28+ Best beautiful places to visit in may in usa 2023

May is a preferred month for me to travel around the USA because the pleasant weather, the blooming of spring, and the commencement of exciting festival scenes can be enjoyed without being bothered by the crowds and high prices of the summer season. It’s an ideal time to start off the summer season, and below are some of the top 28 Best beautiful places to visit in may in usa 2023, i tink you will love is destinations very much. Also Read: Top 10 places to visit in usa in may 2023

Here is Top 28 Beautiful places to visit in may in usa 2023

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, located on the beautiful central coast of California, is a favorite destination of many celebrities from around the world. This small town is very easy to walk around and boasts all the amenities of a big city. You’ll find some of the best restaurants and unique independent boutiques here.

The beautiful Spanish colonial architecture, with red-tiled roofs and white stucco buildings, makes Santa Barbara a delightful place to live. In May, the average temperature is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which is perfect for visiting before the summer crowds arrive.

There are lots of entertainment options in Santa Barbara, including live music at the County Bowl, an intimate outdoor amphitheater, and its very own symphony. For wine lovers, head to the Funk Zone on lower State Street for wine tasting, or take a day trip to nearby Santa Ynez Valley, which has over 120 world-class wineries.

Maui

Maui, one of the most popular Hawaiian islands, can get quite crowded once school is out in June. But if you plan a visit during shoulder season, you can avoid the crowds and have a fantastic time.

The water temperatures are getting warmer, and the daytime highs range between mid-70s and mid-80s throughout the month. Beautiful Plumeria, ginger, and hibiscus flowers are blooming all over the island, making it an ideal time to visit.

If you’re looking for a perfect place to celebrate Mother’s Day, Maui has plenty of excellent brunch options to honor your mom. Check out the Four Seasons Resort in Wailea or the Hali’imaile General Store. And don’t miss out on Maui’s famous food trucks!

If you’re planning a trip to Maui for 3 to 5 days, make sure to drive the incredible Road to Hana, catch a beautiful sunrise at the top of Mount Haleakala, and go snorkeling at Molokini Crater. But remember to add a warm jacket to your Hawaii packing list as it can get chilly up there!

If it’s your first visit to Hawaii, keep in mind that the best places to stay in Maui are mostly located on the western side of the island. Look for vacation rentals in Kihei and Lahaina or top resorts in Wailea.

Maine

Maine is a state in the USA that is known for its picturesque beauty. It boasts of hundreds of miles of stunning coastline, breathtaking forests and mountains, and numerous hiking trails in renowned places such as Acadia National Park. June is a great month to visit Acadia National Park as it offers warm weather without the mid-summer crowds.

Apart from the natural beauty, Maine also has many historical lighthouses that are worth seeing along the coast and on some of the islands. These lighthouses can be a perfect way to relax after a day of hiking.

May is an excellent time to visit Maine because it is less crowded than the peak summer season, and the weather is more moderate. May is also a great time to explore Acadia National Park as the popular spots like Beehive Trail and Jordan Pond are less crowded compared to the busy summer months.

During May, the daytime temperatures in Maine hover around 60 Fahrenheit, making it ideal for hiking. Furthermore, the lighthouses in Maine are beginning to adjust their hours for summer, making them more accessible and easier to visit.

Some of the lighthouses allow visitors to look inside and climb to the top of the light tower, while others even let you rent the keeper’s house for an overnight stay, such as the Burnt Coat Harbor Light.

Overall, May is an excellent month to appreciate the beauty of Maine and all it has to offer.

Savannah

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah, Georgia, May is a great month to go. The weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists than during the summer months, except for Memorial Day weekend, which can get busy, so it’s essential to book accommodation in advance.

May is a bustling time in Savannah, with many exciting events happening, such as Savannah Comic Con, the Savannah Scottish Games, and the Doggie Carnival in Forsyth Park. You can also check out the Sand Arts Festival on nearby Tybee Island or attend live performances at various Savannah Farmers Markets.

Savannah is a lovely coastal city known for its stunning views, impressive architecture, natural landscapes, haunted sites, and rich history. In May, the city blooms with beautiful flowers, adding to its charm.

