best mountain places to visit in may

21 Absolute Best National Parks to Visit in May You Can’t Miss

Posted on Published: February 14, 2023  - Last updated: January 3, 2024

Wildflowers and sunshine make their appearance after a long spring at many US national parks. Grab your layers, hiking gear and get ready for scenic drives and epic views. With fewer crowds and spectacular weather these, are the very best national parks to visit in May!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

May is a fabulous time for a vacation to a national park. It’s just before the busy summer season so you avoid super long lines, and offers a slight reprieve from the excessive heat that invades most national parks during the summer.

In most locations, the dreary springtime rain has receded, making way for sunshine and national park bliss. If you’re looking for the best national parks to visit in May, here’s your list!

From coast to coast and even some locations outside the continental US, these amazing national parks welcome you during May.

Must-see video: best national parks to visit in May

Map of the best national parks to visit in May

If you’re a visual person, use this map to help you plan your trip. Pinch and zoom in to see the regions you may want to explore. 🙂

By the way, I haven’t been everywhere (yet), so I’ve called in some help with this guide from some of my fellow travel writers. Enjoy 🙂

Best national parks to visit in May

Starting this list off with a bang!💥 The landscapes across the US are incredibly diverse, meaning it can be hard to choose out of the best national parks in the USA. Let’s start with a few of my favorites. 🙂

1. Arches National Park, Utah

Average temp:  high 79, low 49

One of the best national parks to visit in May is Arches National Park, located in eastern Utah. The weather is fabulous this time of year and the crowds are much lighter than in the peak of summer.

Seeing Delicate Arch is a highlight for most visitors to the park, and it’s also one of the best hikes in Arches National Park. At 3 miles round trip and rated as moderate, this hike isn’t for every skill level, as it climbs in elevation nearly the entire time.

Wear grippy hiking shoes to hike to Delicate Arch to most easily get around as the slick rock is tricky with steep cliffs, especially at the arch. Watch young kids closely during this hike!

Other must-do’s within Arches National Park are the scenic drive , which will take 1-2 hours, depending on how many stops you take. The Windows area of the park is nice for families or those hoping to see a lot without hiking.

Several large arches are located at The Windows , and you can eve climb through them, which is fun for kids and adults alike.

Note that April through October you’ll need to have a reservation for a timed entry into the park. Alternatively, you can enter the park prior to 7am or after 4pm without a reservation.

Arches is an awesome starting point for an Utah national parks road trip . Enjoy all 5 amazing and unique parks in Utah. May is a great time for such an adventure!

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Average temp:  high 57, low 29

Planning a trip to Grand Teton National Park in May is a terrific time to go to enjoy the park with fewer crowds than summer and fall. Most of the roads open May 1, and all are open by mid-May, conditions and weather permitting.

The 42-mile full scenic drive loop road takes you to all the best points of interest around the park. Planning a full day for this drive provides time to enjoy the views and capture pictures at each stop!  

The Grand Teton weather in May is still very cold with highs around 60 and lows around 30 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to dress in layers and pack winter clothing because it can still rain and even snow in May!

Grand Teton is one of the best national parks to visit in spring because it’s a terrific time to see wildlife. Be aware of the area closures due to bear activity and other wildlife management, and follow instructions on any posted signs.

Please be a responsible wildlife observer by maintaining a safe distance of at least 100 yards from wolves and bears, and 25 yards from all other wildlife.

The lower elevation hiking trails may be muddy, and the higher elevation trails, like Inspiration Point Grand Teton , will still be covered with snow. May is an active time for bears and cubs. It’s recommended to hike with at least 3 people, make noise, and carry bear spray !

Reservations are required for camping at Grand Teton National Park. The Gros Ventre Campground is open May 1, with the others opening mid to late May. There are hotels, vacation rentals and RV Parks in the Jackson Hole, Wyoming area.

Recommended by Jamie of Photo Jeepers

3. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado (a favorite on this list of best national parks to visit in May)

Average temp:  high 51, low 30

When you are planning things to do in Denver , be sure to add Rocky Mountain National Park to your travel bucket list.

May is the perfect time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. The temperature is just starting to get warm and pleasant during this time of year. The weather in May makes outdoor activities like hiking, biking and camping even more enjoyable as the days are sunnier and much less windy.

One of the best easy hikes is the Alberta Falls Trail, which takes you through the forest, aspen trees and onto Alberta Falls. Here you can take a breath and enjoy a snack or light lunch.

Continue the trail past Alberta Falls and you have many choices of lakes to visit: Dream Lake, Emerald Lake or Mills Lake. All of these lakes provide stunning mountain views and clear waters!

The wildflowers are also in bloom during this time of year, adding extra beauty to all the incredible mountain views that await visitors. You can see these wildflowers at the end of Ouzel Falls. It’s truly one of the best national parks to visit in May!

If you’re planning to stay near Rocky Mountain National Park, you can stay in Estes Park, which is the nearest town. Book the Blue Door Inn for a budget stay or check out Hotel Estes for mid-range accommodation. In Estes Park, you can also find plenty of great restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

No matter what your plans are for Colorado, visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in May is a must-do for anyone looking to experience some of the best scenery Colorado has to offer!

Recommended by Pafoua of Her Wanderful World

4. Kings Canyon National Park, California

Average temp:  high 53, low 20

If you’re looking for the best national parks to visit in May, look no further than Kings Canyon in California. One of the most underrated national parks, it’s often overshadowed by it’s sister park, Sequoia National Park.

It’s one of the most unique national parks because it has such a variety of scenery. Massive Sequoia trees are prevalent throughout parts of the park. Yet it also holds the deepest canyon in North America, with amazing views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

By visiting Kings Canyon National Park in May, you can expect nice weather during the day and cool temperatures at night, often even freezing. Pack layers for hiking and sightseeing, as you’ll need them!

Some of the best things to do in Kings Canyon National Park are seeing the tallest Sequoia tree – Grant Tree . Crazy that it’s in this park instead of Sequoia! You can actually compare the two parks for benefits of each: Sequoia vs Kings Canyon .

You’ll also want to take the Kings Canyon Scenic Drive through the canyon for incredible views! When you get to Roads End, check out the Muir Rock, Zumwalt Meadow and if you have time, hike the 7.8 miles round trip to Mist Falls.

Kings Canyon National Park is located just an hour from Fresno, where there are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals, especially in May before peak tourism season begins.

5. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Average temp:  high 71, low 51

Easily one of the best national parks in the USA to visit in May, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a gorgeous natural oasis that sits in between the cities of Akron and Cleveland in Ohio. 

It also is nestled along the Cuyahoga River and is known for the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath. 

However, other fun things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park include a trip to Ledges Overlook, a visit to Brandywine Falls, a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and a stop at the Canal Exploration Center. 

After all, this fun little museum does an amazing job of recounting the fascinating history of the Erie Canal from the 19th century.

And while this park is amazing at any time of year, May is an exceptionally good time to visit. Not only will the area’s waterfalls be at their most majestic, due to runoff from snow, but the park becomes inundated with stunning wildflowers. 

Just be sure to pack a rain jacket since the area receives around 9 days of rain throughout the month. Although, daily highs are generally a pleasant 71 F while lows dip down to around 51 F. 

And for an ultimate weekend of solitude, book a room at the Inn At Brandywine Falls. After all, this historic bed and breakfast sits inside the park, dates back to 1848 and features rustic rooms that include complimentary breakfast.

Recommended by Linda of Midwest Explored

6. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska (a must-see and one of the best national parks in USA)

Average temp:  high 59, low 43

When visiting Glacier Bay National Park in May, you’ll experience the exit of winter and the awakening of spring. May brings the least amount of rainfall, and you’ll enjoy the mountains still frosted with snow.

Encompassing 3,000,000 acres, visitors can only access the UNESCO world heritage site by plane or boat. Most who visit do so on an Alaska  cruise from Vancouver or Seattle . Icefields cover 25% of its land mass in the park, which cruise passengers come to see.

Only 2 large cruise ships can enter the park daily, and a park ranger accompanies the voyage. During the 9-hour sail, you could see humpback whales, bald eagles and harbor seals that bask on giant icebergs.

Be prepared to spend hours on deck (or on your balcony) admiring the pristine landscape. You’ll reach the glaciers at the end of the bay. The ship may pull up to several glaciers, depending on your captain’s preference.

These include John Hopkins, Grand Pacific, Lamplugh and Margerie Glaciers. John Hopkins provides a vital breeding ground for harbor seals. As a result, vessels can only access the mouth of the bay.

Of the tidewater glaciers, Margerie is the most photogenic. With constant calving action (ice breaking off the glacier’s toe), its ice glistens in beautiful shades of blue and aqua.

If you’re planning to visit by plane, flights leave from Juneau and land in Gustavus. Here, you can stay at Glacier Bay Lodge, the only accommodation inside the park.

Glacier Bay is a bucket-list destination, and one of the best places to visit in US in May.

Recommended by Karen at Forever Karen

7. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Average temp:  high 62, low 37

After a long, cold winter, Michigan’s rugged Upper Peninsula has unthawed, and its majestic beauty can be seen coming to life. There is no better place to see this than the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

For 42 miles, this protected parkland stretches along the shimmering emerald and turquoise Lake Superior. It draws visitors from far and wide to enjoy its iconic kaleidoscope cliffs, secluded beaches, powerful waterfalls, and hiking trails.

To experience the area’s beauty, you must check out one of the many  hiking trails in Pictured Rocks.

One of the best hikes is the 10-mile Chapel Loop trail, which snakes along dramatic cliffs, past waterfalls, and even a beautiful secluded beach that looks like it’s been plucked from the Caribbean. May is a great time to visit because the crowds will be smaller, and spring brings a bounty of beautiful wildflowers.

Although winter is long gone by May, you should still pack layers and expect temperatures to average in the 60s during the day and 40s at night.

Since the area is large, it can be difficult to decide where to stay. To base yourself near many popular sights, it’s best to stay in the quaint town of Munising. Some great hotel options include The Beach Inn Motel and Roam Inn.

You’ll find rentals outside of town but be warned that although it might not look far on the map, there are many dirt roads that will force you to drive much slower than you’d expect.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is by far one of the best national parks to visit in May!

Recommended by Rebecca of Veggies Abroad

Best national parks in USA to see in May

Can you believe this list?! The fun part is, it keeps getting better! Let’s keep going with these amazing national parks!

8. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado (one of the lesser-known of the best US national parks)

Average temp:  high 67, low 39

While  Mesa Verde National Park  might be an afterthought for some travelers, it was actually the sixth-ever designated US national park. 

This is because the preservation of this important historic site was a necessity since local settlers were robbing the cliff houses of important artifacts and selling them off to the highest bidder. The creation of the park made protecting the Ancestral Puebloans’ history a national priority.

Mesa Verde weather is pleasant year-round, due to its elevation and temperatures that remain slightly lower than nearby areas of Colorado and the four corners. You can expect highs in the mid-sixties, especially as the park’s higher sites. 

Mesa Verde is one of the best national parks to visit in May, as the park fills up during the summer months.  

This is, in part, due to its popularity with families since this is one of the few places in the US that is simultaneously a national park, an important historic site, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

It’s also conveniently located near other important NPS sites like Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, as well as the Navajo sites of Monument Valley and the Four Corners. The park is accessible for road trips from nearby Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma.

The hiking here is also better in May, as the cooler temperatures keep you from overheating in the middle of this high desert.

Things to do in May in Mesa Verde National Park include touring a cliff dwelling, going on one or two of the park’s hikes, and driving the Mesa Top Loop.

Stay in nearby Durango, Colorado. This fun mountain town boasts great street art, craft beer and a charming downtown. Check into the Strater Hotel for a luxurious time or choose one of the town’s kitschy motels.

Recommended by Stephanie of History Fangirl

9. Shenandoah National Park

Average temp:  high 64, low 45

Shenandoah National Park is a natural beauty in May thanks to gorgeous mountain vistas, bucolic landscapes and rolling green hills. As temperatures rise and wildflowers begin to bloom, wild azaleas, pink lady’s slippers and buttercups line the hiking trails.

Enjoy a scenic drive along the park’s famed 105-mile Skyline Drive that meanders north to south across the length of the park. More than 75 overlooks and pull-offs urge visitors to stop and take in the far-reaching views. Range View Overlook (milepost 17.1) and Spitler Knob Overlook (milepost 48) are especially nice.

Across the park, there are hiking trails for all levels, including the fully-accessible Limberlost Trail and the  South River Falls Trail , which leads to one of the most popular waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park. More than 500 miles of hiking trails criss-cross this national park.

There are 2 park visitor centers on Skyline Drive, including Dickey Ridge Visitor Center and Harry S. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center. Kids will love completing activities in a Junior Ranger booklet to earn a badge and get sworn in as a brand-new Junior Ranger.

Make it a weekend with a stay inside the park in a rustic cabin or modern guest room at one of two park lodges: Skyland or Big Meadows Lodge. Both lodges have a restaurant, outdoor terraces and easy access to popular hiking trails, like the Dark Hollow Falls Trail.

There are also four family campgrounds that can accommodate tents and travel trailers. 

No visit to Shenandoah National Park is complete without ordering a slice of the park’s signature mile-high blackberry ice cream pie at either of the in-park restaurants. Delicious.

Shenandoah is one of the best national parks to visit in spring, and May is specifically great based on weather and waterfalls!

Recommended by Erin of Go Hike Virginia

10. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Average temp:  high 66, low 45

Badlands National Park has got to be one of the best national parks to visit in May! With beautiful daytime weather and limited crowds, you’ll love this adventure!

This is a park that’s easy to see in just one day, or you can spend 2-3 days hiking the park. Fun fact: Badlands National Park is actually an open hike park, meaning you don’t have to stick to a hiking trail.

See the main sights in the park by driving the scenic loop. It connects from Interstate 90 via South Dakota Highway 240, and will take at least an hour to complete. Be sure to stop at Panorama Point and Pinnacles Overlook for incredible views of the multi-colored rocky spires.

Other things to do in Badlands National Park include The Notch Trail, The Door Trail and The Window Trail. Wear layers of clothing and sturdy hiking shoes for this park, as the springtime sun will be warm but quickly turn chilly in the evenings.

11. Haleakala National Park, Hawaii

Average temp:  high 64, low 46

Haleakala National Park can be found on the island of Maui. Since it’s Hawaii, there’s never really a bad time to visit but visiting Haleakala National Park in May during Maui’s shoulder season will help you avoid peak tourist season.

Haleakala has 2 entrances, the Kipahulu District on East Maui and the Summit District atop Haleakala Crater. In the Kipahulu District, expect days to be warm and sunny with an occasional afternoon sprinkle.  

Here you can enjoy one of Maui’s best hikes, the Pipiwai Trail which takes you past distant waterfalls, through a dreamy bamboo forest and ultimately to the 400 foot Waimoku Falls.  

Seven Sacred Pools is also not to be missed which is less than a mile hike from the Kipahulu campground within the National Park. You must reserve a campsite  ahead of time.

The Summit District of Haleakala National sits at an elevation of 10,023 which is polar opposites compared to the Kipahulu District.

One of the most popular things to do on the summit is watch the sunrise above the clouds with the volcanic crater as your back drop. Book a stay at the  Kula Lodge  to avoid a long drive early in the morning if you plan on watching sunrise.  

Another popular way to explore the summit is by hiking the Sliding Sands Trail  which takes you down to the crater floor. Along the way you’ll pass by red, orange and purple cinder cones and the rare silversword plant which only grows on Haleakala, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea on the Big Island.  

Haleakala is one of the best national parks in USA, and May is a fabulous time to go!

Recommended by Jess of I’m Jess Traveling 

12. Redwoods National Park, California

Average temp:  high 61, low 40

Redwoods State and National Parks is one of the most unique parks in the U.S. National Park Service. Not only is it the only national park that is cooperatively managed by state and federal services, but it also just so happens to be home to the tallest living organism on the planet, the mighty redwoods!

The best way to explore the area is to go on any of the incredible hikes in the redwoods .

For example, in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, head out on the Fern Canyon Trail. Not only will you get to walk past groves of redwoods, soaring 300+ feet in the air, but you’ll also walk through a lush canyon, dripping with ferns.

The canyon looks so prehistoric that it was actually used as a filming location for Jurassic Park: A Lost World .

Another awesome option is the Karl Knapp Loop trail, where you’ll not only get to pass under the impressive canopy of the redwoods, but actually through them- this trail uniquely has 2 tunnels carved out of fallen trees that you can hike through!

May is the perfect time to enjoy the spectacular scenery in the redwoods. The skies are finally drying up from the soggy springtime, the temperatures are warming up, and you’ll miss the majority of the summer crowds. 

Redwood National Park and sister State Parks are spread across a fairly wide swath of northern California, spanning more than 50 miles along the coastline, so it’s a good idea to pick a homebase that’s fairly centrally located.

Consider staying in Trinidad, which is conveniently located between the Redwoods State and National Parks and other popular redwoods sites, like Humboldt Redwoods State Park and the Avenue of the Giants.

The Lost Whale Inn is the oceanfront bed and breakfast of your dreams, with oceanfront views, a private beach, and homemade breakfast whipped up by the sweet owners.

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

13. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota (an underrated spot on this list of best national parks to visit in May)

Average temp:  high 63, low 40

Voyageurs National Park, located in the northernmost part of Minnesota, is one of the best US national parks in May. While the temperatures can fluctuate with lows in the 40s and highs in the mid-60s, summer activities begin to open up and the park comes to life.

The lakes are typically thawed in early May from their winter freeze. You can get out to see the best of the park from the water by either bringing or renting your own craft, or hiring a local water taxi guide. 

Keep an eye out for bald eagles! There are many nests throughout and you might even see the newly hatched young poking their heads up over the edge, waiting for their next meal.

The busy season in Voyageurs typically spans from Memorial Day to Labor Day, when visitors travel north to spend some time on the lakes. Enjoy tent camping at one of the many lakeside campsites or docking a houseboat to enjoy a similar view.

Take a tour and stop to explore the Ellsworth Rock Gardens. You’ll take in beautiful landscapes and get to check out areas much deeper into the park by adding these stops to your Voyageurs itinerary .

If you’re looking to do any hiking, come prepared with appropriate clothing. Ticks are common in some areas, so wearing long pants, even treated with a repellant like permethrin , is a must. You’ll also want to have plenty of layers prepared for the wide temperature fluctuations.

If you don’t want to spend the night at one of the many waterfront campsites throughout the park, head over to International Falls. Stay at the Cantilever Hotel , a unique little boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace right in town.

Recommended by Samantha of PA on Pause

14. Zion National Park, Utah

Average temp:  high 77, low 45

Visiting Zion in May should be on every active vacationer’s bucket list. It’s one of the best times to visit Zion because the temperatures are perfect for camping, hiking and sight seeing. Yet the busy summer season hasn’t officially kicked off yet, meaning there will be fewer crowds during May.

With highs in the mid to upper 70’s, you can fill your days with hiking without overheating. You also don’t have to worry about slipping on ice or snow, unlike the winter in Zion. Bring grippy hiking shoes , trekking poles and a hiking backpack with the 10 essentials for your adventure in Zion.

The Narrows is one of the best hikes , although in the spring the water is really cold and can be moving quite quickly, making it dangerous. Ask park rangers the morning of your planned hike if it’s suitable based on water levels.

Of course, if you’re after the coveted Angels Landing, you’ll need a hiking permit .

