20 Best Places to Visit in May in the USA (+ Spring Tips)

May is definitely one of the best times to travel around the United States. This is a guide to the best places to visit in May in the USA!

Are you planning a trip around Memorial Day or when the schools let out and are looking for the top destinations to visit in the US in May? This post offers a hand-picked list of the best places to visit in the US in May!

I have recruited some of my favorite bloggers to add their input. Are you interested in visiting the national parks instead? Click here to check out our guide to the best national parks to visit in May.

Where to Travel in the USA in May

Oahu

Location: Hawaii
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 81F and lows of 67F; 3 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Oahu in May: festivals, dry season, fewer crowds than summer
Recommended by: Luke at Wild about BC

Whether you are coming for the beautiful scenery, to relax on the beach, or to catch some warm water waves, the island of Oahu in Hawaii is an awesome place to visit.

Oahu is considered a year-round destination but May might just be the best month of all to plan a trip there.

The weather in May is drier than the winter months, you’ll get nice warm temperatures, and best of all, the island is much quieter than the busy summer months of June, July, and August.  

You’ll get to enjoy all of the amazing things to do in Oahu, like visiting Lanikai Beach or Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens with just a fraction of the crowds.

There are also some cool events that happen in Oahu in May every year. Lei Day is on May 1st and it is a state-wide celebration of Hawaiian culture and the aloha spirit.

The main celebration is in Queen Kapiolani Park in Waikiki and features live music, hula performances, a lei competition, food trucks, and more.

The Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaii is another cool event that happens in Oahu on Memorial Day. Visitors can watch a stunning array of floating lanterns on the ocean which are released to show gratitude to the loved ones that have gone before us.

May is such a great time to visit this amazing island and you’ll get to enjoy some awesome events and great weather without too many people, making your Oahu itinerary easier to complete with ease!

Mackinac Island

Location: Michigan
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 61F and lows of 41F; 7 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Mackinac Island in May: end of the cold season, before the summer crowds come, lilacs blooming
Recommended by: Nicole at Bucket List Lists

One of the best places to visit in the USA in May is Mackinac Island, Michigan. Located on Lake Huron between the lower and upper peninsulas, this city comes alive from its cold winter slumber.

One of the main draws to the island is that no cars are allowed and everything is done on foot, bike, or horse and carriage. May is the start of the season with the lilacs starting to bloom around the end of the month and the festival coming shortly thereafter.

Must-do things on the island include taking a carriage tour to learn the history and see various points of interest, Arch Rock, eat your weight in fudge, a bar crawl, rent a bike and ride the outskirts around the island, see the sunrise on the lawn of Mission Point Resort, visit Fort Mackinac, stay at the Grand Hotel, eat whitefish, visit Fort Holmes, and stroll Main Street for the best local shops.

Mackinac Island is a top bucket list destination for many and the jewel of Michigan. One visit to this storybook town and you will feel like you are living in a real-life Hallmark movie.

Denver

Location: Colorado
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 73F and lows of 45F; 6 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Denver in May: Cinco de Mayo, botanical gardens, hiking opportunities
Recommended by: Editor’s choice

The capital of Colorado, Denver, is one of the most beautiful cities in the state. It is full of outdoorsy activities (it is the gateway to the Rocky Mountains), parks, museums, gorgeous architecture, and also it is known as one of the best places for a delicious beer in the US!

There are several popular attractions in Denver that you can’t miss out on visiting and one of them is Larimer Square, a popular landmark lined with red-brick buildings, wine boutiques, and several other historical points of interest.

Another place worth visiting is the Denver Botanic Gardens which offers 24 acres of green space with a variety of plant species. It’s especially exceptional to visit in May!

But the most famous thing that Denver is known for at this time of the year is the Cinco de Mayo.  It is said to be the nation’s largest and is a gathering of thousands of people celebrating on May 5 with a lot of music, food, and dancing.

Another wonderful thing about the city is that you will find some epic day trips from Denver – from the Eastern Plains to Boulder and beyond, the city is a wonderful base for some cool excursions!