While in Savannah, be sure to visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, which dates back to 1878 and boasts incredible architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through picturesque Forsyth Park and snap some photos by the Forsyth Park Fountain before touring the Mercer Williams House, one of the best museums in Savannah, renowned for its stained glass dome.

Overall, May is an excellent time to visit Savannah, Georgia, to experience its beauty, history, and vibrant culture.

Zion National Park, UT

Zion National Park is a beautiful US National Park that’s extremely popular with visitors. If you’re planning to visit in May, you’re in luck! May is one of the best times to visit, with perfect weather and fewer crowds.

May is an excellent time for hiking, with most of the trails open and ideal conditions. You can enjoy stunning scenery, including the Observation Point Trail and Angels Landing, which is one of the most spectacular hikes in the US.

May is also a great time to visit because precipitation is extremely low, with an average of only 0.7 inches of rainfall over the entire month. The weather is warm and sunny, with an average high of 83°F and an average low of 52°F, making it a great time to avoid monsoon season.

If you’re looking for ways to cool off, there are plenty of hikes that run alongside rivers and creeks, like the Riverside Walk or the Taylor Creek hike. You can also visit the waterfalls at Emerald Pools and walk behind the waterfall through the mist. Tubing along the Virgin River is another excellent way to cool down on a hot day.

Overall, Zion National Park is a must-visit destination, and May is the perfect month to enjoy all it has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just love stunning scenery, you’ll find plenty of amazing experiences at Zion National Park.

San Diego

May is the perfect time to visit San Diego, with average temperatures ranging from 60-69°F making it a great time to explore the city without worrying about extreme heat. What’s even better is that the number of tourists is generally lower than during the summer months, making it easier to navigate your way around the city.

If you’re visiting during the first week of May, be sure to check out the Fiesta Old Town Cinco De Mayo festival. This celebration in San Diego’s historic Old Town is a lively event with plenty of delicious Mexican food, live music, and fun games for everyone to enjoy.

Alternatively, head to the Del Mar Fairgrounds during the first weekend of May for the Foodieland Night Market, which features over 170 different vendors offering tasty food and drinks.

If you want to experience some outdoor adventure, consider going surfing in Encinitas in north county. With the warm weather, stunning views, and easy surf, it’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local surf culture.

If you have more time, consider planning a day trip to nearby Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico in Baja for wine tasting or up California’s central coast for even more adventure.

Overall, San Diego is a great destination to visit during May.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is an incredible destination located in the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State. It’s an amazingly diverse park that offers visitors the chance to explore lush rainforests, towering mountains, and rugged beaches.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures, Olympic National Park is the perfect place to visit. You can try paddleboarding on Lake Crescent or explore dozens of hiking trails. One of the most family-friendly hikes in the park is the Hall of Mosses, which takes you through the Hoh Rainforest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. There you’ll see ancient trees, dripping with moss and soaring over 300 feet overhead.

If you’re looking for a different kind of adventure, check out one of Olympic’s dramatic beaches, like Ruby or Rialto Beach. For a real treat, try to catch the sunset!

Thanks to its proximity to the coastline, Olympic enjoys moderate temperatures all year round, and May is the perfect time to visit. Unlike the two other national parks in Washington, which remain snowy into July, Olympic is much more pleasant and accessible in May.

In fact, come May, some of the best backpacking trails in the country become accessible for the first time in the year. The Enchanted Valley Trail is a must-try, where you’ll hike through the lush Quinault Rainforest to the Enchanted Valley Chalet, a rustic cabin surrounded by dense pine trees, rushing waterfalls, and towering mountains.

May is also the perfect time to see the park’s first colorful wildflowers, like lupine and balsamroot, which make the stunning scenery look even more jaw-dropping.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach, located on the Oregon coast, is a wonderful place to visit in May. This small beach town is famous for its beauty and is a great destination for a relaxing getaway.

Take your time to explore the town’s downtown area with its lovely shops, restaurants, and galleries. For those who are looking for some adventure, Ecola State Park offers breathtaking views and fantastic surfing spots at Indian Beach.