If you’re looking for a shorter hike with phenomenal views, then the Canyon Overlook Trail in Zion is perfect! This 1.0 mile hike is easy for most skill levels, and a favorite for visiting Zion with kids , too.

For accommodations, there are plenty of places to stay in the town of Springdale, just outside the park. Try the budget-friendly Holiday Inn Express Springdale or the bougie Cable Mountain Lodge .

Zion is hands-down one of he best national parks to visit in May (or any time of year, for that matter 😉).

Best national parks to visit in May – continued

Just a few more fabulous parks to go. Do you have one in mind yet? Let’s continue with this epic list!

15. Yosemite National Park, California

Average temp:  high 73, low 44

When most people think about Yosemite, they picture massive waterfalls gushing down the massive granite monoliths that frame the valley. 

For visiting Yosemite in May, travelers will be in for a treat as the waterfalls will be flowing at their peak volume for the year. All the snow runoff from the upper elevations and peaks will be rushing down the mountain, to the delight of tourists visiting the park.

The month of May also signals the opening of all the major roads and access points to the park , which means you can easily take in the views from the top of Glacier Point.

Snow will have melted for the season, and the hiking trails in the park will be open for that adventurous hike up to Upper Yosemite Falls or on the Mist Trail.

May is a great time to visit the park as the tourist season will have yet to fully start, meaning that lines to get into the park with be shorter, and attractions will be less crowded.

This also means that accommodations inside the park and Yosemite’s surrounding towns are easier to reserve. 

You’ll still want to book farther in advance if you want to score a room at the Rush Creek Lodge . 

For those driving to the park from San Francisco, the roads are usually clear of snow by the start of May. 

This means that you’ll get to the park sooner, so you will have time to stop at Mariposa Grove to see the giant Sequoia trees.

Yosemite should be at the top of your list if you are looking for the best national parks to visit in May.

Recommended by Gabriel of Chef Travel Guide

16. Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Average temp:  high 91, low 59

One of the best National Parks to visit in May is Arizona’s Saguaro National Park .

Located in southern Arizona, just outside the city of Tucson, the park is known for its endless groves of saguaro cacti and rugged brown and tan mountains covered in desert vegetation. Saguaro National Park protects the most expansive collection of saguaro cactus groves in the world.

Split into 2 distinct sections separated by the city of Tucson, Saguaro is one of the most accessible parks in the US. From Tucson International Airport it’s about a 30-minute drive to each entrance.

With Tucson being right there, there are unlimited lodging options for your visit. There are no developed campgrounds in the park, but you can camp at Gilbert Ray Campground in nearby Tucson Mountain Park for similar views of this beautiful part of the world.

The average high in May gets up to about 92 degrees (33 C) with overnight lows around 63 (17 C). While this can still be quite hot out in the afternoon sun, it’s the desert so the air is dry. A 90-degree day in the desert is a lot more comfortable than an 80-degree day in Florida.

The cool mornings mean that morning hikes are delightful. Aim to be done with any major hikes before 2:00pm and you’ll barely notice the heat. From June to mid-September, daytime highs are well over 100 degrees and the heat starts to become dangerous.

May is really the last month you can pleasantly visit Saguaro until October.

A small and undeveloped park compared to others in the US, the best thing to do in Saguaro is to get out and hike the well-marked trails. Head to the top of Wasson Peak on the west side of the park for a beautiful view of southern Arizona.

Catching an epic desert sunset is another must-do while in the park. Saguaro is one of the best national parks to visit in spring, and one you won’t want to miss.

Recommended by Chris of Around the World with Me

17. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota (one of the best national parks to visit in spring)

Average temp:  high 69, low 40

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is beautiful any time of year. May is stunning, as spring is starting to burst in North Dakota.

Summertime can be brutally hot, and winter can be frigid. In May, the temperatures are above freezing, and the bison, wild horses and prairie dogs are active in the park , making Theodore Roosevelt one of the best national parks to visit in spring.

The South Unit of the park sits in the charming town of Medora, population near 120. As you enter Theodore Roosevelt National Park, you will quickly see that it takes little time to view any wildlife.

Wear a sturdy pair of hiking shoes , as the hiking trails are open. View the wide-open skies that hover over the national park as you hike.

The North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National park is 45 minutes north of Medora, offering more of the beautiful Badlands of North Dakota. The  town of Medora  offers family-friendly lodging at the AmericInn.

After a fun day exploring the park, you can grab a bite to eat at the Little Missouri Dining & Saloon. Learn about the cowboys of North Dakota at the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame & Museum in the town of Medora.

The museum does an excellent job showcasing the contributions that cowboys made to North Dakota’s culture, lifestyle, and legacy. The best part about a May visit to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is that the summer crowds have yet to arrive. 

Recommended by Sara of Travel with Sara

18. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Average temp:  high 53, low 28

Many would argue that May (late May in particular) is one of the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park.  Summer crowds have not yet arrived but the snow is melting and the weather is warming. If you’re prepared to deal with frigid nights, there’s really no downside to visiting during May. 

Most of Yellowstone’s roads and passes open for the season, and many hiking trails also become accessible – especially at lower elevations.

In terms of weather, days are pleasant and nights are cool. Daytime temperatures range between 50 and 60°F and nighttime temps typically hover around 30°F. Rain and snow are both a possibility, so it’s a good idea to arrive prepared.

A huge perk of visiting Yellowstone in May is the abundance of wildlife you’ll encounter. Bison are calving in Lamar Valley, and elk are calving near Mammoth Hot Springs. Wildflower season arrives in May, and the meadows are likely to be littered with fresh blooms. Many hiking trails also open during the month.

Of course, you can’t miss the Yellowstone icons – be sure to visit Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Yellowstone Lake.  All 4 of these popular landmarks are open to the public during May. 

As far as hiking goes, Fairly Falls is an easy 5-mile out-and-back trail that goes past Grand Prismatic Overlook. Or, for a more strenuous option, try the Seven Mile Hole Trail leading down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

There are numerous lodging options inside Yellowstone National Park. Canyon Lodge and Cabins and Grant Village Lodge are two good choices.

In terms of camping, many campgrounds remain closed in May, but Madison Campground typically opens in the first week of the month and Bridge Bay Campground opens mid-month.

Yellowstone Glamping is also a fabulous option, and there are several glamping sites that open in May just outside the park gates.

Yellowstone is a favorite within the park system, and one of the best national parks to visit in May to avoid the crowds.

Recommended by Jenna of Up and Away Magazine

19. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Average temp:  high 69, low 43

One of the best US national parks is Great Smoky Mountains. With over 14 million visitors annually , to say this park is busy is an understatement!

The biggest months for visitors are June, July, August and October. Summer is peak travel season across the US, and October is busy because of the stunning fall foliage that blankets the Smoky Mountains.

So by visiting the Smoky Mountains in May, you’re avoiding the busiest times of year while also benefitting from the nice spring weather . You’ll probably see more rain in May than in the summer or fall, but that just means wildflowers and lush waterfalls!

The best waterfalls in the park require hikes, but it’s so worth it! Hike 2.4 miles on Laurel Falls Trail , 2.6 miles round trip on Grotto Falls Smoky Mountains or 5.5 miles on Abrams Falls Trail . Wear good hiking shoes and hiking socks for these trails, along with trekking poles .

While in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, be sure to visit Clingman’s Dome for 360-degree views of the Smokies. Stunning!

Gatlinburg is a great home base while exploring the park. With a vibrant downtown and plenty of places to eat, you’ll find hotels within walking distance. Try the Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg or Bearskin Lodge on the River for convenient locations.

20. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland (a fun one on this list of best national parks to visit in May)

Average temp:  high 71, low 54

May is the perfect time to visit Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland! Explore this barrier island without the extreme heat or the tourists that summer can bring. The park is protected and limits visitors, so avoiding peak season is a great idea!

Assateague sits just off the Eastern Shore of Maryland. You can reach it by driving, walking, or biking over the Verrazano Bridge that connects to the mainland near Ocean City.

Keep an eye out for wild ponies as soon as you cross the bridge. They roam the island freely and can be found in the marsh grasses, on the beaches, on the roads, really, just about anywhere. Other wildlife includes deer, fox and over 200 species of birds. 

Bring your binoculars to help spot herons, egrets, and even bald eagles. Your best chance to see these birds are the trails through the sea grass on the bay side, the Marsh Nature Trail and the Forest Nature Trail.

You can easily do all of the trails in one day. But you’ll also want to explore the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. Pristine white sandy beaches are perfect for long walks, surfing, and swimming if it’s warm enough.

The weather in May can be fickle, so if you are set on going for a dip, bring a wetsuit. There are also options for kayaking and kite surfing. 

The best place to stay for campers is on the island, be sure to reserve ahead of time.

There are not hotels or eateries on Assateague, so if you don’t bring your own food, it will give you a good excuse to eat at one of the crab restaurants in Ocean City . After all, you can’t leave the area without trying some of the famous Maryland Blue Crab!

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise

21. Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Average temp:  high 74, low 55

Volcanoes National Park is an absolute must-see as part of any Big Island road trip , especially in May. Not only is the weather warm and sunny with temperatures ranging between 60-80°F, but where else in the world can you explore one of the most active volcanoes in the world (Kilauea) amidst the jungle?   

One of the most popular things to do in the park is the Kilauea Iki Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop that takes you through the lush rainforest and across the volcanic crater to the Thurston Lava Tube. There are also 3 and 5-mile versions of this hike that provide similar views throughout.

If you’re looking for a driving route, be sure to do the Crater Rim Drive. The Crater Rim Drive is an 11-mile route that wraps around the rim of the Kilauea Caldera and provides stunning views of the volcano with stopping points along the way.

The Chain of Craters Road is also another popular driving route, which is a 38-mile round-trip drive that will take you to the coast. 

If there’s been a recent eruption, you can revisit the park at night to watch the lava flow. The shortest trail is the Devastation Trail, which is an easy 2-mile out-and-back hike that takes you to one of the 3 main eruption viewing locations in the park.

Hilo is the closest main city to Volcanoes National Park. However, if you’re looking for the most immersive accommodation, the best option is to stay at Volcano House which is located in the park itself.

Volcanoes National Park is truly a one-of-a-kind and spectacular place to visit, and one of the most unique national parks in the US. Visiting in May provides the perfect climate to explore much of its natural beauty.

Recommended by Jina of By Jina Lee

Whew! What a list, right?! Whether you love jagged mountains, wide open spaces or out-of-this-world landscapes, the USA has some pretty phenomenal parks!

There’s truly something for everyone on this list, no matter your vacation style.

Let’s review this list again, in a more succinct fashion…

National parks to visit in May

• Arches National Park, Utah
• Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Kings Canyon National Park, California
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
• Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
• Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
• Badlands National Park, South Dakota
• Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
• Redwoods National Park, California
• Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
• Zion National Park, Utah
• Yosemite National Park, California
• Saguaro National Park, Arizona
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
• Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland 
• Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Related content you might like: 26 Best National Parks to Visit in October

Find this post helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

Saturday 18th of February 2023

So many great places on this list. I LOVE that you included the temperature range - that is SO helpful! Especially for the parks in the desert Southwest that can get very warm in May. Great post!

Monday 20th of February 2023

Yes Yvonne! I'm a sucker for finding the 'perfect' weather, so it's helpful for planning. Thanks for visiting the site!

My travel bucket list has just gotten so much longer after this incredible blog post. There are so many National parks that I want to visit. Thank you for this list.

You're so welcome Nicola! There's so many spectacular landscapes to see in the US, that's for sure :)

Wanderlust Travel & Photos

Seeing the world one trip at a time.

• Work With Me
• Travel Journal
• Privacy Policy
• Browse by Continent
• Australia Travel
• Peru Travel
• Thailand Travel
• Browse by Region
• East North Central
• East South Central
• Mid-Atlantic
• New England
• South Atlantic
• West North Central
• West South Central
• Central America
• North America
• South America
• Travel Vlog
• Instagram Photos

The Top 20 Mountain Travel Destinations in the World

LAST UPDATED – 2/14/24 – The 20 Top Mountain Travel Destinations in the World

If you are like me, the thought of spending time in the mountains gets your adrenaline flowing and you just can’t stop thinking about the breathtaking vistas, exhilarating hikes, and unforgettable adventures exploring amazing slopes, valleys, and peaks.  That’s why mountain travel destinations are my favorite landscapes in the world. 

Not only are they amongst the prettiest landscapes you will find on this planet, but they are also some of the most exciting landscapes to explore.  In addition to having some of the most epic hiking trails and climbing routes in the world, mountain destinations also have some of the most amazing wildlife to view.

Mountain Destinations Are My Passion

As a travel enthusiast and mountain lover, I have spent quite a bit of time researching and visiting some of this world’s most amazing mountain travel destinations.  Some truly spectacular mountain destinations all over the world are just waiting for you to get out and explore them. 

Whether you are looking to conquer the slopes of Denali in Alaska’s Denali National Park, trek to the top of Africa’s highest peak at Mount Kilimanjaro, or explore some of the highest mountains in the world in the Himalayas, there is a seemingly endless supply of mountain adventures out there waiting to be had.

In this article, I am going to lay out what I think are the Top 20 Mountain Travel Destinations in the World.  As you can see on the map below, these destinations are spread out far and wide over the globe.  If you are looking for your next big adventure in the mountains, I would suggest starting with this list.

View Larger Map

20. Table Mountain

South africa.

Widely considered to be one of the top tourist attractions near Cape Town, South Africa, Table Mountain is also one of the most unique-looking mountains that you will find at any destination on this list of mountain travel destinations.  Its flat top is very distinct, which is why it was given the name “Table Mountain”.  While the highest point of the mountain is only a meager 3,564 feet (1,086 meters), it can be a fun and challenging climb.

If you are interested in climbing to the top, there are various routes that you can choose from and each takes roughly 3 hours of hiking to get to the top.  If you aren’t up for the challenge of getting to the top on your own, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway can bring you to the top for just a small fee.  One of the most unique animals that you will see near the top of Table Mountain is the Dassie.  It’s a very unique creature whose closest relative is the elephant, though it looks a lot more like a large rat.

19. The Pyrenees

France\spain.

Stretching roughly 305 miles (491 kilometers) on the border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees mountain range is characterized by an absence of the great lakes that you often see in the lateral valleys of the Alps in North and Central Europe.  Despite not having the large, alpine lakes and the large ski resorts, the Pyrenees are incredibly beautiful and very culturally diverse.  In the Western Pyrenees, you will find the Basque culture and its amazing cuisine to explore in the evenings after a long day of exploration and hiking in the mountains.

Not to be outdone, in the Eastern Pyrenees, the Catalan culture and its amazing seafood and cultural traditions are unique.  While the highest peak in the Pyrenees, Aneto Peak in Spain isn’t as high as the tallest peaks you will find in the Alps, its 11,169 feet high (3,404 meters) peak is still a challenge to reach.  If you are an experienced backpacker, it is possible to hike the length of the Pyrenees along the GR10 from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.  Along the way, you will enjoy seeing beautiful 10,000-plus feet (3,000-plus meters) high peaks, dense forests, and amazing wildlife.

18. Vinicunca

The first of the mountain travel destinations in South America on my list may also be one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on my list as well.  While the area around Cusco is most famous for being the gateway to spectacular Incan ruins at Machu Picchu, the city is also the gateway to other destinations further up into the Andes Mountains.  One of the more popular destinations at higher altitudes in the Andes is Vinicunca, which is otherwise known as the Rainbow Mountain.

Vinicunca, in the local Quechua language of the Peruvian Andes, means “colorful necklace”.  However, it is also referred to locally as “Montaña de Siete Colores”, which means “mountain of seven colors”.  The pink dirt is created by red clay, the whitish dirt from quartz, the yellowish dirt is actually sandstone and limestone-rich sulfurous minerals, and the turquoise color comes from phyllite compounds and clays rich in iron-magnesium.

Together, these differing soils create one of the most unique and beautiful mountaintops you will find anywhere in the world.  The best time to view the mountain is between April and October, which is the dry season in Peru and the weather is most predictable.  If you decide to visit, make sure you are prepared for the altitude as the mountaintop sits at 17,060 feet (or 5,199 meters).

17.  Grand Teton National Park

United states.

There are some stunningly beautiful spots in the American Rocky Mountains to visit, but my favorite of these spots in the continental United States is undoubtedly Grand Teton National Park.  Established in 1929 and then again in 1950, the 96,000-acre Grand Teton National Park encompasses almost the entire Teton Mountain Range and six large glacial lakes.  Eight peaks within the park rise to over 12,000 feet (3,656 meters), with the highest peak being the Grand Teton (13,770 feet or 4,197 meters).

In addition to having some of the best hiking trails in the US National Park System, the Grand Teton National Park is also a great place to spot wildlife.  Along with its neighboring sister park, Yellowstone, the Grand Teton National Park is a great place to spot the likes of moose, American bison, pronghorn antelope, Roosevelt elk, grizzly bear, black bear, grey wolves, and even bighorn sheep.  For more information on how to visit the Grand Teton National Park, please refer to my Yellowstone and Grand Teton Visitor Guide linked below.

16. Tiger’s Nest

According to legend, Guru Rinpoche arrived in Bhutan on the back of a flying tigress.  While he visited several caves and cliffsides to meditate, he spent the majority of his time on the mountainside above the Paro Valley.  A monastery was eventually built on this spot and is now known as Paro Taktsang or Tiger’s Nest.  The monastery sits roughly 3,000 feet (915 meters) above the valley floor and 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) above sea level.   Without any doubt, it is one of the premier mountain travel destinations in the world.

If you want to hike up to the monastery you can, but the hike is very steep.  There are several different paths that you can take when you hike and the most popular of which takes you through a pine forest and past a collection of prayer flags.    No matter which path you choose, it is guaranteed to be an adventure you will remember.

If you visit in April, the Tsechu festival is held in the Paro Valley below.  The festival honors and remembers Guru Rinpoche and is marked by festive dancing all throughout the valley.  Visiting during the festival is a great way to see ancient Buddhist traditions performed in one of this world’s most beautiful and iconic settings.

15. Grindelwald

Switzerland.

The city of Grindelwald, or the “glacier village” as it is known locally, is one of the oldest resort towns in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland and one of the best places to visit to see the Swiss Alps in all of their glory.  The area is home to many 13,000+ feet (or 4,000+ meters) peaks, including the Eiger and Jungfrau mountains.  Being in the middle of so many large peaks means that Grindelwald is one of the best places in the Swiss Alps to do some alpine skiing and hiking.

Grindelwald is a Mountaineering Hot Spot

It is also one of the most popular places in all of Europe for mountaineering, which is why alpine climbers flock to Grindelwald each year to test their mettle on the area’s mountains.  Even if you aren’t an alpine climber or skier, the area’s beautiful mountain scenery, traditional cog railways, and fantastic food make Grindelwald one of the top mountain travel destinations and a great tourist destination for mountain lovers of all kinds.  Not to mention, because it is in such close proximity to the cities of Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen, you can spend weeks touring and eating your way through these beautiful valleys.

14. The Dolomites

Although they make up just a small portion of the Alps mountain range in Europe, the Dolomites of Northern Italy are some of the most beautiful and spectacular mountains you will find there.  They aren’t the tallest mountains you will find on the continent, as the tallest peak in the Dolomites is only about 11,000 feet (or 3,350 meters) tall, but their craggy look and rich landscape make them one of the best mountain travel destinations in Europe to explore.