San Francisco

Location: California
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 64F and lows of 51F; 2 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit San Francisco in May: festivals, dry season, fewer crowds than summer
Recommended by: Stephanie from Bey of Travel

San Francisco is one of the popular destinations in the USA. If you are visiting from overseas, or on a domestic vacation, remember that a San Francisco trip can get very expensive when it comes to accommodation and sightseeing in the peak tourist months.

That’s why visiting San Francisco in May allows you to beat the crowds, and enjoy this city with ease. SF is known to have foggy weather, and in May you can expect clear days and milder temperatures, generally. However, we do recommend carrying a light cardigan, and a scarf for chillier evenings.

May in San Francisco is filled with amazing festivals too. Taste of Potrero is a fun food festival that is held at the beginning of May, and all proceeds go to charitable causes.

SF’s Latino community celebrates Cinco de Mayo every year in May. Valencia Street between 21st and 24th Streets are all decked up in festive colors, and is a must add to your San Francisco itinerary.

Bay to Breakers is an annual foot race that takes place on the third Sunday of May in San Francisco. You can dress in your favorite costume while participating in this race!

Other popular events include the SF Ballet and many seasonal theater shows. The city also gears up for Mother’s Day special celebrations and shows around this time.

All the popular sightseeing attractions including Golden Gate Bridge, SF MOMA, SF Bay Cruises, free city walking tours, and museums are accessible and open in May. San Francisco Tourism also offers free museum days in the first week of every month.

Southern Utah

Location: Utah
Average temperatures and precipitation: varies depending on the location
Reasons to visit Southern Utah in May: extreme nature and fewer crowds, desert flowers, tolerable temperatures
Recommended by: Erika at Erika’s Travels

Southern Utah is an epic road trip destination that boasts iconic attractions and postcard-worth views. Amidst its red rock landscapes, you’ll find some of the most beautiful national parks in the United States.

Southern Utah’s national parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches—are collectively known as the Mighty 5.

Each of Utah’s national parks offers something different. Arches and Bryce Canyon are known for their short hikes and scenic drives. Capitol Reef is an underrated gem. Canyonlands is immense and varied. Zion showcases some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the American Southwest.

Unforgettable highlights of Utah’s Mighty 5 include the Chesler Park Trail in Canyonlands, the Cathedral Valley Loop in Capitol Reef, Angel’s Landing in Zion, Devil’s Garden in Arches, and Sunrise Point in Bryce Canyon National Park.

If you’re planning on visiting the Mighty 5, consider spending a minimum of one week in Southern Utah. You’ll want to dedicate at least one day to each park, though visiting lesser-known areas requires more time.

May is a fantastic time to visit Utah’s Mighty 5. A warm and sunny shoulder month, it avoids the scorching temperatures and relentless crowds that accompany summer visits. It also provides the best opportunities to see wildlife and desert flowers.

Virginia Beach

Location: Virginia
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 76F and lows of 58F; 8 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Virginia Beach in May: spring festivals, beat the summer heat, beat the crowds
Recommended by: Editor’s choice

One of the most popular beach cities in the United States and one of the most exciting places to visit in Virginia is the city of Virginia Beach. It has so much to offer visitors in May… the temperatures are comfortable and the crowds haven’t arrived (unless you visit during Memorial Day)!

If visiting Virginia Beach in May, you will find many festivals, such as the Neptune Spring Wine + Food Festival where you can try up to 70 types of local and international wines and food.

Another festival to enjoy during May in VA Beach is the Pungo Off Road Monsters – an oceanfront festival involving monster trucks and vehicles.

Another great perk of visiting Virginia Beach in May is that hurricane season hasn’t arrived and you can partake in some of the best hikes Virginia’s most populous city has to offer. 

Some of the best hikes in Virginia Beach are in First Landing State Park, the most-visited state park in the state.