May is also the ideal time to visit the iconic Haystack Rock, which rises 235 feet from the shoreline. During low tide, you can walk out to the rock and explore the gorgeous tide pools. You might even spot the colorful Tufted Puffin during the breeding season.

Cannon Beach is also a great place for whale watching as you gaze out at the beautiful Pacific Ocean. So, whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Cannon Beach has something for everyone.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is an amazing destination that you shouldn’t miss during a Utah road trip. With so many things to do, one of the top attractions is hiking along the park’s incredible trails.

There are plenty of options available for all levels of hikers. If you’re looking for a more relaxed hike, the Windows Trail is perfect for you. It’s a one-mile loop that takes you to see three incredible rock arches that are simply breathtaking.

If you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Devil’s Garden trail is an eight-mile loop. This trail can be quite demanding in some sections, so it’s not recommended for families with young children. However, if you’re up for it, you’ll get to see eight incredible arches on this hike!

May is an ideal time to visit Arches National Park because the weather is not too hot yet, with highs usually in the 70s and lows in the 50s. This makes it perfect for hiking during the day and camping or stargazing at night. Additionally, May is one of the best months of the year to see the desert wildflowers in bloom!

If you’re planning a trip to Arches National Park in May, make sure to check out the Moab Arts Festival, which is just a short 15-minute drive away from the park.

New Orleans

May is a fantastic time to plan a trip to New Orleans. The chaos of Mardi Gras has subsided, so the crowds have thinned out, making it easier to explore the city. Moreover, the weather is still mild, so it’s a perfect time to explore before the summer heat and humidity set in.

While in town, make sure to check out the vibrant French Quarter. Take a stroll and admire the charming architecture of brightly colored buildings with iron balconies. You might even spot some lingering Mardi Gras beads!

Royal Street in the French Quarter is particularly famous for its beautiful architecture, so don’t miss out.

Other must-see outdoor sites include the Garden District and one of the city’s cemeteries. The Garden District is known for its stunning homes and picturesque streets lined with trees. In May, the flowers are blooming, making the area even more stunning.

Cemeteries are also a unique part of the city’s history. Since parts of New Orleans are below sea level and prone to flooding, the graves must be above ground. The large tombs and pathways that fill the cemeteries are a sight to behold.

Enjoy your trip to the Big Easy!

San Antonio

May is an ideal time to plan a visit to San Antonio, with lovely weather, low hotel rates, and fewer crowds.

Even if you have just one day to spend in San Antonio, you can still see and do a lot. The Riverwalk is the city’s most popular tourist attraction, where you can take a picturesque 45-minute stroll along the downtown loop, and indulge in some delicious Tex-Mex food at the many restaurants located here.

Don’t miss out on visiting the Alamo, which is known for its role in the Texas Revolution and is recognized globally.

In addition, San Antonio is home to “Military City USA,” and in May, you can join the Armed Forces Parade along the river, which features patriotic music and beautifully decorated floats to pay tribute to the men and women in service.

Other exciting May events include the Tejano Conjunto Festival, showcasing Texan culture and music, Rockfest, and Springfest, the largest carnival in North America, which is perfect for the whole family to enjoy!

Naples & Marco Island

If you’re looking for a getaway in May, consider the Paradise Coast of Naples and Marco Island, Florida! These two sister cities make for the ultimate fun-in-the-sun destination, especially in May when the crowds have thinned out and the weather is still perfect.

The low humidity and moderate temperatures make for ideal beach weather, and Naples and Marco Island have some of the best beaches in Florida. But what really makes this area special is its proximity to nature.

Located at the gateway to the 10,000 Islands, Florida Everglades, and Florida Bay, adventure and beach lovers alike will find plenty to do. You can also explore downtown Naples and the Esplanade on Marco Island, which offer great shopping and dining options.

There are also unique shops and foodie parks scattered throughout the area, with nightlife ranging from tiki bars to upscale jazz clubs.

May is also a great time for outdoor art and music festivals, with Artis Naples as the community’s biggest performing arts center. Visitors can enjoy free concerts, stage performances, and art activities for kids and families.