Whether you are looking to hike, climb, ski, or participate in one of the area’s many adventure activities (such as base jumping, paragliding, hang gliding, and heli-skiing), there is something to entertain every type of outdoor enthusiast.  Even if you aren’t interested in any wild adventures, there are plenty of cross-country ski and hiking trails to keep even the most laid-back of travelers busy.

If you are looking for recommendations on where to go and what to do, I would strongly recommend looking into the Via Ferrata Routes.  These old WWI routes that used to have wooden steps and ropes to guide you along the mountain routes have been updated to include steel rungs and ladders.

If you have hiked in Acadia National Park in the United States, they are a lot like what you see on the Precipice and Beehive Trails in that park.  If you aren’t interested in a challenging hike\climb but still want to see some amazing scenery, I would recommend checking out the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.  Here you will find an easy 2-hour loop hike that offers some of the most spectacular views of the Dolomites.

13. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

New zealand.

When it comes to acclaimed mountain climbers, few climbers are as renowned or as revered as Sir Edmund Hillary.  Most people are aware of Hillary’s exploits on Mount Everest, but what many people are unaware of is that Hillary sharpened his climbing skills on Mount Cook before ever attempting to climb Everest.  As the tallest mountain in New Zealand and the centerpiece of the breathtaking Southern Alps that dominate much of the landscape on New Zealand’s Southern Island, Mount Cook is a breathtaking sight to behold.

The area also has a rich and important native history.  According to Ngāi Tahu legend, Aoraki and his three brothers, sons of the Sky Father Rakinui, were on a sea voyage when their canoe overturned.  When they climbed to the top of their canoe to escape the water, the freezing south wind turned them into stone.  Their canoe became the South Island while the three brothers became the peaks of the Southern Alps.

The Park Has World Renowned Hiking Tracks

For travelers visiting Aoraki\Mount Cook National Park, climbing isn’t the only activity that you can enjoy.  There are several amazing hiking tracks within the park and a lookout where you can see the gigantic Tasman Glacier, which is the largest glacier in New Zealand.  If you would like to get a better view of the landscape, you can always get a bird’s eye view from a helicopter or airplane tour.

Speaking of airplanes, New Zealand isn’t just one of the top mountain travel destinations in the world.  It is also considered by many travelers to be the adventure capital of the world, and one of the most popular adventures is skydiving.  To learn more about Aoraki\Mount Cook National Park and how to visit, please reference my Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Visitor Guide linked below.

Not too long ago, Manali used to be the backpacking capital of India.  There was an incredibly popular “hippie trail” that ran from Manali to Kullu and was a magnet for travelers looking to explore the beautiful Himalayan region on a budget. 

Fast forward to today, and the Manali region has blossomed into one of the most popular and developed mountain travel destinations in the Indian Himalayas.  No longer is this spot the hidden gem that it used to be.  That may be a disappointment to the most ardent backpackers out there, but it also means that the beauty of this region is accessible to more travelers.

Located high in the Indian Himalayas, Manali offers spellbinding views of the gorgeous mountain range.  If you get up early and look over the fog-covered slopes and the tiny cottages that are dotted over the landscape, you will swear you are dreaming.  Really, it is that beautiful.  For the hiking enthusiasts out there, hiking the Rohtang Pass is a hiking adventure that is popular with die-hard hiking enthusiasts.

Among the other adventure activities, the area is known for include skiing and river rafting.  For those looking for a more laid-back adventure, getting some rest and relaxation in one of the region’s Himalayan spas is an experience you will never forget.  No matter what brings you to Manali, exploring a beautiful region of this world’s tallest mountains would be an amazing adventure.

11. Kirkjufell

When it comes to breathtaking mountain travel destinations, few other countries in Europe can compete with the jaw-dropping views that you see on the island nation of Iceland.  From the giant glaciers like Vatnajökull and Skaftafell to the beautiful waterfalls like Godafoss and Seljalandsfoss, Iceland is chock-full of mind-blowingly gorgeous landscapes. 

In fact, the landscapes you see in Iceland are so unique that you will be hard-pressed to find others like them elsewhere in the world.  One of these unique and beautiful landscapes I am referring to is the Kirkjufell mountain, which sits on the Snæfellsnesnes peninsula in the Western part of Iceland.

Rising 1,519 feet (or 463 meters) above sea level on the outskirts of the small fishing town of Grundarfjörður, Kirkjufell may be the most photographed mountain in all of Europe.  It is certainly the most photographed mountain in Iceland.  If you would like to get a little more up-close-and-personal with the mountain, you can hike to the top.  However, you should not attempt the hike unless weather conditions are optimal because it is a difficult hike and can be hazardous.

If you aren’t an experienced hiker, you can arrange to do the hike as part of a guided expedition with a guide who is very familiar with the area.  For those who aren’t into hiking, you can opt for taking a guided horseback ride instead.  No matter how you choose to explore the area, it will certainly be an adventure you won’t soon forget.

10.  Denali National Park

If you’re looking for a pure wilderness experience, it is really tough to compete with the experience you will have when you visit Denali National Park in the state of Alaska in the United States.  World-renowned for its phenomenal wildlife, breathtaking mountain peaks, and beautiful glacially-fed rivers, Denali National Park has earned every bit of its reputation as an outdoor enthusiast’s dreamland.

Because of its isolated location in the middle of the vast Alaska wilderness, Denali National Park isn’t one of the easiest of America’s national parks to get to.  However, this is part of the park’s appeal. Combined with its sheer beauty, the remoteness and isolation of the park give it the last frontier kind of feel.  This alone makes it one of the premier mountain travel destinations in the world.

It also doesn’t hurt that the park is home to Mount Denali (or formerly known as Mount McKinley), which at 20,308 feet (or 6,189 meters) is the tallest mountain in North America.  It may not be as tall as some of the tallest mountains in the Himalayas, but when it comes to alpine climbs, it can be every bit as difficult.

While climbing the mountain should be reserved for only the most experienced, trained, and guided climbers, that doesn’t mean there aren’t hiking adventures for less experienced hikers and climbers to be enjoyed in the park.  In fact, there are plenty of great hiking trails and lookout points with breathtaking views for all travelers to enjoy in the park.  All you need to do is get there to enjoy them!

9. Mount Fuji

Of all the mountains found at all of the destinations on my list of the Top 20 Mountain Travel Destinations, few are as perfectly shaped or as beautiful as Mount Fuji in Japan.  At 12,388 feet (or 3,776 meters) tall, not only is it Japan’s highest mountain, but it is also the country’s most climbed one as well.  What most people don’t realize is that Mount Fuji isn’t a single mountain, but actually, three volcanoes stacked on top of each other.

The bottom mountain, and the oldest, is the Komitake volcano, then the Kufuji volcano, and finally the youngest of the volcanoes, Mount Fuji.  Located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, which is less than 65 miles from Tokyo, Mount Fuji is one of the more accessible mountains found at any of the locations on my list.  In fact, many visitors choose to visit Mount Fuji on a day trip from the capital.

Mount Fuji is an Incredibly Shy Mountain

However, just because it is easy to get to, that doesn’t mean it is an easy mountain to see.  In fact, Mount Fuji is notoriously shy and is usually only visible through the cloud cover roughly 80 days a year.  So if you are planning a visit to see or photograph the mountain, I would suggest building some flexibility into your schedule and monitoring the weather forecast when you are in-country.

For those with ambitions to climb Mount Fuji, several trails take you to the top.  Which trail you choose will ultimately depend on your fitness level, hiking experience, and the time you would like to take to complete the hike. 

For instance, the Yoshida Trail climbs an estimated 7,545 feet (or 2,300 meters) on its way to the top, while the Gotemba Trail only ascends roughly 4,757 feet (or 1,450 meters) on its way to the top.  If you are up for the challenge, climbing the mountain is one of the ultimate travel adventures.  And with sunrises and sunsets as legendary as are typical at Mount Fuji, the pictures you get from the top will likely be epic as well.

8. Jotunheimen Mountains

According to ancient Norse mythology, Jotunheimen was the place where the jotner, or the trolls, once lived.  When you visit this jaw-droppingly beautiful landscape, you won’t have much trouble understanding why.  In addition to being the home of Northern Europe’s highest mountains, this section of Eastern Norway is also packed with gigantic glaciers, beautiful glacial rivers and lakes, and a seemingly never-ending supply of waterfalls.

There are more than 50 marked trails that crisscross their way throughout the 1,351 square miles (or 3,500 square kilometers) of this breathtaking park.  Depending on your fitness and comfort level, you can choose between short-day hikes or multi-day adventures to explore the area.

Two of the most popular hikes in the park are the hike to the summit of the Galdhøpiggen mountain and the Besseggen trail.  If you are up for the challenge, the Galdhøpiggen summit hike takes you to the top of the 8,100-feet (or 2,469-meter) Galdhøpiggen mountain, which is a strenuous hike for even experienced hikers.  If that doesn’t sound like your pace, the Besseggen trail is equally as beautiful, but not quite as stressful.

This six-hour hike is difficult, but as Norway’s most hiked route, it is also achievable by less experienced hikers.  If you invest the time to complete the hike, it will take you across the narrow Besseggen Ridge where you will be spellbound by the breathtaking views of the Gjende and Bessvatn lakes on your sides.  This hike alone is worth traveling to Jotunheimen, the rest is just gravy.

7. Mount Kilimanjaro

If you have ever listened to the band Toto’s hit 1982 hit song “Africa”, you probably recognize the lyrics, “As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti”.  While it isn’t true that Mount Kilimanjaro can be seen from the plains of the Serengeti, it can be seen from nearby Amboseli National Park in Kenya.

This is notable because when most people think of Africa, they typically think about going on safari and seeing wild animals like lions, elephants, and rhinoceros.  What they don’t typically think about are mountain travel destinations with large, snow-capped peaks.  It may surprise you then to learn that one of the world’s most enchanting mountains, with its beautiful snow-capped peak, sits in the heart of one of Africa’s most infamous wildlife zones.

Kilimanjaro is the Tallest Free-Standing Mountain in the World

At 19,341 feet (or 5,895 meters) high, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and arguably the most mysterious mountain found at any of the destinations on my list.  While it isn’t the tallest peak in the world, it isn’t a part of a mountain range so it is considered to be the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.  While all of this is interesting, what attracts most travelers to Kilimanjaro each year is the fact that it is arguably the easiest of the highest summits on each continent to climb.

This makes it a challenging, but achievable goal for adventure travelers of all skill levels to attempt.  While it’s achievable for most travelers, you will have to put in some considerable effort to reach the top.  If you are interested in climbing the mountain, there are six main routes to the top and the average hike will take you 5 to 9 days to ascend and get back down.

If climbing the mountain doesn’t sound like something you are up for or have time for, there are also bike tours that take you around Mount Kilimanjaro that you can explore as well.  Oh, and don’t forget to make some life-long memories on a safari adventure or two while you are there.  In case you are interested, I have linked to my Serengeti National Park Safari Guide below for you to review.

6.  El Chalten

Argentinian patagonia.

Snuggled at the base of the towering Cerro Torre and Mount Fitz Roy, the small town of El Chaltén is widely considered to be one of South America’s top mountain travel destinations.  In Fact, among hiking enthusiasts, it is also considered to be the hiking capital of the Argentinian Andes.  The beautiful, jagged peaks and many world-class hiking trails attract thousands of adventurers a year.

Because of its location at the base of the mountains, there are dozens of world-class trails that are accessible just a short distance from the center of town.  Depending on your skill level and the time you have available, you can choose between short, easy routes that will take just a few hours to difficult multi-day adventures that will test your hiking and climbing skills.  Some of the most popular hiking trails in the area include Eagle Miradors, Laguna de Los Tres, Laguna Torre, and Condor Mirador.

The Town is Nestled inside Los Glaciares National Park

The town sits in the middle of the beautiful Los Glaciares National Park, so no trip to El Chaltén can be complete without taking a trip up to see a glacier.  Argentina’s largest glacier, Viedma Glacier, is located within the park on Lake Viedma and is renowned for its massive ice wall that rises up from the lake like the Wall in the HBO series Game of Thrones.

If you would like to explore the glacier, there are a variety of tours that you can book based on your experience and comfort level.  For those who may not be interested in doing a lot of hiking or glacier trekking, the area is also well known for its horseback tours that allow you to explore the stunning beauty of the area at a more leisurely pace.  Better yet, just throw down a blanket next to one of the area’s picturesque glacial lakes and enjoy the fact that you’re visiting heaven on Earth.

5.  Banff\Jasper National Parks

Out of all the destinations on my list of the Top 20 Mountain Travel Destinations, and there are some great destinations on this list, the most special place for me is undoubtedly the Banff and Jasper National Parks area in Alberta, Canada.  Growing up, my grandfather and father were larger-than-life figures and huge influences on my life and my budding love for travel.

One of my grandfather’s favorite places to talk about, and a place he always meant to take my father, was the beautiful Lake Louise near Banff National Park.  “Unparalleled beauty”, “out-of-this-world gorgeous”, “jaw-droppingly beautiful”, and nearly every other superlative that you can think of was used by my grandfather when he told us of this magical place he dreamed of sharing with us.

Sadly, my grandfather never got to take my father to see Lake Louise.  Life, as it often does, got in the way and they never got to make the trip.  Years after he passed, my father, mother, aunt, and I took a special road trip out through the Northwest, up through Glacier National Park in Montana, and into Banff National Park.  With my grandfather always on our minds, we explored the region to our utter delight.  I always thought my grandfather had to be exaggerating about the beauty of the area, but I never knew just how wrong I was until I set eyes on not only the stunning Lake Louise but the even more beautiful Lake Morraine.

Banff Looks Like it Was Lifted Out of Switzerland

The city of Banff looks and feels as though it was lifted out of some scraggly mountainside in Switzerland, and the whole area has a European Alps kind of feel.  Even if you aren’t up for hiking one of the area’s many amazing hiking paths, you will be content just to soak in the beautiful views and explore the shops and restaurants in Banff.  While you’re in town, taking the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain to enjoy the breathtaking views from the top is an absolute must.

If you have the time, you will want to drive the Icefields Parkway that stretches into Jasper National Park and up through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area.  There are multiple waterfalls and an ice bridge that you can pull over and enjoy along the way.  No matter what you do when you visit, if your trip is half as memorable as mine, it will be one that you will never forget.  If you would like more information on when and how to visit Banff National Park, please check out my Banff National Park Visitor’s Guide referenced below.

There are so many amazing and beautiful mountain travel destinations in the country of Switzerland that I could easily do a Top 20 list of my recommendations for just that country alone.  However, one place stands above all else in my heart when I think about all the wonderful adventures I have had exploring the Swiss Alps.

As the home of the most photographed mountain in the world, it shouldn’t be much of a surprise that Zermatt is ranked high on any list that talks about the top mountain destinations in the world.  The Matterhorn, with its iconic scraggly peak, rises 14,692 feet (or 4,478 meters) high and towers above the town of Zermatt.  It is only the tenth tallest mountain in Switzerland, but its shape and location make it one of the most mesmerizing and charismatic mountains in the whole world.

Zermatt is Home to World-Class Climbing Routes

If you are an outdoor adventurer, you will absolutely love Zermatt.  Between miles of outstanding hiking trails, world-class climbing routes, to some of the best alpine and cross-country skiing in Europe, there is a seemingly endless amount of activities available to keep even the most eager outdoor adventurer entertained.  If you are looking for a unique experience to have in the Swiss Alps, then I would suggest taking the world’s first fully electrified cog railway and Europe’s highest open-air railway up to Gornergrat, where at 10,134 feet (or 3,089 meters) you can look over the Alps from the roof of Europe in complete and total awe.

In addition to getting some excellent close-up views of the Matterhorn, you will get to see the Gornergrat up close, which will blow your mind.  At just shy of 8 miles (or 12.4 km) long and roughly 1 mile (or 1.5 km) wide, it is an incredible sight to behold.  If you are planning a trip to Zermatt and would like more information on what to see or when and how to visit, please refer to my Visitor’s Guide to Zermatt, Switzerland referenced below.

3.  Queenstown

If you are an outdoor enthusiast or an adventure traveler, and chances are that you are both if you are reading this article, then I probably don’t need to sell you too hard on visiting Queenstown, New Zealand.  Widely considered to be the outdoor adventure capital of the world, the number of amazing outdoor adventure activities available to travelers in the area is simply mind-boggling.

Because Queenstown is located right in the middle of the breathtaking Southern Alps, it shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise that many of these activities center around the mountains.  The sheer beauty and awe-inspiring magnitude of the beauty of this area is one of the reasons Peter Jackson decided to film much of his Lord of the Rings trilogy in the Queenstown and Glenorchy area.

New Zealand’s South Island is the Hiking Capital of the World

If you love to hike, I personally consider New Zealand’s South Island to be the hiking capital of the entire world.  Seriously, there are more amazing hiking tracks on the South Island of New Zealand than my mind can comprehend.  Not really, but you get the point.  This place is chock-full of amazing hiking trails.  In the Queenstown area, one of the most prominent hikes that you can tackle is the Ben Lomond Track.

This roughly 8-mile (or roughly 13-kilometer) hike ascends over 4,300 feet (or 1,310 meters) to the Ben Lomond summit where you are treated to some of the most amazing views of Queenstown, the Southern Alps, and Lake Wakatipu.  If you aren’t up for doing the whole hike, you can cut a portion of the beginning off by taking the Skyline Gondola up to the Stratosphere Restaurant and then hiking from there.

In addition to having a lot of impressive hiking trails, the Queenstown area is also known for its wide variety of adventure activities.  If you have ever wanted to skydive, go bungy jumping, canyon swinging, jet boat riding, or any other extreme sport that you can think of, then Queenstown is a great place to check that activity off your bucket list.

I went skydiving for my first time on the South Island and it is an experience I will never forget.  I cannot think of more stunning scenery to look at while plunging towards the Earth than the beautiful Southern Alps.  If you are interested in planning a trip to Queenstown and would like more information on what to see and do, I have linked to my Essential Queenstown, New Zealand Travel Guide for you to review below.

2. Torres del Paine

Chilean patagonia.

If you ask most travel enthusiasts, they will tell you that there is a specific travel destination that they have wanted to go to above all others.  Most often, this is a destination that they have dreamed about for years but seem to have never found a way to make it there.  For me, that destination is the Patagonia region of South America.

For me, no other location on this Earth is as beautiful, as pristine, or as raw as the breathtaking landscapes at the Southern edge of South America.  When it comes to great spots in Patagonia to visit, I am not sure many mountain travel destinations compete with the iconic Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.  You might not know this park by name, but I am sure you have seen images of the three scraggly granite towers of Torres del Paine that have made this park an iconic travel hotspot for mountain enthusiasts.

But the beauty of the park extends beyond these beautiful peaks.  If you explore the park, you will find seemingly endless pine forests, emerald blue glacial lakes, gigantic glaciers that dwarf what your mind can imagine, and golden grasslands that seem like they can go on forever.  Add all of this up and you get one of the most beautiful and breathtaking landscapes you will find on this planet.  Yes, I am being dramatic with my descriptions, but at the same time, I am not.  This destination is worthy of the drama.

The Iconic “W” Hike is One of the World’s Most Renowned Hikes

Because of its beauty, the Torres del Paine National Park is a hugely popular travel destination for outdoor enthusiasts.  There are many iconic hikes that you can take in the park, with the iconic “W” hike being the most notable.  This four-day hike takes you through some of the most beautiful of the park’s landscapes and is achievable for most people who are in decent shape and have a fair amount of hiking experience.