Charlotte

Location: North Carolina
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 80F and lows of 57F; 7 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Charlotte in May: beat the summer heat, several festivals, amusement parks open
Recommended by: Veronika from Jigsaw Puzzle Queen

May is one of the best months to visit Charlotte, NC. The weather is pleasant and not too hot yet. It’s a time when many festivals take place. At the beginning of the month, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated, and usually also a 2-day fine art event known as the Kings Drive Art Walk.

Mid-May sees the annual Dragon boat races take place in Ramsey Creek Park as part of the Asian Festival.

Towards May’s end, NASCAR races are held at Charlotte Motor Speedway and include a fun program for the whole family.

Plenty of community festivals happen on May weekends too (e.g. on the Mother’s Day weekend!). Outdoor music events start taking place in May and run through September – such as “Alive After Five” at EpiCentre every Thursday.

Strolling along the Charlotte Rail Trail, you’ll also encounter a number of fun outdoor venues. The parks are blossoming in springtime and it’s a lovely time of year to spend as much time outside as possible. E.g. Freedom Park belongs to one of the largest and nicest ones.

For those more active, there are plenty of hiking trails around Charlotte. May is also a good time to get the adrenaline pumping at one of Charlotte’s amusement parks. Carowinds, 13 miles south of Charlotte, belongs to the main ones.

Then there’s the U.S. National Whitewater Center boasting the world’s largest man-made whitewater river – you can go kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or whitewater rafting. In addition, Charlotte makes a great base for several weekend getaways!

Galena

Location: Illinois
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 71F and lows of 48F; 9 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Galena in May: comfortable weather, kayaking and hiking opportunities, local wine
Recommended by: Daria at The Discovery Nut

Located in the northwestern part of the state, Galena, Illinois boasts green rolling hills and unique Illinois small town charm with its quaint downtown where you can find shops, restaurants, and other businesses catering to tourists.

The weather is nice enough to be outside while the peak tourist season hasn’t started yet.

If you are going to visit Galena for the first time, you should begin your trip to the city’s historic district. And don’t forget to grab your camera because it’s where you will find many historic buildings along the city’s Main Street.

From there, you can proceed toward Galena’s Grant Park, a perfect place to have a picnic and relax before continuing to explore this town.

If you are into the outdoors, you will have tons of fun in Galena. Unlike the rest of Illinois, Galena has hills, which allow for hiking opportunities.

For example, Apple River Canyon State Park has five hiking trails and scenery, and the Galena River is one of the best places to go kayaking in Illinois.

And finally, don’t forget to check one of the local wineries. In addition to tasting local wine in one of the stores in downtown Galena, you can also visit Fergedaboudit Vineyard & Winery a quick drive away to sample wine and enjoy their beautiful scenery.

New York City

Location: New York
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 72F and lows of 54F; 9 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit NYC in May: several festivals, Central Park has warmed up and is enjoyable
Recommended by: Chrisoula at Travel Passionate

May is a great time to visit New York City. The days are warmer and all the spring flowers are in bloom. Also, there are fewer crowds and you will get to enjoy the city’s main attractions without waiting in long lines.

Central Park is at its best with its lakes, fountains, and spring flowers. Highline Park, built on an old railway line, looks great with all the trees in blossom and it is a great place to grab some food from the nearby Chelsea Market sit on a bench and people watch.

There are also many fun events to enjoy in New York in May. The Dance Parade on the 15th of May attracts 10,000 dancers and there are live bands and DJs and everyone is dancing!

The 27th of May to the 1st of June is Fleet Week, a time that is dedicated to sailors in the US Navy and is a huge music festival.

Manhattanhenge takes place on the 29-30th of May and is a solstice when the sun aligns with the east and west streets in Manhattan and this is a popular photo opportunity! May 31 is a huge day for New Yorkers as it honors the Armed Forces with colorful parades at Bay Bridge, Brooklyn.