Park City

Park City, Utah is best known as a ski town and even hosted the Winter Olympics once. However, Park City is not just a winter destination. Spring and summer in Park City, Utah are amazing too, and definitely worth a trip!

The weather in May is usually in the comfortable 60s Fahrenheit, which is perfect for outdoor activities. May is also the peak fly fishing season in Park City. The snow has melted, the rivers are flowing, and it’s the perfect time to try fly fishing. You can take lessons or go on guided tours, even if you’re a beginner.

In May, restaurants that closed for winter reopen for the season, and Park City has a great foodie scene. May is also a quieter month for tourism, so you can enjoy the city’s cuisine and activities without the crowds.

Finally, as the snow melts, ski trails transform into beautiful mountain biking trails. It’s the perfect time to explore the mountains on a bike and enjoy the gorgeous scenery.

New York

May is a fantastic time to visit New York City, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Head to Central Park and take a leisurely stroll along the Mall and Liberty Walk to admire the beautiful spring scenery. You can also rent a bike to explore the park or rent a boat near the Loeb Boathouse.

For breathtaking views of the city, head to Rockefeller Center or the Empire State Building. Insider tip: Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long waiting lines.

The comfortable weather in May is also perfect for a relaxing ferry ride to Liberty Island to see the iconic Statue of Liberty. Don’t forget to visit Ellis Island, which used to be the busiest immigrant processing station in the U.S. and is included with your visit to the Statue of Liberty.

Holland, MI for the Tulip Festival

In Holland, located near the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, “lake life” vacation vibes meet proud Dutch ancestry.

In this charming small town in West Michigan, you can sail past Big Red, the most-photographed of Michigan’s 129 lighthouses, to the second-largest of the Great Lakes.

Or tour a working 18th century mill from the Netherlands at the 36-acre Windmill Island Gardens, featuring 100,000 colorful blooming tulips this month.

Ready to dive deeper into Holland’s Dutch heritage? Learn to Klompen dance at Nelis’ Dutch Village.

In downtown Holland, you’ll find more than 100 unique local businesses, from gastropubs and winery tasting rooms to gourmet food boutiques, Dutch and Scandinavian gift stores, and so much more.

Of course, the optimal time to see Holland’s Dutch roots is in May.

This Dutch-settled city planted 100,000 tulip bulbs back in 1929 and has celebrated the annual spring bloom ever since.

For eight days in early to mid-May, the annual Tulip Time Festival celebrates Holland’s heritage with lively Dutch dance performances, traditional costumes, multiple parades, and the blooming of millions of tulips.

You’ll see flower beds filled with blossoming tulips along city streets, in city parks, and at local attractions.

Veldheer Tulip Gardens plants 5 million tulips in addition to daffodil, crocus, and hyacinth flowers for the beautiful and “Insta-worthy” May bloom.

Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores, Alabama is home to the best beaches in the lower 48 of the United States. And that’s just the beginning of

For birding, hiking, and views of the Gulf of Mexico, head to the Jeff Friend Trail.

With fresh oysters and farm-to-table restaurants on offer, you’ll find the foodie scene in Gulf Shores is on epoint.

From relaxation to an on-the-go vacation experience, Gulf Shores has it all. Kayakers and cyclists will find plenty of opportunities to get out in nature.

And in May, weather is a comfortable 76 degrees. Don’t miss the award-winning Gulf Hot Air Balloon Festival, the first weekend in May.

The Hangout Music Festival in late May features lives music on the beach. If you add a day or two to enjoy Gulf Shores’ charms on either end of the festival, you may end up making it an annual event.

Asheville

But because Asheville is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains range, it’s also surrounded by an incredible assortment of natural attractions.

Asheville is a rapidly growing Blue Ridge Mountain town that offers an exceptional array of things to do. An Asheville weekend getaway is ideal as is a longer visit.

It’s home to outstanding art deco architecture, numerous nationally acclaimed restaurants and breweries, the cultural hub of the River Arts District, and of course the world-renowned Biltmore Estate, which is the largest privately owned home in America.