It’s not overly technical, but the distance can be a factor if you aren’t used to long multi-day hikes.  If you aren’t up for a multi-day hike, there are also many day hikes that you can enjoy in the park.  The Laguna Azul, Mirador Las Torres, Mirador Ferrier, and Mirador Lago Skottsberg are just some of the examples.  If you are lucky enough to go on an adventure to see Torres del Paine National Park, you are certain to be in for an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

1.  Mount Everest Base Camp

The last destination on my list of the Top 20 Mountain Travel Destinations in the World is certainly not the least, and especially not when it comes to the mountains at that destination.  Fourteen mountains on this planet are higher than 26,247 feet (or 8,000 meters) and ten of those mountains are within the Himalayas.  At 29,029 feet (or 8,848 meters) high, Mount Everest stands above all others as the tallest mountain in the world.

For some of this world’s most dedicated and ambitious outdoor adventurers, reaching the summit of Mount Everest is the ultimate goal.  If you are lucky enough to make it to the roof of the world, the views and the feeling of accomplishment must be amazing.  However, even if you don’t push for the summit of Everest, that doesn’t mean you can’t experience its magnificence or that you have to miss out on the complete adventure.

Hiking to Everest Base Camp Has Become a Tourist Destination

Tourist hikes to the Everest Base Camp, which alone sits at 17,600 feet (or 5,364 meters) high, are becoming increasingly popular in recent years.  With the out-of-this-world views that you see along the way and the challenge of getting to the base camp of the world’s tallest mountain as motivation, I can certainly see why.  However, just because you aren’t climbing the mountain, don’t be fooled into thinking it won’t be a challenge to get to base camp.

The trek to base camp itself covers 75 miles (or 12 kilometers) and ascends an altitude of 17,600 feet (or 5,364 meters), so the hike is no joke.  The hike does require a permit, so you will need to plan ahead if you are thinking about hiking to base camp.  Most hikers will hire a guide, but they are not required.  Whether you decide to hire one for your trek will ultimately depend on your experience and comfort level.  Either way, you are going to have the most amazing alpine hiking experience that this world has to offer.  Enjoy it and take lots of pictures!

Don’t Forget to Subscribe to My Adventures!

Type your email…

Let Me Help You Save On Your Next Adventure!

‘start exploring today’ merchandise available now.

Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

Related Articles

The Ultimate Gibraltar Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Segovia, Spain Travel Guide: Exploring the Historic City

Planning the Perfect Two-Week Thailand and Cambodia Itinerary

9 comments ›.

Kili and Everest Bc is next on my list!!

Awesome!!!! Kili was so surreal to see in person. Wish I had more time there to climb it. I am going to definitely have to go back. Everest would be amazing!!!

Thanks for the post great info

Thank you so much!! 😀

What a wonderful post. I love mountains. Reading about the Pyrenees was especially poignant, given the cancelled trip, but we have all committed (verbally, at least) to giving it a try again next summer (especially since the Pyrenees accommodation would only give an 18-month voucher, not an actual refund of the deposit). Considering climbing another 14er this summer. We’ll see what happens. Thanks for a very picturesque start to my day!

Thank you so much!!!! I am so bummed that your trip got cancelled, but am glad you rescheduled already. I absolutely LOVE the mountains too!! Hopefully will bag my first few 14ers this summer 😃👍

Sooo many of these are on my bucket list!! My favourites have got to be Banff National Park and Mount Cook (just the entirety of the south island of New Zealand to be honest!). South America really looks incredible too, I always forget just how stunning it is until I get reminders like this.

My bucket list keeps growing too!! The South Island of New Zealand and Banff are EPIC!! 😀👍

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Thank you so much for the kind words!!

Wonderful, very nice article

[…] Late November or late February are particularly recommended as they offer a balance between good weather and slightly fewer…

I agree!! It is such an incredible place!

Discover more from Wanderlust Travel & Photos

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading

Subscribe To My Adventures!

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Trip Styles
• Destinations

• Tour Calendar

PLEASE NOTE: If you’re interested in  Grand Canyon backpacking trips , and you don’t see them in the calendar, it’s likely because permits aren’t available yet. Permits are issued approximately 4 months prior, and it’s extremely beneficial  to register before the permit process begins. Learn more or register on the  individual trip pages .

Select a Month

• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HIKING IN MAY

Benefits of hiking in may.

May is one of the busiest months of the year for us at Wildland Trekking. This is for several important reasons that also provide huge benefits to guests hiking in the month of May. First, a couple massively popular trips open up – these include the Rim to Rim hike in the Grand Canyon and the Half Dome Trek in Yosemite . May is a phenomenal time of year to join any of our hikes in Yosemite because the waterfalls are running at their peak flows, which is spectacular.

Second, in May you can pick from many desert and canyon destinations (like Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands, Sedona’s Red Rock Country and more) because they are in their prime season. And you can also pick from multiple mountain destinations which are just starting to open up or are very close to their prime (like Yosemite, the Smoky Mountains, the Blue Ridge Mountains, Yellowstone and more.)

Internationally, May is considered one of the best months of the year to hike the Inca Trail or other Peru treks . And Vietnam is still excellent.

Finally, a huge benefit of May is that schools and colleges are still in session so the summer peak tourist season is not yet underway. This means you can enjoy some amazing destinations with relative solitude.

DRAWBACKS OF HIKING IN May

One of the biggest drawbacks of hiking in May is that there aren’t very many international destinations that are in their prime. Peru and the Inca Trail are the major exceptions to this point.

Another drawback, especially in mid to late May, is that the Grand Canyon is moving closer to its higher summer temperatures, which inside the Canyon can be 105 degrees fahrenheit in the shade.

WHERE TO HIKE

–  USA desert and canyon destinations – these options include Grand Canyon, Sedona’s Red Rock Country, Zion, Bryce, Grand Staircase-Escalante, Paria Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands and more.

– USA mountain destinations – the major mountain destinations that are open, some in their early seasons, in May are Yosemite, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Mountains and Yellowstone.

–  Trekking and backpacking internationally – recommended options for May are Peru and Vietnam.

wildland Wires

Sign up to receive our exclusive Wildland Wire emails and stay up to date with Wildland Trekking's promotions, discounts, contests, outdoor tips and tricks, trip reports and more!

Elizabeth Atkin | 13 April 2022

The 20 best places to visit in may.

We reveal the best destinations to travel to in May, for ideal weather, natural wonders, cultural highlights, primetime wildlife watching experiences and longer-term trips...

May is such a lovely month for many places around the world: for wildlife watching, optimum weather and arts and culture experiences – so figuring out where to go and what to see can be tricky.

So, whether you’re looking for planning a longer-term trip, or are just looking for a May short break somewhere pleasantly sunny, we’ve got recommendations for you.

Skip ahead to your chosen travel type by clicking on one of the below, or keep scrolling for the full list:

The best May destinations for nature and ideal weather

• The best longer-term travel experiences for May
• Where to go in May for arts and cultural experiences
• The best places to visit for wildlife watching in May

Here are the 20 best places to visit in May…

1. south korea.

Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan, South Korea (Dreamstime)

There seems to be a million and one good reasons to visit South Korea in May. Especially as the country has now reopened without quarantine to vaccinated arrivals!

Firstly, there’s the pleasant weather, with lows of 13 ° C and highs of 23 ° C. Clear skies and warm days are on the horizon, before the humidity picks up in summer.

Early May also sees Damyang’s annual Bamboo Festival take place, with opportunities to try bamboo stalk-brewed booze, make bamboo crafts and fish with a bamboo basket yourself. There’s also the Boseong Green Tea Festival. No medals for guessing what that’s about!

Flights are often reasonably-priced in May, too – given that peak season is March to May and September to November.

Fuji surrounded by cherry blossoms, Japan (Dreamstime)

Although we can't visit Japan just yet, we can look forward to travels (hopefully) in 2023.

May marks the end of Japan’s spring, when the weather is starting to get a little warmer. It arrives just before the start of the rainy season in June, which lasts all summer until August.

Early May makes a lovely time to visit Japan, especially if you want to enjoy hanami (cherry blossom viewing). Throughout spring, the country’s famous pale pink cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Blooms of wisteria are also prime for viewing in early May. Plants are tucked away all over. Ashikaga Flower Park, and the wisteria tunnel at Kawachi Fuji Gardens in Kitakyushu, are particularly stunning.

Ait Ben Haddour Ksar, a Berber town in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Dreamstime)

All being well, you’ll be able to enjoy warmth during the day (with temps ranging from 15 to 29 ° C) and relax during the cooler evenings – before temps across the country start to soar as summer begins.

It’s an especially good time to visit the coast (Rabat, Casablanca and Essaouira are all cities nearby), or go on a serious hike. The weather in the Atlas Mountains, for example, should be mild enough, day and night, to make longer treks more pleasant (despite maybe the odd shower).

Like Japan, Morocco is at its most naturally beautiful during springtime. Expect to see lots of vibrant green as you get out in nature.

4. South of England

An idyllic image of Aylesford village in the county of Kent, South of England (Dreamstime)

We can’t pretend the weather in England is always easy to predict. Or that it will definitely be on your side if you visit in May. But it is usually brightening up and getting a bit less chilly. You’ll also have a better chance weather-wise down south than up north, where it’s usually a fair few degrees colder.

The south is also where you’ll be able to enjoy some of the region’s blooming bluebell woods in Kent, Wiltshire and beyond. There’s also the Chelsea Flower Show taking place in London throughout May.

The rest of London needs no introduction – but there are plenty of free things to do . If you do fancy London, keep an eye out for the end of May half-term week, and try to avoid a clash to avoid further crowds.

Read more 7 pretty towns on the UK’s south coast

5. bahamas, caribbean.

The Bahamas from above (Dreamstime)

Sun-seekers should head to the Bahamas in early May, where temps go as high as 29 ° C during the day, and stay warm in the evening, averaging around 22 ° C. Later in May and going into June, you're looking at rainy season.

With over 700 islands making up the Bahamas, there's plenty to do beyond lounging on the beach. You could dive the Abacos, the third largest coral reef in the world, or go birding in Inagua National Park, which is home to 50,000 pink flamingos.

6. Washington D.C.

The United States Capitol (Dreamstime)

The United States’ capital city experiences highs of 23 ° C and lows of 12 ° C in May. Summer in D.C. is usually called 'sticky' - though this way you're still catching a few spring rays.

The National Memorial Day Parade takes place in May, as does Passport DC throughout the month, with workshops, exhibitions and fun festivals taking place to celebrate its diplomatic community. 

You may also be lucky to catch a free jazz concert at the National Gallery of Art, if the weather's nice enough.

The best longer-term travel experiences to take on in May

7. sri lanka's east coast.

Arugam Bay Beach in Sri Lanka (Dreamstime)

You could spend months in Sri Lanka, but regardless of long you’ve got to explore, there are a few key reasons why May’s a great time to go. The less-popular east coast has plenty of dreamy beaches to visit this time of year, and won't be suffering from monsoon season.

In the south east, it's also the right time to see leopards. Yala National Park is particularly pretty over the summer months. In May, palu trees grow fruit, and you may be able to spot sloth bears coming out to eat.

Vesak, a Buddhist holiday marking the birth, enlightenment and death of Gautama Buddha, is also widely celebrated across Sri Lanka in May.

8. Uzbekistan, along the Silk Road

Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis in Samarkand, Uzbekistan (Dreamstime)

Weather-wise, April to May is one of the better visiting windows for Uzbekistan. Being a desert country, it's often rather hot and dry during the summer.

So, May is the ideal time to explore this part of the Silk Road, voted top emerging must-visit destination by Wanderlust readers in our Reader Travel Awards 2019. 

There are countless routes to choose from ,  but a visit to the city of Samarkand in Uzbekistan, known for its impressive mosques and mausoleums and distinctive blue mosaics, is an absolute must. 

9. Inca Trail, Peru

Inca Trail in Peru (Dreamstime)

It's long been thought that hiking the famous Inca Trail is best done in May. It won't be quite as busy as it will be in the summer, and the weather's very palatable: not much rainfall, and easy temperatures (with lows of 11 ° C and highs of 25 ° C).

Fortunately, it'll be less chilly on nights in May, as it does get colder as the sun goes down in June, July and August. You'll be avoiding rainy season, which takes place from December to April.

10. Trekking in Northern Vietnam

The rice fields of Sa Pa, in Vietnam (Dreamstime)

Hiking the rice fields and mountains of Vietnam isn't advised during the rainy season of June to September. It'll take you longer, and it's likely there'll be far more Vietnamese visitors trekking during these months.

Instead, outdoor activities in towns like Sa Pa, Ha Giang, Bac Ha, and Mu Cang Chai should be done in May, right before rainy season begins, while the weather's still warm and dry. 

11. Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

A view of the active Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica (Shutterstock)

Early May is the very start of rainy season in Costa Rica, but with the added benefit of not really being that rainy.

It does have a few more benefits: the lushness of the transitional 'green season' is in full force and you'll also find it's less crowded. Chances are you'll be more likely to find better deals on accommodation and flights.

Despite a little bit of unpredictability with the weather, it is a good time to see the active Arenal Volcano and take part in the many outdoor activities in the surrounding national park. For best views of the volcano, visit early in the morning or later at night.

The best May destinations for arts & culture

12. brighton, uk.

Brighton Pier, UK (Dreamstime)

If you do find yourself in the South of England in May, it’s worth checking out the annual arts festival in Brighton and Hove.

It’s a multi-art festival, so expect exhibits, events and activities across the creative board, including (but not limited to) music, dance, literature and film throughout the month.

It's also a good time to check out the city itself  before the flocks of tourists arrive in the summer months, with its pebble beach, independent shops and fascinating  landmarks. 

13. Barcelona, Spain

Arcade Fire performing at 2014's Primavera Sound in Barcelona, Spain (Dreamstime)

Prepare for lots of crowds in Barcelona at the very end of May, as visitors pour in for Primavera Sound music festival.

The main event takes place in Barcelona, but if you can’t bear a tourist trap, then you could always go to the festival’s slightly-less-manic second location in Porto, Portugal .

14. Vienna, Austria

Hofburg Palace in Vienna, Austria (Dreamstime)

Did you know,, Vienna has been voted the best city in the world to live in for 10 years running? You don’t really need a reason to visit Vienna, the capital of Austria. Whatever the weather, there’s something for you to do, plenty of coffeehouses to visit and museums to explore.

If you do need an excuse, Austria’s biggest food festival comes to town for 3 days in May. Head to the glorious Stadtpark for Genussfestival Food Fair in mid-May, and try many of the country’s national dishes. Viennese potato gulash is a must-eat.

15. Prague, Czech Republic

A view of Prague from above (Dreamstime)

Similarly, visiting Prague at any time of year will reap rewards – despite how busy the main attractions (like the padlocked Charles bridge) may get.

May is a particularly good time to go to the Czech Republic’s gorgeous capital if you want to experience what the city’s known for: beer! Yep, there’s a 17-day event each May called the Czech Beer Festival.

The best May destinations for wildlife watching

16. komodo island, indonesia.

A Komodo Dragon, the world's largest lizard, on Komodo Island (Dreamstime)

The famed Komodo Island is known as the homeland of the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo Dragon. In May, it’s mating season! So, an interesting time to visit…

The island is entirely covered by Komodo National Park, where up to 4,000 of these pre-historic creatures live among the volcanic hills and forests.

Read next  22 of the world's most weird and wonderful wildlife

17. phillip island, australia.

A penguin peeking out on Phillip Island, Australia (Shutterstock)

Phillip Island is a well-known destination for wildlife watchers keen to see penguins. In May, penguins start their nest building, and can usually be spotted around 5.30pm. There’s also a ‘penguin parade’ at sunset, whatever the weather.

From May to October, there’s a chance of seeing whales, too. Humpback whales and southern right whales are often spotted along the Victoria coast. There are numerous trails  and update pages to help you with the best chance of spotting.

18. Botswana

A leopard hanging out in the Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana (Dreamstime)

Dry season begins in May and lasts until October, and low season for safari parks is December to April – so May is an ideal time to visit any of Botswana’s main safari reserves, including Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta.

Not only does it have some of the best weather conditions for safari (clear skies, warm weather without overbearing heat and only a small chance of rainfall), but it’s also before the absolute peak season begins in June.

Read next  Best places to view leopards in Africa

19. svalbard, norway.

A polar bear adrift in Svalbard, Norway (Dreamstime)

Polar bears can be spotted around Svalbard all year round – there are said to be around 3,000 in the region.

There aren’t ‘safaris’ as such – the best way to see them is via a cruise around the archipelago. You’ll need a guide with you to ensure you’re safe. Polar bears aren’t as cuddly as they look.

May is the beginning of the season, and is the best time to go if you’re a wildlife photography enthusiast, as the ice hasn’t quite melted yet. You’ll be in for some epic shots.

20. Galapagos Islands

A green turtle swimming around the Galapagos Islands (Dreamstime)

Not only is the weather in the Galapagos beautiful in May, with milder temperatures and a lower humidity, but its effects can be seen across the islands in the lush green foliage.

There are typically less visitors in May, which is useful info if you want to avoid the crowds. It’s ideal for animal lovers, who’ll be able to witness green turtles hatching from their eggs. Penguins nest in May, and you may be able to spot them from Fernandina Island or certain parts of Isabela Island.

Birdwatchers will also be able to spy blue-footed boobies doing their courtship dance, waved albatross and greater flamingos, among a host of other species, across various islands.

The best places to visit in June

The best places to visit in july, the best places to visit in august, related articles, looking for inspiration.

Join our newsletter

Get the very best of Wanderlust  by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.

15 Best Treks in May

About treks in may.

Witness the magical beauty of the Himalayas come alive as you embark on thrilling treks in May. With the onset of the summer season in the Himalayas, the trekking trails see pleasant weather conditions and lush greenery adorning the mountains, valleys, and meadows, making May one of the best months for trekking here.

The best treks in May are spread through the Indian states of Uttarakhand, Himachal and Sikkim, with some high-altitude treks even offering snow-filled adventures. Admire the local traditions and scenic beauty of Uttarakhand as you go for the treks of Dayara Bugyal, Har ki Dun, Rupin Pass, Bali Pass, and Gaumukh Tapovan. Listen to fascinating myths and legends from highly experienced guides as you camp and trek in Himachal’s iconic treks of Kheerganga, Hampta Pass, Buran Ghati, Triund, Friendship Peak, Sar Pass, and Indrahar Pass. And if you are looking for an offbeat Himalayan trek experience, try Sikkim’s Goecha La and Dzongri treks.

Popular Treks to do in May

Himalayan treks in May are a must-try experience and offer an unforgettable experience for beginners as well as experienced trekkers. From snow-capped mountain ranges and lush green meadows to calm rivers and beautiful lakes, nature at its finest and pristine state can be witnessed on treks of Dayara Bugyal, Rupin Pass, Bali Pass, and Buran Ghati, among others. Spread across the Indian states of Uttarakhand, Himachal and Sikkim, the best treks in May are a stunning combination of natural adventures and local cultural traditions. Listen to fascinating myths and legends of the most popular Himalayan treks as you trek across villages, temples, and sacred pilgrimage destinations at Har ki Dun, Kheerganga, Gaumukh Tapovan and Triund. Admire the most well-known Himalayan peaks like Mt Everest and Mt Kanchenjunga on the Everest Base Camp Trek, Goecha La Trek and Dzongri Trek as you witness the beauty of iconic passes and valleys, like the Hampta Pass and Lahaul-Spiti valley on the Hampta Pass and Sar Pass treks. Moderate temperatures, mild weather conditions, clear skies and bright sunshine make May one of the best months to explore the mesmerising beauty of India’s world-renowned treks.