Santa Barbara

Location: California
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 70F and lows of 53F; 0 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Santa Barbara in May: whale watching, beautiful beaches, nearby hiking opportunities
Recommended by: Editor’s choice

Spring is the best time to visit lovely Santa Barbara because the weather is absolutely perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the beautiful landscapes and beaches.

Many travelers visit Santa Barbara in May as it is one of the best places to go whale watching in the United States in spring.

The migration of humpback whales is a very big event and many tour companies arrange tours to allow curious visitors the chance to witness the migration with their own eyes.

Santa Barbara is also known as the city where it is possible to enjoy many outdoor activities and one of the nearby places to do so is the Ynez Mountains. There are several hiking and biking opportunities there.

Don’t miss out on a visit to one of the most famous sights in Santa Barbara, Stearns Wharf, a seaside boardwalk and the oldest working wharf in the state of California that dates back to 1872.

And if you are visiting Santa Barbara in May, don’t forget to plan a visit to Channel Islands National Park, one of the least-visited national parks in the United States (and one of the most underrated)!

Boston

Location: Massachusetts
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 67F and lows of 50F; 8 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Boston in May: beautiful cherry blossoms and other flowers in bloom, fewer tourists than summer
Recommended by: Caroline at Pack the Suitcases

Boston, the capital of Massachusetts in New England, is a vibrant city offering plenty to see and do. The weather in Boston in May tends to be cool and fresh but sunny.

There also aren’t too many tourists at this time of year, but everything is still bustling to a nice degree. So spring is the perfect time for exploring the city!

As part of a fun-packed Boston itinerary, you should definitely make time to relax with a picnic among the colorful tulips in Boston Common.

This lush green space in the center of the city looks stunning in May as everything starts to bloom.

Take a ride on a swan boat around the lake, which is encircled by pretty pink cherry blossom trees.

Head over to nearby Quincy Market for lunch, choosing from the myriad of cuisines available (opt for a lobster roll!), before doing the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile tour of American Revolution points and landmarks.

If you’re unlucky and have a spring downpour, there are plenty of indoor things to do in Boston too. The Museum of Fine Arts is a huge contemporary art gallery.

There’s also the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, an eclectic collection of art in a breathtaking setting (perfect for those Instagram shots!).

North Georgia Mountains

Location: Georgia
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 78F and lows of 52F; 9 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit the North Georgia Mountains in May: wildflowers bloom, wildlife emerging, comfortable temperatures
Recommended by: Bret Love & Mary Gabbett at Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

As a kid growing up in a working-class family in Atlanta, exploring the mountains of North Georgia provided some of my strongest formative travel memories.

I can still remember backpacking with my parents and our church youth group for days on the Appalachian Trail (which starts on Springer Mountain GA) when I was just 6 years old. So perhaps I’m a little biased in suggesting that my old stomping grounds is one of the best places in the country to visit.

But anyone who has spent time around charming mountain towns like the Alpine village of Helen or Blue Ridge GA knows that North Georgia offers a wonderful array of wilderness areas for nature lovers to explore. And May just so happens to be an excellent time to do so!

Picture this: You’re exploring the southern tip of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with the morning light revealing a misty haze coming off the trees of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

There are hiking trails to cascading waterfalls, gurgling streams stuffed with trout, whitewater rivers, and picture-perfect mountain lakes nearly everywhere you turn.

The white-tailed deer and black bears begin to emerge with their young, and a dazzling array of birds, bees, butterflies, and dragonflies flit and buzz about as they search for nectar. Wildflowers begin to crop up everywhere, with native Azaleas, Rhododendron, and Honeysuckle adding sweet smells that waft on the gentle breeze.

The spring rains turn everything in these hills a brilliant verdant green, and the temperatures at this elevation (3,000+ feet) remain relatively cool considering the fact that you’re still in the Deep South. Sounds pretty perfect, doesn’t it? Welcome to the North Georgia mountains!

Click here to see the perfect Blue Ridge Parkway itinerary!