These include some of the biggest mountains in the eastern US (such as 6,684-foot Mt Mitchell, the tallest east of the Mississippi River), hundreds of hiking trails, dazzling waterfalls, and the jaw-dropping scenic overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

May is an incredible time to explore the Asheville area, as winter’s chill gives way to warmer temperatures, budding wildflowers (such as mountain laurel and rhododendron), and much smaller crowds than you’ll see in summer.

The Botanical Gardens at Asheville, NC Arboretum, and the Biltmore Estate Gardens are all great places to see the native North Carolina flora at its finest.

With an average of 3.5 inches of rain, May is also a wonderful time for exploring the wondrous waterfalls near Asheville NC, including those in DuPont State Recreational Forest, along the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway, and right off the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Newport

Often referred to as The City By The Sea, Newport is packed with history, stunning coastal views, amazing shopping and tons of New England charm.

One of the top things to do here is tour the Gilded Age Mansions, many of which were owned by the Vanderbilt family, and exude the opulence of their time, and offer incredible views of the ocean.

For even more coastal views in Newport, you’ll want to be sure to add the Cliff Walk and Ocean Drive to your itinerary. And, of course, you can’t miss strolling down Bowen’s Wharf and Thames Street for some of the best shopping in the region!

May is one of the best times to visit Newport, as the weather is beautiful, the summer crowds have yet to set in, and there are tons of events and festivals to celebrate spring.

The Newport Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival is a fun festival that happens in May each year bringing together the area’s most popular food trucks and craft brewers from all over the country for a special two day event.

Later in the month, Newport celebrates the Oyster & Chowder Festival, which is completely free for all to attend.

During the festival at Bowen’s Wharf, you can sample local, fresh oysters and the best homemade chowders, all while enjoying the water views and live music.

Clearwater

Located just west of Tampa, Clearwater is an ideal destination for a springtime getaway that caters to all ages.

With warm, yet not overly humid weather in May, you can fully enjoy the beautiful beaches that Clearwater has to offer, such as Clearwater Beach, Honeymoon Island State Park, and Caladesi Island State Park.

Whether you seek rest and relaxation, kayaking, or jet skiing, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to visit Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach, a true gem of Clearwater that boasts a 1,080-foot fishing pier and one of the Gulf Coast’s largest beach playgrounds. It’s a paradise for all ages.

All the fishing essentials you need and food and drink options are available at the bait house on the pier. Crafts and entertainment also come alive each night at sunset.

If you prefer indoor activities, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is one of the top things to do in Clearwater with kids. It is not like most aquarium experiences, as it is a rescue facility with a vast array of sea life and an animal hospital.

Madison

Madison is a city that comes alive in May with an abundance of festivals and activities, making it an ideal time to visit.

Wine lovers should not miss the ‘Uncork Me Wisconsin’ wine festival held in May, where they can sample some of the best wines in the state.

Foodies will enjoy the World’s Largest Brat Fest, which takes place over Memorial Day weekend, offering a variety of local specialties like brats and cheese curds, along with music and entertainment.

As the capital of Wisconsin, Madison boasts a stunning Capitol building that visitors should not miss. Don’t forget to climb to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city from above.

A visit to Olbrich Gardens is highly recommended when in Madison. While there is an admission fee for the conservatory, visitors can explore the outdoor gardens for free. The gardens boast a stunning Thai pavilion that has been reconstructed in Madison and adorned with gold leaf.

For art lovers, a visit to the Chazen Museum of Art is a must. The museum’s collection features a diverse range of art, including works by renowned artists such as Picasso and Warhol.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge, located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, is a popular mountain town that offers much more than just ski resorts. While Aspen is known for its 2,908 skiable acres and 187 skiiable trails in winter, Breckenridge offers spectacular views of Ten Mile Range, which provides plentiful opportunities for hiking and cycling in the spring.

As the snow melts and the weather warms up in May, Breckenridge becomes a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing in the rivers and streams, white water rafting, and golfing. This is also the time when the wildflowers bloom, making it the perfect time to take in the natural beauty of the area.

In addition to outdoor activities, Breckenridge has a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore and enjoy.

