
Exploring hotels like The Venetian and Bellagio, celebrity chef restaurants (Gordon Ramsay, Wolfgang Puck!), Fashion Show Mall shopping, Encore Beach Club pool parties, and Cirque du Soleil shows are Vegas musts.
- Visitors Center Address: 495 S. Main St. Las Vegas, NV 89101
- Average temperatures: 16°C to 32°C (61-90°F)
- Location Map and Directions
My Las Vegas highlights…
- Staying in an MGM Grand West Wing room with sleek décor and a bathroom TV mirror.
- Trying delis and the rollercoaster at New York-New York Hotel & Casino – Greenberg’s Deli potato salad is divine!
- Helicopter champagne breakfast in the Grand Canyon with Maverick Helicopters.