If you are looking for an offbeat Himalayan trek, the Dayara Bugyal trek is the perfect experience for you. One of the unique Uttarakhand treks in May, the trail is an easy-to-moderate trek that sees few trekkers despite its proximity to Gangotri. The six-day trek has stunning views of the Himalayas, as well as lush meadows and mesmerising campsites. Dayara Bugyal is highly suitable for amateur trekkers and families with kids.

Renowned as the oldest Himalayan trek, Har ki Dun ranks among the most popular treks in May. With its ancient cultural traditions, the trail attracts trekkers looking for an adventure filled with fascinating sights and stories. Cross old villages that date back many centuries as you interact with locals and admire the mighty mountains, valleys, and vibrant flora of Har ki Dun. Ranked as a moderate-difficulty trek, the Har ki Dun trek lasts eight days.

Among the many culturally vibrant Himalayan treks is the Kheerganga trek, one of the best treks in Himachal in May. From stunning meadows, pine forests, and small villages to mesmerising waterfalls and massive mountains, trek through the Parvati valley on this three-day experience. Witness the beauty of a cross-cultural experience as you watch ancient Indian traditions mix up with the hippie culture. Admire the exquisite Parvati Kund as you listen to fascinating stories from your guide.

Embark on one of the most beautiful Uttarakhand treks in May as you go for the Rupin Pass trek. Ranked as a moderate-to-difficult trek, the seven-day experience is among the classic Himalayan treks with tons of surprises in store for trekkers. Explore the mesmerising beauty of the Himalayas with every step as you trek through hanging villages, glacial meadows, valleys, snowfields, waterfalls, snow bridges, forests, and the serene Rupin River.

The eight-day Bali Pass trek is among the most stunning Uttarakhand treks in May and promises glimpses into the raw, unexplored side of the Himalayan ranges. Ranked as a difficult trek suitable only for experienced trekkers, Bali Pass is among the most thrilling Himalayan treks. Trek along the Tons and Ruinsara rivers and through the Ruinsara Valley and Devsu Thach. Enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks of Kalanag, Bandarpoonch, and Swargarohini on the trek.

Explore one of the most thrilling treks in Himachal in May, the Hampta Pass Trek or Himachal’s Valley of Flowers. Witness the beauty of the vibrant and lively Kullu Valley and the rugged Lahaul Valley at this moderate-level trek. Experience six days of pure Himalayan magic as you trek amidst snow-covered mountains and green valleys. And as you reach the other end of Hampta Pass, be awed by the amazing views of the Spiti Valley.

Renowned as one of the best treks in May, witness fifteen major Himalayan peaks from close quarters on the Goecha La Trek. From seeing the sunrise on Mt Kanchenjunga to mesmerising views of the Singalila Range from the Dzongri Top, get close to the iconic Nepalese mountain treks at the Goecha La Trek. With a moderate-to-difficult ranking, the trek also offers beautiful walks through rhododendron forests and sights of the stunning Samiti Lake.

A moderate-to-difficult trek, Buran Ghati is among the most beautiful Himalayan adventures and one of the best treks to do in May. Explore the most stunning Himalayan forests and the lush meadows of Dayara as you sit back and relax under the stars at mesmerising campsites. An unmissable highlight of the trek is the pass crossing, where trekkers can witness snow even in the summer months at a height of 15,000 feet.

Witness the glacier which gives the mighty River Ganges life, the Gaumukh glacier, as you embark on the eight-day Gaumukh Tapovan trek. Ranked as a moderate-to-difficult trek, the trails also are the only way to witness Mt Shivling up close from base to summit. Other prominent sights include the famous Mt Meru, as well as the Bhagirathi River that originates at the Gaumukh glacier. Marvel at Mt Shivling at sunrise as you complete your trekking adventure.

Embark on one of the easiest Himalayan treks at the Triund Trek, ranked among the best treks to do in May. Indulge in stunning views of the Dhauladhar range and Kangra valley on this two-day trek, which falls in the easy-to-moderate range of the trek difficulty scale. From beautiful pine, rhododendron, and coniferous forests to old villages, Triund has numerous fascinating stories and legends associated with the trek trails and highlights.

If you are looking for the ultimate Himalayan trekking adventure, nothing compares to the Everest Base Camp Trek. The two-week adventure, which ranks among the most thrilling and difficult Himalayan treks to do in May, attracts mountaineers from across the globe with its never-seen-before trails and stunning scenery. Admire the one-of-their-kind views of the world’s highest mountain as you trek through green farmlands, forests, and rivers to reach the barren, glacial landscape higher up.

Climb up to one of the highest peaks of the Himalayan Pir Panjal range as you embark on the Friendship Peak trek, which is among the most popular treks in Himachal in May. As you trek through the adventurous trails over a period of nine days, witness the stunning beauty of the mountains, forests, streams, and the beautiful Solang Valley. Admire views of the Hanuman Tibba, Shitidhar, Deo Tibba and Indra Asan on this trek.

Experience the mesmerising beauty of Sikkimese Himalayan treks as you go for the Dzongri Trek, one of the best treks in May. Ranked as a moderate-difficulty trek, the adventure lasts ten days and covers Himalayan peaks like Mt Kabru, Mt Kanchenjunga, Mt Ratong, Mt Narsingh, Mt Pandim, and Mt Koktang. Walk through the rugged trails of this short high-elevation trek and be awed by the lush valleys, waterfalls, and streams here.

One of the best treks in May is the Sar Pass Trek, which traverses through the Parvati Valley along the mighty Parvati River. The five-day trek ranks as a moderate-difficulty trail, which offers magnificent views of the Himalayan mountains, forests, meadows, valleys, and ice-covered landscapes. Witness the frozen Sar Lake which gives the trek its name, along with exploring the local cultural traditions of the region with your highly experienced guides.

Ranked among the best treks in May, the Indrahar Pass Trek ranks among the moderate-to-difficult Himalayan adventures every trekker needs to experience. One of the most mesmerising treks on offer in Himachal, the four-day trek covers trails that have many steep ascents and sharp climbs. Admire the stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountain range, green valleys, and vibrant flora as you spot the beautiful pristine lakes of Mankini and Kareri.

Why May is the Best Time for Trekking?

Treks in May are popular for a variety of reasons, the most prominent being the moderate temperatures in the Himalayan region. While much of India faces the peak summer season in May, the Himalayan ranges of Uttarakhand, Himachal, and Sikkim witness the beginning of the peak trekking season. Bright sunshine, clear skies, melting snow cover, and abundant greenery can be experienced on the trekking trails in May when the average temperatures hover around 25 degrees at the base camp and go lower as you climb higher up.

Trekkers can also encounter snow on some high-altitude Himalayan treks to do in May. The night temperatures are slightly cool while the day temperatures are warmer, making it ideal for trekking in mild weather conditions. As summer starts in the region in May, trekkers can still witness the remnants of vibrant spring blossoms and admire the flowing streams and rivers as glaciers melt in summer.

The Himalayas are renowned as snow-covered mountains, but when you go for treks in May, you would be able to witness a pristine landscape covered with lush greenery and vibrant flora. The lush green meadows of the best treks in May are a prominent highlight and draw trekkers from across the world. Admire the picture-perfect views of the mighty Himalayas rising beyond the vast green meadows and lush valleys. From exotic wildflowers to pine, oak, rhododendron, and coniferous forests, the beautiful flora one can witness on these Himalayan treks is unmatched. As the snow melts and temperatures get warmer in May, the floral blossoms bloom and spread colours and sweet fragrances throughout the Himalayan trails, making it the best time to go trekking for nature lovers. Trekkers can also indulge in local folklore and traditions as they learn about unique herbs and plants from their guide and locals.

The best treks in May offer the perfect weather conditions for adventurers. From bright sunshine to clear blue skies, as the summer season begins in the Himalayas, trekkers can experience the most popular trails in comfortable conditions.

The precipitation in May is low, which means trekkers can climb through dry lands without worrying about wet patches and sudden rainfall. As the nights are cool and days warm, walking through the terrain and resting at campsites become pleasant experiences. From lush green meadows and dense oak, pine, rhododendron and coniferous forests, trekkers can witness Himalayan flora at its most vibrant as they blossom fully in the warm weather of May. While the lower reaches have temperatures averaging around 25 degrees Celsius, it gets cooler as you climb higher up, with some high-altitude treks even having snow in the higher reaches. Witness the best of the Himalayan treks as you go for an adventure in the warm and dry weather of May.

FAQs About Treks in May

Which himalayan trek is best to do in may.

The best treks in May include the Dayara Bugyal Trek, Har ki Dun Trek, Kheerganga Trek, Rupin Pass Trek, Bali Pass Trek, Hampta Pass Trek, Goecha La Trek, Buran Ghati Trek, Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, Triund Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek, Friendship Peak Trek, Dzongri Trek, Sar Pass Trek, and the Indrahar Pass Trek.

Which Himalayan trek has snow in May?

The treks in May that have snow to offer to trekkers are those with altitudes higher than 13,000 feet. The Himalayan treks where one can find snow in May are Buran Ghati Trek, Goecha La Trek, Rupin Pass Trek, Gaumukh Tapovan Trek, and the Hampta Pass Trek.

Can you trek in Nepal in May?

Yes, you can trek in Nepal in May. Nepal is much sought-after for its iconic trekking trails that take trekkers close to the mighty Himalayan ranges, and May is among the best months to embark on such treks. The weather in Nepal in May is moderate, with mild temperatures, minimal rainfall, and fewer crowds.

Which treks in Himachal are best to do in May?

The best treks in Himachal in May include Kheerganga Trek, Hampta Pass Trek, Buran Ghati Trek, Triund Trek, Friendship Peak Trek, Sar Pass Trek, and Indrahar Pass Trek.

Which treks in Uttarakhand are best to do in May?

The best Uttarakhand treks in May include the Dayara Bugyal Trek, Har ki Dun Trek, Rupin Pass Trek, Bali Pass Trek, and Gaumukh Tapovan Trek.

State Wise Treks

Challenging treks in himalayas, treks in summers, treks in winters, treks in monsoon, treks in autumn.

The content and images used on this site are copyright protected and copyrights vests with the respective owners.

© 2024 www.heyhimalayas.com All rights reserved.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

27 Best Places to Visit in May in the USA

Published: March 29, 2022

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Angela Magsajo

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips
• United States
• Washington, D.C.

On the hunt for the best places to visit in May in the USA? The United States is home to a plethora of travel destinations where you can enjoy the last month of spring and welcome in the summer months. Enjoy the great outdoors and marvel at the scenic beauty of the most beautiful states in the US ! Follow the trails of the best national and state parks in the country. Lounge by the shores of world-class beach destinations. Meanwhile, city lovers will revel in the bustling metropolitan atmosphere of U.S. cities.

Indeed, whatever fun and adventure you’re looking for, you can find them all in the country! Here are the 27 best places to visit in the US in May!

Family-Friendly Places to Visit in May in the USA 

1. disney world, florida.

Photo by danuv on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 69.4°F (20.78°C) and high of 86.2°F (30.11°C); precipitation of 3.23″ (82mm). 

Reasons to Visit in May: Moderate crowds and EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.

Looking for the best family vacation spots in May? You certainly can’t go wrong with the most magical place on Earth! Walt Disney World in Florida boasts an extensive list of rides, attractions, shows, and events that will surely entertain the whole family. Visiting in May means you’re just in the middle of springtime festivities, including the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. Stroll through family-friendly exhibits and gardens with breathtaking topiary sculptures of your favorite Disney characters. 

2. San Diego, California 

Photo by Nathan Rupert on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 56.3°F (13.5°C) and high of 67.6°F (19.8°C); precipitation of 0.39″ (10mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Vibrant Cinco de Mayo and Mother’s Day celebrations, and cool weather.

Besides being one of the best places to visit in December in the USA , San Diego is also an excellent destination during May. America’s Finest City is a hotspot for family-friendly attractions and is likewise among the top destinations on the West Coast to celebrate Mother’s Day! Help moms unwind by booking her a relaxing day at the spa. Spoil her to a Mother’s Day brunch at the city’s finest restaurants with wondrous views. It’s around this time as well, where you’ll find the 50 acres worth of flower fields at the Carlsbad Ranch in full bloom. 

Moreover, San Diego is one of the best places to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Experience traditional Mexican culture at the historic Old Town San Diego neighborhood. Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine while you enjoy live entertainment, including Latino bands and wrestling matches that will surely enthrall the entire family! 

3. Los Angeles, California 

Photo by Matthew LeJune on Unsplash

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 56.3°F (13.5°C) and high of 72.9°F (22.7°C); precipitation of 0.24″ (6mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: W hale watching season, fewer crowds, and cooler temperatures.

Another West Coast destination you should visit in May is the City of Angels. While Los Angeles is a year-round destination for many, you will be able to avoid the summer crowds in May. Plus, moderate temperatures of around the 60s during this month mean you can still enjoy outdoor activities, such as heading to the beach, hitting up the pier in Santa Monica, and visiting LA theme parks. It’s around this time you’ll find different species of whales migrating through LA waters.  As such, you can easily add whale watching to your itinerary of fun things to do in Los Angeles in May! 

4. Big Sky, Montana 

Photo by Curtis on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 30.6°F (-0.78°C) and high of 52°F(11.11°C); precipitation of  2.91″ (74mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Wildflowers in full bloom, wildlife roaming freely, and backcountry skiing.

Big Sky is among the fun places to travel in the US for families who greatly love cross-country skiing or snowboarding. Typically a winter vacation destination, it’s likewise one of the best places to visit in May in the USA. The last month of spring falls within the “mud season” or the off-season between winter and summer. This is the time when you’ll find wildflowers in full bloom and wildlife roaming freely. Moreover, you can find some of the best mountain bike trails in the U.S. in the area, ranging from scenic routes to rigorous terrains. Despite the majority of the snow melting away, backcountry skiing remains a popular activity in May. 

5. Salt Lake City

Photo by Sergey Novikov on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 43.7°F (6.5°C) and high of 64.2°F (17.9°C); precipitation of 0.31″ (8mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Bird watching opportunities and the Living Traditions Festival.

The list of fun things to do in Salt Lake City doesn’t just include hitting the slopes of the city’s world-class ski resorts. Nature dwellers can visit hiking trails and take part in lake activities at the Great Salt Lake without worrying about the hordes of other tourists. May means spring migration is in full swing, so you can expect plenty of birding opportunities.  

Pleasant temperatures around the 50s make visiting the city’s iconic and historic landmarks, such as the Salt Lake Temple, more enjoyable. Furthermore, the Living Traditions Festival held in May is a three-day event that celebrates the numerous communities that call Salt Lake City home. 

6. Yosemite National Park

Photo by 12019 on Pixabay

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 41.5°F (5.3°C) and high of 72.9°F (22.7°C); 

precipitation of 1.47″ (37.3mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Wildlife-spotting, several snow-free tails, and full flow rate of waterfalls and rivers.

Generally, many consider Spring the best time to visit Yosemite National Park in California. However, you may still find some roads and hiking trails closed due to snow during early spring. It isn’t until late May when the snow starts to melt, though some trails may still be wet. Cyclists can enjoy biking through the scenic trail in the Yosemite Valley, which is already snow-free by this time.

Additionally, countless waterfalls and rivers of Yosemite come back to life at this time of the year. You shouldn’t miss visiting the Yosemite Falls – the tallest waterfall in the park. River fishing season is also at its peak around this month, with different trout species swimming in the waters.

7. Shenandoah National Park

Photo by Vladimir Grablev on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 46°F (7.78°C) and high of 64°F(17.78°C); 3.5” (88.9mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Ranger programs and Rapidan Camp tours; birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Located in West Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is among the best vacation spots in the US for those seeking outdoor adventure. Stretching nearly 200,000 acres, it boasts soaring cliffs, pastoral fields, and cascading waterfalls. However, the 105-mile long scenic drive along Skyline Drive is undeniably one of the park’s most popular features. If you want to go on foot, there are over 500 miles of hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy. Ranger programs and Rapidan Camp tours begin again in May.

Families with older teens can try their hands at conquering the Old Rag Mountains, which tower over 3,000 feet. Meanwhile, birdwatching enthusiasts who visit during springtime can catch an array of bird species. You can spot other forms of wildlife around May, including deer, bobcats, butterflies, and squirrels. Also, make sure to watch out for snakes and black bears.

Photo by Richard Schneider on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 50.4°F (10.2°C) and high of 61°F (16.1°C); precipitation of 4.61″ (117mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Chicago Riverwalk season-opening, street fairs, and music festivals.

Considered by many as one of the best cities to visit in the USA , Chicago is arguably among the top tourist destinations regardless of the month. However, the Windy City truly comes alive during spring. And the month of May especially sees plenty of street fairs and festivities.

During May, you’ll find the Chicago Riverwalk bustling with activity, yet still with manageable crowds. Couples can wine and dine at one of the dozens of restaurants in the area that serve delectable meals, including the famous Chicago-style deep-dish pizza . For families with toddlers and kids, there’s no better Chicago destination than the Navy Pier, which is home to several fun attractions and rides that little ones will surely enjoy!  Moreover, Chicago is among the good vacation spots for music lovers, with several music festivals throughout the city.

9. San Francisco, California

Photo by Sur. on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 50.5°F (10.3°C) and high of 65.7°F (18.7°C); precipitation of 0.35″ (9mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Several sporting events, lively Cinco de Mayo celebration, and other street festivals.

With iconic structures such as the Golden Gate Bridge , the Painted Ladies, and a vibrant hipster culture, San Francisco is a famous tourist destination all year-round . San Francisco in May, however, is a mecca for avid sports enthusiasts. The Golden Gate City is brimming with numerous sporting events that you surely wouldn’t want to miss. From baseball season in full swing to basketball and hockey playoffs, SF is the place to be if you want to witness all the best action live!

Furthermore, art and culture fall under the limelight in May, with several festivals and street fairs highlighting the diverse culture and ideas that call this West Coast city home. Notably, you wouldn’t want to miss Cinco de Mayo . The city’s Mexican and Latino community takes to the streets of Valencia Street and showcases their culture and heritage through food, music, and dance performances.

Scenic Places To Visit In May in the USA

10. grand canyon.

Photo by John Fowler on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 60°F (15.56 °C) and high of 90°F (32.22 °C); precipitation of 0.33″ (8.4mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Mule riding at the North Rim, low chances of rain, and pleasant daytime temperature. 

With its deep gorges, stunning rock formations , and steep cliffs, Grand Canyon has been a popular day-trip destination for generations. The canyon spans over 200 miles and is split into three sections — the North Rim, South Rim, and the West Rim.

The North Rim is the most rugged side of the canyon, with only a few facilities, while the South Rim is more developed and sees more crowds. The West Rim is where you’ll find unique attractions such as the glass walkway that soars over 4,000 feet above sea level.