One Ski Hill Place, A RockResort is among the top-rated accommodations in Breckenridge, Colorado. This opulent hotel offers exclusive ski-in/ski-out access and boasts an array of amenities, including a full-service spa, fitness center, and indoor/outdoor pool, all at a reasonable cost.

May is an ideal time to visit Breckenridge and recharge your batteries, as the town offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation amidst breathtaking mountain vistas.

Burlington

Burlington, Vermont, may be the largest city in a rural state, but it has the charm of a small town along with plenty of things to see and do. This hip, outdoorsy, and progressive city welcomes everyone and has a range of activities to offer, from strolling down Church Street to sailing on Lake Champlain. May is a particularly enchanting month to visit Burlington.

Due to its location in Northern New England, spring arrives late in Vermont, which means May is the peak of the season when the landscape bursts with vibrant greens and blooming flowers.

It’s the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the many craft breweries in the area, preferably outside if the weather permits.

May is also the time when locals and tourists start exploring Lake Champlain. You can take a scenic cruise on The Spirit of Ethan Allen and enjoy breathtaking views of Vermont’s Green Mountains and New York’s Adirondacks to the west.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley experiences a rejuvenation in May as the valley floor awakens from a prolonged period of cold and snow that has enveloped the National Park. It is considered one of the finest national parks in the western region and serves as a wonderful retreat from San Francisco.

The weather during May is ideal for exploring the park, with only a few rainy days and high temperatures hovering in the mid-70s. This pleasant climate signifies that the park’s waterfalls, such as the magnificent Yosemite Falls, will be at their peak flow, and the bears will have emerged from their winter hibernation.

An added advantage of visiting Yosemite in May is that travelers from San Francisco will have the benefit of clear roads and brief wait times at the park entrance.

For hikers, May presents an excellent opportunity to explore the lower elevation trails and visit popular sites like Mirror Lake and Vernal Falls, as the trails will be clear and easily accessible.

At higher elevations, there will be ample late-season snow for snowshoeing, and you can take a memorable trip up to Glacier Point for a spectacular view of the park.

Renting a bicycle and cycling to Mariposa Grove is another exciting adventure in Yosemite during May, where you can immerse yourself in the majestic Giant Sequoias.

Additionally, you can take advantage of the peaceful atmosphere before the bustling season to unwind and appreciate the stunning granite monoliths that make the park renowned. Fall is another excellent time to visit Yosemite and avoid the crowds.

Denver

Denver is an ideal destination to visit in May as the city revels in the nearly summery weather and the conclusion of the winter season.

Travelers can indulge in craft beers while relishing the city’s lively nightlife, making Denver a superior choice over Boulder for a Colorado city break.

For an economical activity, take a leisurely stroll through the River North Arts District, recognized for its street art, and bask in the sunshine.

While exploring the region, grab a coffee from Crema, a RiNo cafe adorned with artwork and furnished with unique decor, or participate in a yoga class at BIG Power Yoga.

Ensure that your May travel plans include a trip to Red Rocks Amphitheater, a nearby location sculpted from red sandstone that boasts a stunning view of Denver.

The weather will be pleasant, not excessively hot, making it an ideal setting for an open-air afternoon concert.

In case you cannot fit a show into your schedule or budget, there are often affordable or no-cost activities happening at Red Rocks, such as Yoga on the Rocks or Film on the Rocks.

Try to carve out some time for a short hike in the surrounding park to observe the sandstone in its unspoiled state.

Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park

With a land area of over 30,000 acres, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (BCGNP) is one of the smallest national parks in the U.S. and also one of the least visited.

While Rocky Mountain National Park, located nearby, welcomes more than 4.4 million visitors annually, BCGNP only receives just over 308,000 visitors.

BCGNP is home to one of North America’s narrowest, steepest, darkest, and deepest canyons, with a width of only 40 feet at its narrowest point.

To make the most of your visit, drive along North Rim Drive Road, stopping at scenic overlooks such as The Narrows, Island Peaks View, and Kneeling Camel View.

To make the most of your visit to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, consider hiking to Exclamation Point (a three-mile hike) or Deadhorse Trail (a five-mile hike).