Oklahoma

Location: –
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 79F and lows of 58F; 7 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Oklahoma in May: wildflowers everywhere, festivals in Tulsa and OKC
Recommended by: Melissa at Parenthood and Passports

When you think of May in Oklahoma, you may think of severe weather, thunderstorms, or even tornadoes. The state in the central plains of the United States is, in fact, known as being the heart of “Tornado Alley”.

But don’t let the rare chance of experiencing a tornado keep you from visiting Oklahoma in May. In fact, let it be part of the reason you visit. You can actually take a storm chasing tour in Oklahoma, and May offers your best chance at getting in on the action!

Despite the occasional storm, May is also one of the best times to visit the state because of the beautiful, and colorful Oklahoma wildflowers are in peak bloom!

There are several remarkable flowers that grow wild in Oklahoma, including the brilliant red Indian Paintbrush, the bright blue and purple bluebonnets, and the vibrant yellow coreopsis.

All of these flowers can be seen growing wild along the roadways throughout the state. Additionally, fields of canola peak in late-April to mid-May. Although technically a crop rather than a wildflower, canola fields paint the brown Oklahoma landscape an intense shade of yellow each May.

To see the beautiful fields of wildflowers in the state, you don’t have to go far from Oklahoma’s two metropolitan areas of Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

Both cities offer a great, lively atmosphere, and a range of activities for all types of travelers including couples, families, and solo travelers. For art, food, and music lovers, Tulsa hosts Mayfest in early May, where you can sample international cuisine and check out arts and crafts created by local artisans.

If visiting Oklahoma City instead, the trendy Paseo District is a great place to spend time mingling with locals and exploring OKC’s quirky side. The district hosts the First Fridays Gallery Walk beginning in May as well as the Paseo Arts Festival later in the month.

Las Vegas

Location: Nevada
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 90F and lows of 53F; 0 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Las Vegas in May: near several national and state parks, too hot in summer
Recommended by: Dhara at It’s Not About the Miles

Some of the best things to do in Vegas are actually located outside the city. May is a wonderful time to do day trips around Vegas, to explore some of the great outdoors. The weather is reasonable in most places, and downright beautiful in parks like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Visit Lake Mead Recreational Area, where you can hike, or go boating or cruising on the lake. While you are there, take in the engineering marvel that is Hoover Dam, one of the coolest places in Nevada.

Do scenic drives through the Red Rock National Conservancy Area and Valley of Fire State Park. You can hike early or late in the day, look for wildlife, and hunt for petroglyphs in Valley of Fire.

Further out, you must definitely plan to visit Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Allow at least a day for each park, more if you can, to be able to hike, and savor the natural beauty. Closer to Vegas, Mount Charleston makes for another exciting outdoor destination.

In Vegas, walk Las Vegas Boulevard to take in the beautiful facades of the resorts, and watch the fountain show at the Bellagio, which is beautiful and free! While it gets hot during the day, mornings and evenings are very pleasant and perfect for strolling.

Enjoy pool time during the day, when it is too warm to wander. The Big Bus Tour, where you tour Vegas in an open-top, double-decker bus by night, is a fun option for balmy May evenings.

Oregon Coast

Location: Oregon
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 60F and lows of 45F; 11 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit the Oregon Coast in May: cheaper accommodation, hiking opportunities, better weather after storm season
Recommended by: Editor’s choice

The gorgeous Oregon Coast has so much to offer visitors in May as travelers arrive just as the stormy season has finished and the tides are low and enjoyable.

One of the most popular beaches on the Oregon coast is Cannon Beach, a great weekend destination for many tourists where you can enjoy tasty seafood restaurants, play on the beach, see the home of puffins at Haystack Rock, and experience the many Ecola State Park hiking trails.

May is also giving the opportunity for travelers to rent accommodation and Airbnbs in Cannon Beach at more affordable prices than in the high season.

The Oregon Coast is also known for many attractions like Yaquina Head, a gorgeous natural area where you will see amazing marine life or different sea birds and tide-pools. If you are lucky, you can see majestic gray whales during the non-migration period! 