While you’ll never run out of hiking opportunities here, riding a mule is one of the popular ways to explore the canyon’s wonders. Mule trips in the South Rim are offered all year-round , but it isn’t until mid-May that you can explore the trails of the North Rim on mule-back. Furthermore, traveling to the canyon in May means fewer chances of rain with pleasant daytime temperatures in the mid-70s to 80s. 

11. Joshua Tree National Park

Photo by Beau Rogers on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 63°F (17.22°C) and high of 89°F (31.67 °C); precipitation of 0.04” (1.16mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Wild desert flowers in bloom and moderate to cool temperatures.

Situated in the desert plateaus of Southern California , Joshua Tree National Park boasts one of the most extraordinary landscapes in America. Visitors can explore nearly 800,000 acres of land that features astonishing rock formations and unique Yucca trees. Visiting the park in May means moderate temperatures of around 70s, with the desert flowers in full bloom. At nighttime, temperatures can drop quickly. Make sure to bring with you extra layers if you plan on camping. Early to mid-May may be part of peak season, but visiting during the latter part of the month can help you avert crowds. 

12. Yellowstone National Park

Photo by Evan on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 28°F (-2.2°C) and high of 52°F (11.1°C); precipitation of 2.47″ (62.7mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Shoulder season with smaller crowds.

With its steep canyons, incredible summits, majestic waterfalls, and pristine lakes, Yellowstone National Park is truly one of the most beautiful places in the US. Plus, its collection of hot springs and geysers is among the most bewitching natural wonders in the world. The month of May is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park . Early May is still considered shoulder season, though, you will see an increase in visitors at the latter part of the month. The weather and temperature can be rather unpredictable, however, with surprise snowfall or rainstorms even in late spring. Thus, don’t forget to layer up and bring rain gear. 

13. Glacier National Park, Montana

Photo by ricktravel on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 35.2°F (1.8°C) and high of 59.5°F (15.3°C); precipitation of 1.1″ (28mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities and snow-covered trails.  

Nestled in northwestern Montana, Glacier National Park is a nature enthusiast’s paradise. While the park is open all seasons, visiting in May means you’ll still find blankets of snow covering the area. With that in mind, not all trails and roads are open to visitors — this includes the popular Going-to-the-Sun Road. Don’t fret, though, since there is still an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy.

The park boasts over 700 miles of hiking trails. Start the outdoor adventure by taking a short hike leading to some of the most beautiful lakes in the country – including Grinnell Lake with turquoise waters. Alternatively, you can head to one of the park’s wide-open meadows. Expect a good deal of wildlife encounters during your visit — deer, mountain goats, marmots, and bears are common sights in the area. The cool Glacier National Park weather in May is great for camping, as well. You can choose from 13 campgrounds to sleep under the stars. 

14. Blue Ridge Parkway

Photo by Dave Allen on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 45°F (7.2°C) and high of 64°F (17.8°C); precipitation of 6.05″ (153.6mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Wildlife-spotting such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and black bears.

Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile route within the hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Besides being a scenic drive connecting Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s also a great road-trip destination on its own. You’ll encounter an abundance of natural wonders as you drive across this winding road between Virginia and North Carolina. 

Go on foot and explore historic hydrological and geological features, such as the oldest river in North America surrounded by the oldest mountains in the world. The highest waterfall within the Rocky Mountains can also be found along the parkway. Meanwhile, daredevils out there can challenge themselves to conquer the dramatic summits of the highest peak of the Appalachian Mountains .

In addition, visiting around May means you have a higher chance of encountering wildlife that calls the area home. This includes the likes of white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears. Be sure to bring extra layers of jackets and sweaters since the temperature and weather in the area can change rapidly.

15. Grand Teton National Park

Photo by Mr. Nixter on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 34°F (1.11°C) and high of 60°F(15.56 °C); precipitation of 1.8” (45.72mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Trails, roads, campgrounds, and other facilities are open. Park ranger programs are available.

Grand Teton National Park is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA for those seeking tranquility amid the great wilderness. It features granite mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and lush meadows with plenty of wildlife roaming the area. This national park in Wyoming is a popular destination during May when most trails and facilities are open and available to enjoy. 

Some of the outdoor activities you can enjoy during this month include backpacking and mountaineering. Fishing and boating seasons begin in early May, however, waters can still be a bit cold and muddy with fast currents. Most camping sites are already open around this time. Meanwhile, for those on the hunt for more relaxing activities, pick from a number of scenic drives that provide panoramic views of the Teton Range, the majority of which are accessible by May. It’s around this time that ranger-guided programs are once again available. 

16. Acadia National Park

Photo by Zack Frank on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 30°F (-1.11°C) and high of 70°F (21°C); precipitation of 3.4” (86.36mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Birding and whale-watching season. Less foggy than other spring months. 

Another one of the must-see places in the USA in May is the Acadia National Park . Dubbed as the Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast, the park marries a coastal and inland landscape, with plenty of breathtaking natural wonders. It features cobble beaches, wetlands, meadows, mountains, granite domes, and forests. Weaved into this landscape are hiking trails , rustic carriage roads, and historic motor roads.

The area is teeming with several bird species around May. Within the meadows and forest, you can catch a glimpse of songbirds. Meanwhile, around the coasts and shorelines, you’ll find migratory seabirds. Head over to Bar Harbor to get a chance to see whales and seals in the surrounding waters.

The Maine coastal climate affects the weather and temperature of the park. Visitors can expect ice storms during early May and frequent rain showers throughout the month. An upside is that you don’t have to worry about fog blurring the view during your May visit.

17. Arches National Park

Photo by Bill Devlin on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 51.1°F (10.6°C) and high of 82°F (27.8°C); precipitation of 8.74″ (222mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Comfortable weather, desert flowers in bloom, and camping grounds are open.

A trip to the Beehive State isn’t complete without exploring one of Utah’s national parks . The state is home to five national parks, and each one boasts some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes. If you’re not sure which one to visit, consider spending a day at Arches National Park . Home to ancient sandstone formations and desert flowers , the park is one of the most interesting places to visit in the country. You can easily marvel at these towering geological wonders from your car during a scenic drive. However, to better appreciate their beauty, follow one of the park’s hiking trails . 

Admittedly, May is right in the middle of the park’s peak season, but you can avoid large crowds when you arrive during early mornings or late afternoons. Early mornings not only mean shorter lines and easier parking but cooler temperatures as well. On the other hand, late afternoons are the perfect time to catch the so-called “golden hour.” The softer rays of the sun with marvelous red rock formations as the backdrop create picturesque scenery. As such, don’t forget to bring your camera and selfie stick ! If you want a more intimate connection with nature, reserve a camping spot at the Devils Garden Campground and take in the spellbinding beauty of the starry night sky.

Best Places to Visit for Memorial Day Weekend

18. washington d.c..

Photo by Mathieu Marquer on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 62°F (16.67 °C) and high of 79°F (26.11°C); precipitation of 3.4” (86.36mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Large Memorial Day parade and celebration.

There’s no place more patriotic than the nation’s capital. If you’re looking for Memorial Day weekend destinations, Washington D.C. is certainly among the best. Witness the largest Memorial Day parade in the country, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators each year. Afterward, pay respects to the fallen men and women who sacrificed for the country by visiting the numerous memorials and monuments at National Mall or Arlington National Cemetery.

Memorial Day weekend is likewise a great time to welcome summer, but without the season’s warm and muggy weather. Head over to Georgetown where you can rent a kayak and take in the sights along the Potomac River. The National Air and Space Museum along Jefferson Drive is another popular destination. People of all ages can learn about aviation and space exploration. The best part? Admission is always free!

19. Charleston, South Carolina

Photo by Maciek Lulko on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 68.2°F (20.1°C) and high of 79.5°F (26.4°C); precipitation of 2.87″ (73mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Warm and sunny weather and fewer crowds at the beaches.

May is one of the best times to visit Charleston, just as long as you can handle the heat. With it being so close to summer, the South Carolina weather around this time is typically warm and sunny. This is especially true during Memorial Day weekend. Marking the start of beach season in the city, you’ll find plenty of locals and tourists heading to nearby beaches in late May. You can easily soak up the warm sun while still avoiding the extreme heat and humidity that the summer months bring. Want to immerse yourself in the city’s southern charm? Head over to the Charleston Tea Plantation ! Enjoy a lovely afternoon picnic in the green fields or hop aboard a trolley to take in the amazing scenery of the plantation.

20. San Antonio, Texas

Photo by Ken Lund on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 67.3°F (19.6°C) and high of 85.6°F (29.8°C); precipitation of 3.66″ (93mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Comfortable weather and lower accommodation rates.

The Lone Star State is undoubtedly one of the best states to visit if you seek cheap places to travel to in the US. After all, this is where you can find several free and cheap tourist attractions, such as the Old Tunnel State Park and Houston Arboretum. Spend Memorial Day weekend over in San Antonio , where you’ll find many attractions and plenty of outdoor barbecues. Situated at the end of Texas Hill Country, the city is where you’ll find historical sites such as the Alamo, Mission San Jose, and the River Walk. All of which are free to tour!

The city typically receives lots of sunshine in late May but is still generally cooler than the hotter summer temperature. As such, it’s the ideal time to explore the outdoors and visit family-friendly spots.

21. New York City, New York

Photo by Charley Lhasa on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of  54.1°F (12.3°C) and high of 68°F (20°C); 3.39″ (86mm). 

Reasons to Visit in May: Pleasant weather with flora and foliage in full bloom.

New York City is home to iconic and historic attractions from Broadway and the George Washington Bridge to the American Museum of Natural History and the Statue of Liberty. Arguably, the Big Apple is one of the best cities to visit in the USA. The colorful flora and foliage of May only amplify the allure of the city. Visiting New York City in early May is the perfect time to admire cherry blossoms and botanic gardens . What’s more, with the average temperatures hovering in the 60s, you can leisurely stroll through Central Park without getting overly warm.

If you’re headed to the city during Memorial Day weekend, make sure to visit the birthplace of the holiday — Waterloo. Nestled in New York’s Finger Lakes area, there are plenty of locations in Waterloo wherein visitors can pay tribute to the sacrifices of fallen soldiers. This includes the National Memorial Day Museum and the American Civil War Memorial. 

22. Las Vegas, Nevada

Photo by Thomas Hawk on Flickr

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 61.7°F (16.5°C) and high of 80.6°F (27°C); precipitation of 0.24″ (6mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Slightly cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.

Looking for cool places to visit for your Memorial Day Weekend? Well, you can’t get any cooler than Sin City itself! With its casinos and vivid nightlife with live music and entertainment, it’s safe to say that Las Vegas is among the top party destinations in the country. Party at one of the city’s pool clubs, indulge in a variety of mouthwatering cuisine and don’t forget to check out the live concerts and shows.

You can always rely on the Las Vegas public transportation to get around the city. However, for those looking for a different vantage point, a chopper ride is certainly the way to go. Aboard a helicopter, you can marvel at the beauty of the Las Vegas Strip illuminated by all its blinding lights. You can also catch a glimpse of the nearby desert landscape that perfectly contrasts the glitz and glamor of the city. Furthermore, the nearby national parks such as the Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park are great day trip destinations to add to your itinerary while in Vegas.

23. New Orleans

Photo by trongnguyen on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of  71.2°F (21.8°C) and high of 82.9°F (28.3°C); 0.75″ (19mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Discounted deals at museums and other attractions. End of crawfish season.

Mardi Gras isn’t the only celebration that you should look out for in New Orleans. The Big Easy is likewise a great destination to spend Memorial Day weekend. Start by honoring the country’s fallen soldiers by visiting the National WWII Museum, which offers free admissions to veterans of World War II. Meanwhile, active or retired military personnel and their spouses receive discounted admissions. Afterward, enjoy a picnic with friends and family at one of the city’s parks and green spaces.

Head over to the French Quarter if you’re looking for a more festive scene. One of New Orleans’ most historic neighborhoods, the streets are lined with stunning architecture, restaurants, modern boutiques, and antique stores. The neighborhood boasts a lively nightlife scene, as well. Visiting New Orleans in May means you can still indulge in boiled crawfish before peak season ends. Furthermore, since several hotels typically offer discounted deals to welcome summer, the city is a cheap place to travel to in the US around this time.

24. Palm Springs

Photo by Cesar Cid on Unsplash

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 55.9°F (13.3°C) and 78.4°F (25.8°C); precipitation of 0.12″ (3mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: The Annual Memorial Day Flower Drop.

Palm Springs is one of the must-visit destinations during Memorial Day Weekend. A long weekend in this East Coast oasis means plenty of parties, drinks, live music, and entertainment. The weather in Palm Springs in late May grows warmer, and as the temperatures rise, locals hit the poolside to cool off. But lounging by the pool with a cocktail in hand isn’t the only activity you can take part in. Head over to the Palm Springs Air Museum and attend the Annual Memorial Day Flower Drop. Witness as thousands of red and white carnations fall from the sky via a helicopter to commemorate the country’s fallen soldiers.

25. Miami Beach

Photo by jovannig on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 77°F (25°C) and high of 82°F (27.8°C); precipitation of 1.77″ (45mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates.

Miami Beach is among the most popular summer and spring break destinations in the country thanks to its buzzing nightlife. Unfortunately, it can get crowded, especially around these times. Visiting Miami Beach in late May means you can still enjoy its gorgeous beaches and warm weather, without having to elbow your way through a cocktail bar. Plus, you can find several reasonable rates for your accommodations. While you’re in here, make sure you head over to South Beach. A party beach to its core, it’s often dubbed as one of the top places to visit in the US if you’re looking for the best nightclubs and bars!

26. Mackinac Island

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 41.4°F (5.2°C) and high of 55°F (12.8°C); precipitation of 1.69″ (43mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: beginning  of the tourist season but with still smaller crowds.

Want a more laid-back Memorial Day Weekend celebration? Mackinac Island is the destination for you! Referred to as the jewel of the Great Lakes, the unspoiled beauty of this island is the perfect destination for couples who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. You won’t find any cars or chain hotels on the island. Instead, you’ll find horse-drawn carriages, elegant architecture, unique boutiques, cozy inns, and diverse food offerings. You and your significant other can easily explore the stunning vistas and historical landmarks of this Northern Michigan island on foot, on a bike, or even on a romantic boat ride.

The island takes a hiatus during winter and comes out of hibernation in spring. Although, some shops and attractions may still be closed around the early months. It isn’t until May that the island is truly awake, with spring wildflowers fully in bloom and attractions entirely operational. Furthermore, crowds on the island around this time are generally smaller, thus, you won’t have trouble finding discounted lodging deals and rates! 

27. Virginia Beach

Photo by Vadim on Adobe Stock

Average Temperature and Precipitation: Low of 62.1°F (16.7°C) and high of 71.2°F (21.8°C); precipitation of 1.18″ (30mm).

Reasons to Visit in May: Peak strawberry season and avoid hurricane season.

There’s a lot to love about Virginia Beach. This coastal city along the Mid-Atlantic boasts an extensive list of sights and activities that keep locals and visitors entertained, no matter the season. But it’s around late spring that you can experience the coastal front beach scene in full swing! The best part? You don’t have to deal with the enormous crowds, surge charges, and humid temperatures that summer typically brings. Additionally, you can avoid hurricane season when visiting Virginia Beach in May, which usually happens around June and November. 

The beach isn’t the only thing you should look forward to during your stay. The annual Pungo Strawberry Festival also takes place around Memorial Day Weekend. Spoil your taste buds with delicacies made from fresh strawberries sourced from local farms. Live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a parade are just some of the other highlights of the event.

Plan Your Trip to the Best US Vacations Spots in May Today  

Regardless if you want to visit fun cities with bustling nightlife or small towns with relaxing atmospheres, you’ll never run out of the best places to visit in May in the USA. Visiting in May ensures you are welcomed by pleasant weather, slimmer crowds, and more affordable vacation packages. There’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy! We hope this list helped you decide where to go on vacation for the month of May.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Top 20 Awesome Places to Visit in May in the USA

With winter entirely over, longer days, and summer just around the corner, I think spring is one of the best times to explore the diverse landscapes – with warm weather but before the worst of the crowds arrive.

From my time spent traveling around, here are my favorite spots to discover during this month…

1. Texas Hill Country

This region is a beautiful mix of natural landmarks, picturesque small towns, and historical attractions, and I’m a huge fan! 

Texas Hill Country is packed with rich history and culture and filled with scenic rivers, lovely lakes, rugged terrain, and beautiful flora. There are plenty of outdoor adventures here, from hiking to wildlife spotting.

Temperatures warm the state in the shoulder season from late March to this month, with warm sunshine and an average of around 85 degrees Fahrenheit during spring.

I highly recommend not missing the Kerrville Folk Festival or, if you arrive early enough, the Strawberry Festival, hiking, biking, floating, or soaking in the warm Texas sunshine before the searing summers start! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 160 Ingram Hills Rd, Ingram, TX 78025, Phone: +1 830-367-2151
• Average temperature – 30 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting the magical enchanted rock formed from pink granite (one of the largest in the country).
• Discovering what is in the Cave Without a Name – a unique spot 80 feet below the ground.
• Stopping at the many quirky roadside attractions! 

2. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Renowned for its natural beauty and Civil War history, Shenandoah National Park offers a unique backcountry experience with an accessible location.

Whether you want to chill or indulge in outdoor activities, I love that this park has everything! Wildlife to spot here includes beautiful black bears, coyotes, white-tailed deer, big brown bats, bobcats, and spotted skunks, but I suggest being a bit careful when trying to spot them! 

Surprisingly, the park is sleepy during spring, with wildflowers popping and blooming azaleas and cool temperatures away from the crowds. April and this month are the best times for hiking, bird watching, and star-gazing.

The snow is almost melting, temperatures are relatively warm, campgrounds are open, and you can explore the park in early spring without waiting in traffic lines.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 17065 Skyline Drive, Front Royal, VA 22630
• Average temperature – 18 degrees
• Exploring the 105-mile Skyline Drive filled with scenic overlooks and Insta-worthy viewpoints.
• Hiking to the tallest waterfall in the park via Dark Hallow Falls trail (one of the most popular routes to take).
• Renting an E-bike and stopping off at a wine-tasting tour.

Book A Trip!

We can book your trip hopping around the USA’s beautiful places through our free, top-rated travel planning service !

3. Annapolis, Maryland

The capital city of Annapolis is a historical treasure combining a rich history and maritime charm. I honestly think the best time to explore the city is in the spring, when it is full of blossoms, the weather is mild, and the sailing season starts with colorful boats filling the waters! 

While spring highs might rise between the mid-60s and 70s, I personally think the temperatures are just right.

Spring fills the city with vibrant hues and outdoor festivals, and I highly recommend getting involved in as many as you can! 

Witness the May Day celebrations, visit the historic state capitol, or explore downtown; the lively city always greets me with open arms.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1 Dock St, Annapolis, MD 21401
• Average temperature – 24 degrees

My highlights…

• Hopping on a trolley tour around the city to see the gorgeous houses, major landmarks and views of the Severn River.
• Tasting craft beers alongside delicious food at the first nano brewery in Annapolis, Forward Brewing.
• Wandering through the shops located on Main Street, home to boutiques, galleries, and resturants.

4. Yosemite National Park, California

I love Yosemite National Park! I love its beautiful waterfalls, towering granite monoliths, deep valleys, giant sequoia groves and panoramic views. When I visited, I couldn’t quite believe it existed; yes, it is that special! 