While on the South Rim Route, be sure to stop at Painted Wall, which stands at an impressive 2,250 feet, making it the highest cliff in Colorado. Additionally, stargazing is a must-do activity in the park, as it is designated as an International Dark Sky Park for optimal viewing.

May is an ideal time to visit the park, as the North Rim is only open from late April to October due to its high elevation and harsh climate. The North Rim offers the most exciting trails, and the roads are entirely passable in May with no snow.

Another benefit of visiting in May is the opportunity to enjoy sunny days with cloudless skies for spectacular views of the canyon, as some areas of the canyon receive only 33 minutes of sunlight per day. The average temperature in May is 66.4 °F, making it an excellent time for hiking, rafting, and fishing.

If you want to avoid the crowds at Rocky Mountain National Park, consider visiting Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park for an excellent alternative.

Charleston

Charleston, SC offers a variety of exciting activities to visitors, from immersing in its rich history to exploring beautiful plantations and experiencing its vibrant food scene.

May is a great time to visit Charleston’s Historic District, as the weather is mild, making it perfect for walking. Visitors can enjoy big festivals and farmers’ markets, surrounded by spring blooms and fresh harvests.

The beach is also a popular destination in May, with activities such as surfing, dolphin watching, and morning yoga.

There are several major events in May, including the Charleston Greek Festival, North Charleston Arts Fest, Charleston Battery soccer games, and Spoleto Festival USA, providing ample opportunities for entertainment and cultural immersion.

Don’t miss the chance to explore Rainbow Row, the Pineapple Fountain, and The Battery when you’re in Charleston. If you love the water, you’ll want to check out Myrtle Beach, Folly Beach, and Hilton Head, which are all nearby.

Be sure to visit the beautiful gardens at Boone Plantation, as well as Drayton House and Magnolia Plantation.

Keep in mind that hotel prices in Charleston can be steep year-round, especially in May, so it’s best to book well in advance. Staying in the Historic District will put you close to many of the main attractions.

Shenandoah National Park

Located just 50 miles from Washington, DC, Shenandoah National Park in Virginia offers a tranquil retreat from city life. With more than 200,000 acres of cascading waterfalls, lush deciduous forests, hiking trails, and a plethora of east coast wildlife, including deer, bobcats, and black bears, it’s a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in May.

Although Shenandoah is beautiful throughout the year, May is one of the best times to go. The climate is mild and pleasant, with temperatures warmer than winter but not as humid or hot as mid-summer. Additionally, there are fewer crowds than in early spring or fall when the leaves change color.

Shenandoah National Park offers stunning views not only in the fall but also during the spring when the mountain laurel and rhododendrons are in full bloom. The park celebrates its Wildflower Weekend in mid-May, offering special hikes and talks led by rangers. May is also the peak month for birdwatching, as many migratory birds make an appearance in the park during this time of year. For those seeking a peaceful city escape without the crowds, Shenandoah National Park is a perfect destination in May.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a must-visit destination in May, situated in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. With comfortable temperatures and nature in full bloom, it’s the perfect time to explore the great outdoors and immerse yourself in the town’s southern hospitality.

There’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in Gatlinburg, from hiking to ziplining and everything in between. And in May, visitors can take part in the annual Wilderness Wildlife Week, where they can join guided hikes and informative presentations. Don’t miss the Gatlinburg Beans and Cornbread Festival, a delicious celebration of southern cuisine. Best of all, admission to these events is free!

If you’re looking for breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, be sure to visit Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in Tennessee. From its observation deck, you can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Nature enthusiasts won’t want to miss the picturesque Roaring Fork Motor Trail. This 5.5-mile one-way loop offers a variety of scenic spots, from 19th-century cabins to the beautiful Rainbow Falls. You can even stop by the souvenir shop for some homemade jam.

May is an especially great time to visit Gatlinburg, Tennessee, as the temperatures are mild and everything is in full bloom. In addition, Wilderness Wildlife Week is free for visitors and features guided hikes and informational presentations, as well as the Gatlinburg Beans and Cornbread Festival.