Another unique place that the Oregon Coast offers is Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, 40 miles of golden sand coastlines where you can hike along famous trails like the John Dellenback Dunes Trail. 

There are several destinations that make for perfect weekend trips from Portland and beyond!

Nashville

Location: Tennessee
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 79F and lows of 57F; 9 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Nashville in May: Nashville Annual Street Food Month, great day trips, several festivals
Recommended by: Disha at Disha Discovers

There are so many beautiful places to visit in May in the United States and Nashville, Tennessee is one of them. May is the perfect time to visit Music City because the weather is more pleasant and there are fewer crowds. It’s the best time to sit outdoors and enjoy the infamous live music scene.

The main reason to visit Nashville in May is to experience the Nashville Annual Street Food Month event. It’s no secret that Nashville is home to some of the most amazing food in the country.

You’ll find Nashville’s most famed food trucks scattered around the city, giving you an opportunity to sample some of the delicious local cuisines.

Another fun event that happens in May is the Nashville Rosé Festival. You can try over 70 Rosé wines, local craft beer, cocktails, and more.

The Tennessee Craft Fair is also held in May. This is a free event held in Centennial Park and you can browse through the works of crafters from all over the state. This is the perfect event to purchase a souvenir to remember your trip by.

Aside from actual events, make a picnic lunch and eat it at Centennial Park while admiring the Parthenon. It’s a full-scale replica of the one in Athens.

Lastly, go on a day trip to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The weather will be perfect for hiking. Alternatively, there are several fantastic places to go camping near Nashville.

Sierra Nevada Mountains

Location: California
Average temperatures and precipitation: varies depending on location
Reasons to visit the Sierra Nevadas in May: scenic byways open, beat the summer crowds, wildflowers, and powerful waterfalls
Recommended by: Dan at Cabin Critic

The Sierra Nevada mountain range in California is a perfect destination for travel in May. At this time of year, the national parks are starting to come alive after the long winter and the weather is perfect for exploring the area before the summertime crowds have all arrived.

The Sierra Nevada mountains are home to three national parks including Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks.

You will also find several notable landmarks including the largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe, the largest tree in the world, General Sherman (which is best seen on a trail in Sequoia National Park).

While visiting Lake Tahoe in May you can see the city come alive again after the snow has melted away. It is a great time for camping, rock climbing, and enjoying the local events like the farmer markets, flea markets, music festivals, and car shows.

In May, the national parks are perfect for hiking and exploring now that the snow is gone. In Yosemite, you will find wildflowers and waterfalls making it the perfect time for hiking to waterfalls and biking.

You can see the giant sequoia trees and possibly see some of the black bears in the area at Sequoia National Park. 

Drive the Kings Canyon’s scenic byway which opens in May and provides amazing views and takes you to trailheads leading to waterfalls and eventually into the valley’s floor.

New Orleans

Location: Louisiana
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 85F and lows of 68F; 4 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit New Orleans in May: Jazz Fest, comfortable temperatures, National Shrimp Day
Recommended by: Theresa at Fueled By Wanderlust

The city of New Orleans is a fun destination for a May getaway, whether it’s to celebrate life, explore NOLA in nice weather, or experience the Jazz Fest.

New Orleans offers the perfect setting for a May celebration.  Especially legally strolling with margaritas in the vibrant French Quarter for Cinco de Mayo, or taking your mom to an elegant brunch at Brennan’s for Mother’s Day.

Of course, don’t forget National Shrimp Day on May 10th, where you should celebrate by grabbing a fried shrimp po’ boy at Parkway Bakery and Tavern.  The native Gulf shrimp used in New Orleans cuisine is truly mouthwatering and is a must on every visit.

The warm temperatures and low rainfall in May make this month particularly great for exploring New Orleans.  The average temperature is in the lower 80s, so it can be hot, but it hasn’t gotten scorching enough yet to be uncomfortable.