As well as being a mecca for daredevil rock climbers and nature lovers, the stunningly rugged landscape comes alive in spring when the waterfalls are at their peak, wildflowers are in bloom, and the temperatures are very pleasant (although nights can be chilly).

Early spring marks the opening of the iconic Tioga Pass, a scenic drive across the mountains and into the high country.

I highly recommend heading to the Cook’s Meadow Loop or Wawona Meadow Loop and watching the bright colors peek out of the snow.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 9035 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
• Average temperatures  – 23 degrees
• Hiring a bike from Yosemite Valley Lodge, cycling around the area and discovering scenic landscapes.
• Stopping at Tunnel View on State Highway 41 to see the picturesque and spectacular El Capitan, Bridalviel Falls, and Half Dome.
• Taking a trip to the iconic Yosemite Falls which is flowing at its highest point during this month.

5. Monterey, California

Brimming with beaches, coastal terrain, historic sites, and stunning scenery, the quaint and beautiful city of Monterey is filled with diverse marine ecosystems.

In my opinion, the best time to explore Monterey is between April and this month when temperatures average around 19 degrees, and there are far fewer crowds to contend with! 

With warmer temperatures, blossoming flowers, and moderate weather (with occasional rain), spring here has fewer crowds and eclectic food festivals.

I would suggest experiencing the magic by dining in its former warehouses turned resturants, visiting its iconic museums, exploring its captivating bay, and getting involved in its fun food festivals, including the Pebble Beach Food and Wine and the Artichoke Festival in Castroville.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 419 Webster St Suite 100, Monterey, CA 93940
• Average temperatures –  19 degrees
• Walking along the 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, which features beautiful views and flowers.
• Taking a guided tour around the fascinating historic buildings at the state park.
• Checking out the wonderful collection of art and exhibits at The Monterey Museum of Art . 

6. Austin, Texas

Austin experiences a high season twice a year, mainly during spring and fall when the temperatures are perfect (around 30 degrees). Though you’ll encounter some of the biggest crowds, Austin is affordable even during the busiest seasons.

While the weather is pleasantly mild with some moisture, gorgeous blooms can be seen throughout the region. Known for its sunny days and outdoor activities, I personally think this month is an ideal time to visit before the soaring Texan summer becomes barely tolerable!

I highly recommend exploring downtown Austin, taking a trip to Zilker Park, and swimming in the refreshing waters of Barton Springs! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 111 Congress Ave. Suite 700, Austin, TX 78701
• Average temperatures – 30 degrees
• Visiting the Mohawk located downtown, which hosts both touring and upcoming artists.
• Taking a dip in the natural Barton Springs Pool, which stays up to 68 degrees all year round.
• Learning how to do two-step dancing at Broken Spoke!

7. Block Island, Rhode Island

In my opinion, this is one of the prettiest locations in Rhode Island, Block Island, and makes for a fun and adventurous spring family-friendly break.

A beautiful place to explore year-round, Block Island offers gorgeous beaches, spectacular bluffs, and even a beautiful lighthouse, which I absolutely love (and so did my Instagram followers)! 

While the crowds drastically decrease in winter, the “shoulder season”, especially late May or early September, is the best time to plan a trip when the waters are warmer. The rates and restaurant wait times are also reasonable.

I recommend relaxing on Crescent Beach or exploring the Mohegan Bluffs; I promise you’ll be in a completely different state of mind and atmosphere.

Temperatures average around 16 degrees this month, so I suggest packing some warm clothes!

• Visitor’s Center Address:   4 Center Rd, New Shoreham, RI 02807
• Average temperature –  16 degrees
• Hiking up to Mohegan Bluffs for a magnificent view overlooking the beautiful ocean and landscape.
• Discovering an array of awesome shops in the town, including art galleries, clothes stores, and jewelry boutiques.
• Hiring a bike to explore the island and seeing the famous lighthouses, the Great Salt Pond, and nature trails.

8. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I personally think you can’t go wrong with visiting this cosmopolitan capital at any point in the year. Although I think this month is a great time to visit, it is lovely and not too hot yet, with reasonable hotel rates.

As the weather warms and the ground thaws, Phillies throng into the streets to welcome spring. With Spruce Street Harbor Park and beer gardens opening up, the city has a real buzz about the place in spring, as if it’s awakening from a slumber!

It’s prime time to see the city’s cherry blossom trees in Fairmont Park, and there are plenty of food fetes, blooming tulips, sporting events, and even park parties!

I would also highly recommend sightseeing all the incredible historic landmarks like Franklin Square, Liberty Bell, and Independence Hall and heading to hip neighborhoods like lively Fishtown or Rittenhouse Square for eclectic shopping, cool bars, and fabulous eats.

• Visitor Centre Address: 599 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
• Going on a guided walking tour of the city, where I discovered hidden gems, cool facts, and learned the area’s history.
• Checking out a fun baseball game!
• Buying a tourist pass and getting a discount on several main tourist attractions.

9. Bend, Oregon

Depending on the adventures you seek, there’s never a dull moment in Bend, Oregon. With average temperatures reaching the mid-80s and the landscape lush and green, I personally think Bend comes alive during spring and summer.

With clear skies, crisp mountain air, and blooming wildflowers during spring, Bend is the perfect destination for those who love adventures, and I recommend getting involved as much as possible to make the most of this place.

Activities include snowshoeing, mountain climbing, spelunking, caving, snowmobiling, kayaking, hiking, and even climbing lava tubes! The list goes on and on! 

I suggest hiking around the beautiful lakes, rock climbing at Smith Rock, and then tranquil paddleboarding along the Deschutes River. This place always restores my inner peace! 

• Visitors Center Address: 750 NW Lava Rd #160, Bend, OR 97703
• Average temperature  – 19 degrees
• Taking a trip to Newberry National Volcanic Monument and viewing the wonderful rock formations created from previous eruptions.
• Kayaking along the Deschutes River surrounded by gorgeous scenery.
• Hiking through the Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area is filled with exceptional views and breathtaking landscapes. 

10. Las Vegas and Grand Canyon

Often referred to as the ‘Entertainment Capital of the World’, Las Vegas is the ultimate playground of adventures, cuisines, and nightlife scenes, and when you visit, you’ll see why! 

While the Sin City sees an influx of visitors during winters and scorching summers, I honestly think the best time to visit the city is from March to this month and from September to November .

It’s still one of the warmest states to visit this month, but temperatures are much more manageable and hover around 32 degrees during the day.

You’ll find various events, hot (but not unbearable) daily temperatures, and fewer crowds. Nearby the city is the Grand Canyon, and I highly suggest a visit here—it’s a one-in-a-lifetime experience! 

Spring and fall make for an ideal trip to the canyon for hiking, skywalking, and discovering the wildflower blooms, but I would also highly recommend just enjoying the scenic vistas.

• Visitors Center Address: 495 S. Main St. Las Vegas, NV 89101
• Average temperatures – 32 degrees
• Capturing an unbelievable Instagrammable shot overlooking the Grand Canyon after hiking around the area.
• Checking out a fun show at MGM Grand.
• Take a road trip drive from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon.

11. Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Known as “The Oldest Summer Resort in America,” I personally think this pretty town in Carroll County, New Hampshire, is a fabulous destination for a weekend trip or spring break.

The temperatures in spring average around 19 degrees, so expect a pleasantly warm spring break without too much heat (and without the summer crowds)!

The town is nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee and is surrounded by unspoiled forests and mountains. Plenty of shopping, dining, entertainment, and other activities and attractions await.

I highly recommend visiting the Allen Albee Beach, the Wright Museum of WWII , the Cotton Valley Rail Trail, and the New Hampshire Boat Museum .

• Visitors Center Address: 84 South Main St, Wolfeboro, New Hampshire 03894
• Average temperatures  – 19 degrees
• Visiting Lake Wentworth where I went for a walk, relaxed on its shores, and swam in the waters.
• Spending the morning at one of their farmer’s markets and discovering many artisan, local produce, and hand-crafted items.
• Driving down to Merrymeeting Lake and snapping the gorgeous sunset.

12. Ocean City, Maryland

The easy-going and bubbly Ocean City is all about seaside family fun and endless water sports. It offers a close proximity to D.C, sparkling beaches, gorgeous wide dunes, amazing water sports activities and awesome sunsets.

Although it has plenty of fun events around the year, I personally think Ocean City is best from late May to early September, as the average highs range in the mid-80s.

I highly recommend hopping on a jet ski, swimming in the waves, going kayaking, or simply sunbathing on the southern shore; you’ll find plenty of spots to relax away from the crowds.

• Visitors Center Address: 4001 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842
• Average temperatures – 25 degrees
• Spending the day at the beach and going swimming.
• Enjoying adrenaline-pumping fun at the Jolly Roger Amusement Park, filled with rides, games, and food.
• Visiting the Northside Park which covers over 55 acres of land and features several walking trails, parks, and sports activities.

13. Edisto Island, South Carolina

This beautiful, unspoiled beach destination is one of South Carolina’s most popular family-friendly beach vacation and day trip spots.

The pretty island is part of the South Carolina Sea Islands in Charleston County and has plenty of activities to get involved in! 

I would recommend exploring the Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve and Wildlife Management Area, which is filled with wonderful wildlife, including a small beach where sea turtles nest and you can even go dolphin and whale watching.

Other attractions I’d suggest exploring are the Edisto Island Historic Preservation Museum and the pretty Edisto Beach State Park, where you can even go camping. 

• Visitors Center Address: 104 Palmetto Blvd, Edisto Island, SC 29438
• Average temperature – 27 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Exploring the Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve, which was filled with over 4,000 acres of woods, wetlands, and fields.
• Learning about the area’s history by visiting the preservation museum and seeing the array of interesting artifacts.
• Enjoying a unique experience by camping overnight at the state park.

14. S acramento, California

I love this city! It’s buzzing with a vibrant public art scene, historic sites, museums, and farm-to-table restaurants.

Sacramento is an affordable and family-friendly destination. Most festivals occur in spring and early summer, so this month is a great time to visit.

Springtime in Sacramento is lovely, as it’s not too hot yet, and the foggy weather has passed (temperatures can reach 28 degrees). 

I would highly recommend exploring the historic Old Town District, taking a tour of the State Capitol Museum, paddling in the American River, and cruising the Sacramento River. 

This easy-on-the-eye city can be very touristy in some areas, but I’m still a huge fan! 

• Visitors Center Address: 1000 2nd St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Average temperature  – 28 degrees
• Wandering around the Spanish-influenced buildings, shops, and restaurants at State Historic Park.
• Seeing amazing art at Crocker Art Museum.
• Spending the day at Raging Waters, a fun water park home to over 25 thrilling activities.

15. Monument Valley, Arizona

Part of the Colorado Plateau, America’s enigmatic landscape, Monument Valley is nature’s wonderland full of spires, buttes, red rock creations, and a stunning desert-like landscape.

I love the unique – and very Instagrammable – landscapes and the endless hiking trails they have here. It’s also a very popular spot to go rock climbing. 

Clear skies, warm weather, and cool nights make spring one of the most delightful seasons from March to late this month.

In my opinion, the warm and pleasant daytime temperatures, stable weather, and fewer crowds make this a fantastic spring break destination.

• Visitors Center Address:   U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
• Average temperatures –  26 degrees
• Hiking the most scenic location in the valley, the Wildcat Trail.
• Catching a breathtaking and Instaworthy sunrise over the naturally formed landscape.
• Taking a driving tour with my camera and photographing the stunning views.

16. Port Aransas, Texas

This is a busy tourist spot in Texas, but it’s popular for a reason – I personally think the beaches here are really beautiful.

Located on the Texas Coast on Mustang Island in the balmy Gulf of Mexico, there is also a great range of things to do here.

My favorite highlights include Roberts Point Park, where an observation tower offers beautiful bay views and dolphin sightings, and Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center which has a fantastic boardwalk crossing alligator-inhabited wetlands. 

Boats also run from Fisherman’s Wharf to secluded San José Island. Temperatures average around 28 degrees this month, so enjoy your warm beach destination!

• Visitors Center Address: 403 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
• Average temperature – 28 degrees
• Checking out the local museum, Port Aransas Museum which is housed in a 20th-century kit house.
• Tasting the gourmet coffee at Coffee Waves.
• Going on an adrenaline-pumping skydive over the city with Skydive South Texas! 

17. Atlanta, Georgia

This city is filled with world-class attractions, gorgeous parks, and shopping districts. It is a great year-round travel destination with a moderate subtropical climate.

I’d recommend a visit from either March to this month or from September to November , when average temperatures are around 27 degrees.

Witness the green spaces come alive with musical concerts in full swing in the spring with pleasant weather, moderate prices, and memorable events.

I recommend attending the Jazz Festival, exploring downtown, or planning a day trip to the nearby Georgia mountains; it’s a great time to head outdoors and enjoy a picnic in a shaded park! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 267 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 
• Average temperatures – 27 degrees
• Visiting the Atlanta Fair which was a day filled with carnival games, exciting rides, and delicious food.
• Experiencing a unique dining experience in Flight Club Atlanta while sipping on great cocktails and playing darts.
• Capturing Insta-worthy shots of the vibrant street art across the city.

18. New Orleans, Louisiana

I love this ever-chirpy and easygoing city where I always experience southern hospitality, fantastic live music and incredible food.

This month, it celebrates the mild weather with many special events, including the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.

While the days get warmer with relatively less humidity, you can enjoy pleasant weather with average daily highs of 29 degrees.

I recommend exploring the city on foot, taking a tour of the French Quarter’s beautiful homes and taking a memorable Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez. 

• Visitors’ Centre Address: 339 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130
• Average temperature – 29 degrees
• Visiting Cinco de Mayo which was a lively and fun week of music, tacos, and margaritas. 
• Hopping on a sightseeing tour and checking out all the major city attractions in one go.
• Riding on an airboat tour and going on a fast, exciting trip across the nearby swamps.

19. Savannah, Georgia

If you venture south, I highly suggest visiting Savannah, filled with beautiful architecture, flowering streets, and blooming azaleas.

Savannah’s subtropical climate makes for a pleasantly warm spring. There are also fewer crowds, lower prices, and lively events. I personally think March to June and mid- September to mid- November are the best times to visit this picturesque city.

I highly recommend exploring the city on foot and visiting the nearby seafront town of Charleston. 

• Visitors’ Centre Address: 301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401
• Average temperature  – 29 degrees
• Strolling around the cute independent boutiques.
• Riding around the beautiful Forsyth Park on a bike and then stopping off for a picnic surrounded by the stunning greenery.
• Chilling out on the beach on nearby Tybee Island.

20. Sanibel Island, Florida

This gorgeous island is located in southwest Florida along the Gulf of Mexico. Temperatures this month average around 32 degrees, so I recommend it if you’re looking for a hot vacation around this time of year.

It’s famous for its sunsets, lighthouses, and luxurious resorts, and I highly recommend just strolling around the beautiful beaches, which are filled with pretty shells.

I recommend visiting Lighthouse Beach, which has a fishing pier, The Causeway Beaches for water sports, the striking 19th-century Sanibel Lighthouse, the charming boardwalk that winds itself through marshes, and J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge , which covers about half of the island.

• Visitors’ Centre Address: 1159 Causeway Blvd, Sanibel, FL 33957
• Average temperature  – 32 degrees
• Discovering the beaches located along 12 miles of shoreline, where four-legged furry friends are also welcome.
• Hiring a kayak and spending time paddling around the gorgeous waters.
• Playing golf at the 18-hole The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club course.

Beth Pinches - writer and photographer Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road-tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin or  Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Jersey , Visit Sweden , and Israel Tourist Board. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Listed as a top UK travel journalist . Portland Reviewing Experience - Lived in Portland for 6 months and spent many months scouting out all the coolest spots.

4 thoughts on “Top 20 Awesome Places to Visit in May in the USA”

Love this number 5 and number 7 are my two favorite places I think, but they all look great!

Amazing tourist destinations! It’s so cool. I should be making plans now.Thanks for showing us these beautiful spots!

What a great list of places to visit in the USA in the Spring. Arches National Park is one of my favorites. In addition to Arches, the nearby city of Moab is a fun place to add to your trip. We actually plan to visit both Arches and Moab this May as a family.

Napa Valley and Yosemite have always been a charm for me. I will visit these two places definitely after covid as it is my dream to go there and stay inside the national park. Thanks for the wonderful information.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Top Destinations

• Food + Drink

Explore the best of the world. Access insider tips and hotel recommendations from our travel tastemakers

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

• 1 Mount Lussari Village, Italy
• 2 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
• 3 Bled, Slovenia
• 4 Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
• 5 Balzers, Liechtenstein
• 6 Alpbach, Austria
• 7 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

The 7 Most Charming Alpine Villages

The hills are alive with… well, you know. The Sound of Music ’s scenic set may epitomize the Alps, but the film only shows one small Austrian area. As Europe's largest and highest mountain range, the Alps span eight countries, including France, Italy, Switzerland, Monaco, Germany, Slovenia, Lichtenstein, and yes, Austria. Here, we’ve scouted the region’s seven most cinematic towns.

Chelsea is Brooklyn-based travel writer, editor, and photographer. When not home eating her way through NYC, she's gallivanting across the globe, sailing the coast of Croatia or hiking the peaks of Peru. Her superpowers include booking flight deals and sleeping in small plane seats.

See recent posts by Chelsea Bengier

Mount Lussari Village, Italy

After riding a 15-minute lift up to the Borgo Lussari summit, travelers will find something unexpected: the magical 16th-century Sanctuary of the Virgin Mary . Legend has it that a vision of the Madonna appeared on the mountaintop, and shortly thereafter a chapel was built. The ruins of the original 1360 church are now buried beneath the foundation of the sanctuary, but even today many worshipers make the pilgrimage to see the spiritual site, which teeters over the forested Valcanale and Tarvisio basin below. Meanwhile, the village itself has plenty of its own pursuits, including a challenging ski run and cozy taverns serving homemade goulash.

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Set in a valley of the Bernese Oberland, Lauterbrunnen looks like it’s something out of a fairytale. A charming yellow train connects the hamlet to Interlaken, just 20 minutes away, and Jungfrau , a craggy, snow-capped peak known as the Top of Europe. Hikers who stop at Lauterbrunnen will find rustic Swiss chalets, wildflower meadows, and a 1,000-foot waterfall—one of 72 in the area—that cascades from a cliff near the edge of town.

RELATED: The Most Charming Towns in Switzerland

Bled, Slovenia

Bled’s storybook shores are one of the most underrated sites in the region. Explore the medieval 11th-century clifftop castle , or take a pletna (traditional wooden boot) to the tiny island at the center of the crystalline glacial lake, where there is a spired church that dates back to the 1400s. Before the chapel was built, the island was home to a 9th-century pagan temple honoring the ancient Slavic goddess of love.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

Bavarian buildings covered with colorful murals and flower window boxes line the cobblestoned streets of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The alpine enclave is surrounded by opulent palaces, historic monasteries, and striking gorges. Just 20 minutes away, you’ll find the Linderhof and Schachen estates, the Ettal and Benediktbeuern abbeys, and the Walchensee and Kochelsee lakes. If you’re up for the trip, an hour’s drive will land you at Neuschwanstein , a 19th-century Romanesque Revival fortress that was the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella castles.

Balzers, Liechtenstein

This stamp-sized country sure knows how to pack a punch. Balzers stands out thanks to its scenic location: nestled along the Rhine River in the verdant Neckar Valley, the town is connected to its neighbors by a 230-mile bike path. On a hilltop in the center of the community rises the striking Gutenberg Castle , which was built around 1100. Today, the free Castle Museum offers falconry lessons, forest walking tours, sword-fighting seminars, and exhibits on the Middle Ages.