Therefore, you must do a walking tour, such as sampling traditional New Orleans food and cocktails, or exploring an above-ground cemetery, like St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.

Finally, if you visit New Orleans in early May, you’ll have the chance to experience Jazz Fest. This annual celebration, held at the Fair Grounds, features a dense line-up of musicians and stall after stall of local food.

This cultural celebration highlights the tradition of jazz music in New Orleans, where it was invented in the early 1900s. Click here to check out a fantastic New Orleans itinerary for your trip!

Fredericksburg

Location: Texas
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 83F and lows of 63F; 6 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Fredericksburg in May: bluebonnets, beat the summer temperatures, delicious food, Wine and Wildflower Wine Trail
Recommended by: Ellie at Ellie’s Travel Tips

May is by far the best time to head on down to Fredericksburg, Texas. The average temperatures sit right in the mid-70s during the month of May, offering cooler and calmer weather before the blistering Texas summers hit. It’s the perfect (long) day trip from Dallas or Austin.

Nestled in the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is one of the top cute towns in Texas. Head out to the rolling hills to discover thousands of colorful wildflower varieties.

Keep an eye out for the blooming Bluebonnets while strolling the area’s meadows to catch a glimpse at one of the must-see Texas Hill Country spectacles.

Wine-lovers will also be happy to visit Fredericksburg in May as they are plenty of wine tastings and tours along the famous Wine & Wildflower Wine Trail.

History buffs will also love this cute Texas town as it is home to the National Museum of the Pacific War. Here, you will find elaborate exhibits illustrating the Pacific Theater with thousands of artifacts and historic machinery.

Make sure to stop in at one of the city’s unique dining venues to try some authentic Fredericksburg food. From Texas Hill Country cuisine at the Cabernet Grill to German cuisine at Der Lindenbaum, your stomach will be thanking you for visiting Fredericksburg in May.

Boise

Location: Idaho
Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 74F and lows of 44F; 6 days of precipitation
Reasons to visit Boise in May: ideal weather, few tourists, many festivals and events
Recommended by: Kay at The Awkward Traveller

Boise, Idaho is the perfect US destination in May both due to the perfect weather, sparse tourist crowds, and plentiful festivals and events throughout late spring.

Boise, and the surrounding nature escapes, bloom the brightest in May, and the temperatures are cool in the mornings and evenings, but warm enough for picnics and strolls through the park during the day.

There are a lot of things to do in Boise in May, from doing food tours with Indulge Boise as Spring pop-ups open to driving out for day trips to Shoshone Falls and Craters of the Moon National Park without having to fight with the summer and fall crowds are brave the icy winter roads.

As far as festivals, there is a festival for just about everyone in May. For foodies, you can catch the Russian food festival, which honors the Ascension of the Lord, a day of brotherly communion within the Russian Orthodox Church – and for everyone else, an opportunity to feast on deliciously authentic Russian cuisine.

Architecture lovers might want to plan their trip during the Parade of Homes, which showcases innovative contemporary new construction homes, while those who are more into the arts will be delighted as multiple theaters begin their yearly shows and performances for the season.

If you’re wanting some nature, there are some great Boise day trips to check out.  One of the best is the small town of Stanley – a great base for exploring the Sawtooth Mountains and many hot springs.

We hope that this guide helped you pick out some fantastic places to visit in May in the USA!

We left a few popular May destinations, like Southern Florida and the Keys, off of this list as we have put them on previous ones! Let us know your top picks in the comments!

Traveling a month earlier?  Be sure to check out our guide to the best places to visit in April in the US instead!

You Might Also Like:

• Places to visit in Europe in March
• Places to visit in Europe in April
• Places to visit in USA in January
• Places to visit in USA in February
• Places to visit in USA in March
• Places to visit in USA in April
• Places to visit in USA in June
• Places to visit in USA in July
• Places to visit in USA in August
• Places to visit in USA in September
• Places to visit in USA in October
• Places to visit in USA in November
• Places to visit in USA in December

Pin this May in the USA Destinations Guide