RELATED : 15 Secret European Villages You Have to Visit

Alpbach, Austria

We’re not ones to judge, but when a place titles itself the most beautiful village in all of Austria (an accolade it has held since the ‘80s), it’s pretty hard to disagree. Every year, thousands of people visit this secluded Tyrolean town to take in its wooden lodges, cute white churches, and miles of untouched alpine landscape. Of course, the slopes are the big draw here—so grab your skis and hit the trails around the neighboring Ski Juwel resorts.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

Want to know where France’s rich and glamorous go to après-ski? Look no further than Chamonix, a glitzy ski resort town at the base of Mont Blanc, the highest summit in the Alps. The 1924 Winter Olympics were held here, and it has gained popularity ever since. Today, it has six ski areas, world-class hotels, and a Baroque village with high-end boutiques and brasseries. For a bird’s-eye view, take the gondola to Le Panoramic , a sprawling glass-walled terrace on the tip of Le Brévent, or to Aiguille du Midi’s rustic-chic mountaintop restaurant, Le 3842 , which dishes up foie gras with truffle sauce, escargot with morel mushrooms, and wild boar with a Burgundy wine glaze.

What to Pack

Women’s winter outfit to wear in a snowy scape, shop the look.

Phone Case Wallet

Chelsea Boot

Men’s winter outfit to wear in a snowy scape.

Aviator Coat

Wool-Cashmere Blanket Scarf

Skinny Fit Jeans

All Weather Boot

Women’s nice winter outfit for the catskills.

Floral Dress

Flower Balm

Heeled Boots

Men’s cozy outfit for a cabin in winter.

Cashmere Crew

Fleece Pants

Cashmere Scarf

• 10 Romantic Hotels in Europe We Can’t Stop Dreaming About
• America’s Best Winter Weekend Getaways
• The 9 Best Mountain Towns in the U.S.

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Jetsetter may earn an affiliate commission.

Become a Jetsetter.

Use our insider connections to know where to go and what to do.

Thanks for Signing Up!

Related Tags

Explore more.

Hotel Innsbruck

The Most Charming Towns in Austria

The Best Places to Travel in March: Europe Edition

Hotel Grauer Bär

• Tips & Planning
• Travel Product

9 Best Things to Do in Stowe May 2024

Columbus weather in may 2024 and best places to visit, 9 best things to do in telluride may 2024.

Escape to the breathtaking mountain town of Telluride this May and immerse yourself in an unforgettable adventure. With its stunning scenery, world-class festivals, and endless outdoor activities, Telluride offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or serene mountain escapes, here are 9 must-experience activities to make your May 2024 visit truly exceptional:

1) Mountain Biking in May for Adrenaline Rush: For thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, Telluride offers some of the most exhilarating mountain biking trails in the country. In May, the snowpack melts away, revealing a network of challenging and scenic trails that cater to all skill levels. From the beginner-friendly Valley Floor Loop to the adrenaline-pumping Keystone Gulch Trail, there’s a ride for every adventure seeker. Rent a bike from a local shop and embark on an unforgettable mountain biking experience amidst Telluride’s breathtaking scenery.

Hike in Mountain Village:

Telluride’s Mountain Village is a picturesque hiker’s paradise. The village is surrounded by rolling hills and towering peaks, offering a myriad of hiking trails suitable for all abilities. Embrace the crisp May air and embark on a leisurely stroll along the scenic Valley Floor Trail or venture deeper into the wilderness on the challenging Bear Creek Falls Trail. Along the way, marvel at the stunning vistas, bubbling streams, and abundant wildlife.

Explore the Town of Telluride:

Nestled in a box canyon surrounded by towering peaks, the historic town of Telluride is a charming blend of Victorian architecture and modern amenities. Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, where you’ll find a vibrant mix of boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Soak in the town’s rich history by visiting the Telluride Historical Museum or embark on a guided tour to uncover the town’s fascinating past.

Attend the Telluride Mountainfilm Festival:

In May, Telluride hosts the prestigious Telluride Mountainfilm Festival, a highly acclaimed event that showcases a diverse range of adventure, environmental, and cultural films. Engage with renowned filmmakers, participate in thought-provoking discussions, and immerse yourself in the spirit of adventure that permeates the festival.

Kayak the San Miguel River:

As the snowmelt swells the San Miguel River in May, it transforms into a kayaker’s paradise. Rent a kayak and paddle along the river’s gentle currents, taking in the stunning canyon scenery and spotting abundant wildlife. For a more challenging adventure, tackle the Class III rapids section known as “The Box.”

Experience the Telluride Gondola:

Soar above the San Miguel River Valley on the Telluride Gondola, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. The gondola whisks you from the town of Telluride to Mountain Village, where you can explore the alpine trails, relax in a mountaintop restaurant, or simply soak in the stunning scenery.

Explore Bridal Veil Falls:

Just a short drive from Telluride, Bridal Veil Falls is a breathtaking sight to behold. The falls cascade over a sheer cliff, creating a mesmerizing veil of water that plunges into a crystal-clear pool below. Hike to the base of the falls for an up-close encounter with the power and beauty of nature.

Enjoy the Telluride Arts District:

Telluride is renowned for its vibrant arts scene. In May, the town comes alive with the Telluride Arts District Stroll, a monthly event that showcases local and regional artists. Wander through galleries, admire unique sculptures, and engage with talented artists.

Visit the Telluride Fly Fishing Festival:

For fishing enthusiasts, May marks the highly anticipated Telluride Fly Fishing Festival. Join expert anglers for guided fishing trips, fly-tying demonstrations, and casting competitions. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of fly fishing amidst Telluride’s pristine waters.

Culture, Transportation, Cuisine, and Best Hotels:

Immerse yourself in Telluride’s vibrant culture beyond the activities listed above. Visit the Sheridan Opera House for world-class performances, explore the Telluride Regional Museum to delve into local history, and attend the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival for live music and craft beer. Transportation to Telluride is convenient, with regional airports nearby. Once in town, take advantage of the free gondola system and local shuttles to navigate the area effortlessly. Indulge in Telluride’s culinary scene, where farm-to-table restaurants offer a delectable array of flavors. From cozy cafes to fine dining establishments, there’s something to satisfy every palate. For a luxurious stay, consider the Madeline Hotel & Residences or the Hotel Telluride. These top-rated hotels offer exceptional amenities, convenient locations, and breathtaking mountain views. Escape to Telluride in May and create unforgettable memories amidst stunning scenery, thrilling adventures, and cultural experiences. Let the spirit of the mountains invigorate your soul and embrace the endless possibilities that await you in this extraordinary destination.

Related Posts

9 best things to do in st. augustine may 2024, 9 best things to do in sedona in may 2024, 9 best things to do in sun valley may 2024, 9 best things to do in tampa may 2024, 9 best things to do in savannah may 2024.

Comments are closed.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

• How to Tie a Tie
• Best Coffee Beans
• How to Shape a Beard
• Best Sweaters for Men
• Most Expensive Cognac
• Monos vs Away Luggage
• Best Luxury Hotel Chains
• Fastest Cars in the World
• Ernest Hemingway Books
• What Does CBD Feel Like?
• Canada Goose Alternatives
• Fastest Motorcycles in the World

Go on a dream trip: These are the best places to visit in May

Where should you vacation in may.

In May, the weather’s sweet, and the prices are reasonable, giving you abundant travel options. In the Northern Hemisphere, the world awakens from its winter slumber, birds sing, and nature blooms, creating a rejuvenating mood. 

Our favorite May destinations around the world

Nantucket, massachusetts, louisville, kentucky, sicily, italy, yellowstone national park, travel in may: easy on the wallet and good for the soul.

Not only that but with thin crowds, you’ve got everything to yourself, so you can explore in peace and get the most out of your trip. So, where should you go? We’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in May, from coastal retreats to cultural hubs. Here’s where we’d go.

May isn’t the most popular month to travel. But maybe it should be. Summer months bring dense crowds and high costs. Winter ski trips can bring the same, along with a corresponding chill. But May makes things easy with its refreshing mood, sparse travelers, and palatable pricing.

• The government just banned this airline practice every traveler hates
• You’ll soon need a visa to visit this incredible country
• The best hotels in NYC for a spring or summer stay

Picking a May destination is like perusing a color palette, with various shades to suit your fancy. Maybe you need a place to unwind by the ocean, take in the salty air, and enjoy fresh seafood. Or if you want to get closer to nature, going on safari in pristine wilderness could be the ticket. Either way, we’ve got something for you.

During May in Nantucket, you’ll have mile after mile of coastline to yourself, letting you soak in the ocean air in peace. Three million blooming daffodils capture the springtime feeling, and temps in the mid-50s to mid-60s are just right for relaxing. 

Then there’s the food. Visit local markets like Nantucket Seafoods or Glidden’s Island Seafood, and pick from fresh lobster, Nantucket Bay scallops, oysters, and much, much more. Or, check out the Nantucket Wine & Food Festival from May 15-19, with a curated selection from local artisans and chefs. 

In our changing world, truly unspoiled places become more and more scarce. That can be especially true with regard to wildlife, with animals in zoos replacing those in their natural habitat. But Zambia lets you get up close and personal with elephants, lions, zebras, rhinos, and more.

With the Emerald Season ending, May is the perfect time to go on safari, providing mellow weather on long days and ideal lighting for vivid photographs. Besides that, Victoria Falls along the Zambezi River provides a stunning natural sight.

The Kentucky Derby lasts around two minutes. During that span, there’s unmatched tension and excitement as thoroughbreds strain and race toward the finish line. But the competition isn’t the only attraction on derby day. The track at Churchill Downs becomes a cultural hub with a vibrant atmosphere, celebratory mood, and unique Kentucky fare.

Try a mint julep cocktail — composed of whiskey, sugar, water, and mint — while you take in the festive hats worn by race attendees. Get up close with magnificent horses, whose athleticism and power are a sight to behold. Then, when the starting gate opens, get ready for two minutes like you’ve never experienced.

Italy is an epicenter of history, culture, art, and cuisine. Sicily offers that and more. Just off the toe of Italy’s boot, the island has warm Mediterranean waters, an active volcano, and fascinating ruins. Of course, there’s cuisine options in abundance, from Arancini — deep-fried Risotto rice balls — to Caponata — a salad containing eggplant, capers, olives, and more.

We’d visit the Mount Etna volcano for its continual eruptions that date back 500,000 years. After that, we’d take in Sicily’s ancient ruins, like those found in Agrigento and Selinunte. To cap things off, we’d explore Catania’s street food vendors for a mix of textures and flavors.

As spring takes shape and nature awakens, what better place to visit than this national gem? Toward the end of May, the park’s mostly open, letting you explore trails and attractions and bask in the pure environment. Since temps hover in the mid-50s, it’s neither cold nor hot, and you can savor the season’s spirit of renewal.

We’d venture to the Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail , then look for Bison in Lamar Valley. At Yellowstone Lake — 20 miles long and 14 miles wide, at 7,500 feet elevation,  — we’d hop in a kayak and take it all in. Then we’d set up camp and settle in for stargazing. 

For a mix of pleasure, thrift, and peace, traveling in May is hard to beat. You have pleasant weather that encourages relaxation. Light crowds and low prices let you enjoy on a budget. Nature’s bounty is on full display.

These destinations offer a little of everything, whether you’re after natural wonders or a rich cultural experience. Whichever you choose, you’re in for a memorable trip. Happy exploring.

Editors' Recommendations

• 3 great reasons to visit the Caribbean island Ernest Hemingway made famous
• When is the best time to visit Italy? This is when you should go
• The Airbnb cancellation policy is changing for summer — what you need to know
• Here’s what you should never buy on vacation
• 8 helpful tips for taking a red-eye flight
• Advice and how-tos
• Advice and insights
• Destinations

When speaking of national parks, two often dominate the conversation: Yellowstone and Yosemite. While both are crown jewels of the National Park System, each offers a distinctly unique experience. These parks attract millions of visitors annually, but which one reigns supreme for the summer traveler? Let's compare these iconic destinations. Yellowstone National Park

Established in 1872 as the first national park in the world, Yellowstone National Park sprawls across three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Covering over 2.2 million acres, it’s a vast land of natural wonders. Here's what it's famous for: Geothermal geysers Yellowstone is home to over 10,000 hydrothermal features, including more than 500 geysers. The star of the show is Old Faithful, a geyser famous for its predictable eruptions. Besides geysers, the park boasts multicolored hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots. An abundance of wildlife Yellowstone’s ecosystem is a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors marvel at herds of bison roaming the valleys, spot elusive wolves in the Lamar Valley, and observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat. Just make sure that you're following the rules when it comes to interacting with animals. The park is a living showcase of wildlife management and natural balance. Unparalleled views The park's landscape varies from rolling grasslands to dense forests and high-altitude lakes. Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-altitude lake in North America, offering stunning views and fishing opportunities. Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging backcountry adventures, catering to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Yosemite National Park

• Food & Drink

If you're known as The City That Never Sleeps, you probably have a few good bars to your name. New York is the ultimate beehive, going strong regardless of the borough or time of day. That makes for a pretty rich NYC bar culture.

Sure, there are trending establishments that draw huge lines—look at you, Double Chicken Please. But there are also excellent dives, tremendous wine bars, and watering holes that make you reexamine the definition of a great cocktail.

Air travel opens the door to global exploration. On a sleek, fast airplane, you can reach faraway destinations in hours, not days, paving the way to new experiences. Have you always wanted to ski the Swiss Alps? Just book a flight, and you’ll be there in no time. Not to mention, you’ll enjoy the stunning views from above.

On the other hand, when returning home, getting through security can be a chore. Long lines and lengthy processes put a dent in your memorable trip. It’s a real hassle.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

The 18 Most Beautiful Places In Georgia, According To A Born-And-Raised Local

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the breezy barrier islands, the Peach State is full of surprises.

Growing up somewhere, it can be easy to become immune to its unique virtues. Georgia is home to sweeping farmlands and soaring mountain ranges, lush pine forests and breezy barrier islands, and even bustling cities and charming small towns . With no shortage of topographies and landmarks to explore, the Peach State won’t leave any visitor wondering about its natural appeal. 

As a born-and-raised Georgia native, I’ve explored the state and its varying locales, having spent days wandering the cobblestone streets of Savannah, climbing up the Blue Ridge Mountains, touring Atlanta museums, and biking on a beach cruiser in many a coastal town. While there’d be no way to round up every special place in the state, I’m happy to list some favorites. Here are the 18 most beautiful places in Georgia, according to a local. 

Jekyll Island

This Georgia barrier island on the Atlantic Coast—between Jacksonville and Savannah—offers more than 20 miles of bike trails and walking routes that meander through marshes and hover atop wooden boardwalks. Seasonal ranger walks allow you to experience the area's scenic wonders, and travelers with binoculars flock to walking trails for self-guided nature tours and afternoons spent spotting birds beneath the trees. 

Tallulah Gorge State Park

SeanPavonePhoto /Getty Images

Along the border between Georgia and South Carolina sits Tallulah Falls, a small town abounding in natural blessings. The biggest draw in the area is  Tallulah Gorge State Park , the centerpiece of which is the namesake gorge that has been dubbed one of the "Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia." It stretches two miles long and drops almost 1,000 feet deep, carved out over centuries by the Tallulah River. The Tallulah Gorge Rim Trail is one of the best ways to see the gorge and take in the beauty of the landscape.

Cumberland Island

Steeped in history, this enchanting Georgia barrier island feels suspended in time. Today, Cumberland Island is mostly protected land under the classification of  National Seashore . The 17-mile-long strip of land remains largely in its natural state, populated by dense maritime forest of live oaks, saw palmetto, sabal palms, and pines. Explore the many historic ruins and natural wonders scattered across the island.

Little Grand Canyon

Getty Images/SeanPavonePhoto

Also claimed as one of the "Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia," Providence Canyon State Park  is a 2,706-acre recreation area with unique geological formations you wouldn't necessarily expect to see in the Peach State. Arizona, Enjoy views of the canyons from the Rim Trail or get a little more adventurous by hiking to the bottom of the deepest canyons. One of the most popular hikes, the 5-mile Canyon Loop Trail, circles nine of the canyons.

With less than 1,000 residents, this charming Bavarian town centered on around 2 square miles is undoubtedly tiny—and feels like you're far away from Georgia. The steeply pitched roofs, quaint cross-gables, and colorful half-timbering exude fairytale charm, and Helen being so close to the mountains of Georgia offers unmatched outdoor recreation. Its annual Oktoberfest brings visitors flocking in the fall for revelry.

Rock City Gardens

Southern Living

Right near the border of northwest Georgia and Tennessee, you'll find a true natural marvel of massive ancient rock formations, panoramic views, and beautiful gardens with over 400 native plant species. Rock City Gardens rests atop Lookout Mountain, and offers many ways to explore, including the 4,100-foot Enchanted Trail that highlights caves, rock formations, and more.

St. Simons Island

Georgia’s largest barrier island, which is known for its moss-hung oak trees, feels like a true escape. Beyond the quiet beaches and breezy outdoor activities, the walkable village on St. Simons Island has you feeling like a main character in a novel. Make sure to check out the scenic Christ Church Frederica , which is one of the oldest churches in the state.

Forsyth Park

SeanPavonePhoto / Getty Images

While you can freely take a walk through any one of Savannah's many city squares and parks—which pop up every few blocks, ensuring you're never too far from a green space to wander—the biggest and perhaps most beautiful in the historic district is the 30-acre  Forsyth Park , which neighbors The Savannah College of Art and Design and has a majestic fountain and lots of paths winding beneath moss-draped oak trees.

Downtown Thomasville

Robbie Caponetto

On a sunny day, there's no better place to be than walking around the cobblestone streets of downtown Thomasville—a small town in southwest Georgia—which has shops and restaurants aplenty and captures a charming town-square feeling that is hard to come by nowadays. While the town is surrounded by its signature (and utterly gorgeous) farmlands and hunting camps, you'll not need to stray far from the downtown blocks. Make sure to stop into local boutiques for wares to bring home.

Callaway Resort & Gardens

Getty Images/Anchasa Mitchell

Sprawled over 2,500 acres, Callaway Resort & Gardens is located within the town of Pine Mountain and brings visitors year-round for seasonal events, outdoor recreation, and blooming floral displays, particularly in the spring. There are miles of trails and gardens to keep you busy all day, including the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, which is surrounded by gardens and filled with fluttering butterflies.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is one of Georgia's most lush and verdant gems that stretches for 867,000 mountainous and wooded acres. On a clear day, you can see four states from  Brasstown Bald Visitor Information Center , which is the highest point in Georgia at 4,784 feet above sea level. Expect sweeping 360-degree views after a curvy, scenic drive and a short, paved path to the peak.

Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site

Getty Images/RodClementPhotography

About three hours from Macon, you'll find a truly unique 54-acre site—the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site —that happens to be the most intact Native American Mississippian culture site in the Southeast, featuring six earthen mounds, as well as a plaza, village site, and more. You can walk a nature trail along the Etowah River and check out artifacts of how early civilizations lived off the land and the forest.

Macon Cherry Blossom Festival

In March, around 350,000 Yoshino flowering cherry trees paint this small town pink. (Washington, D.C., by comparison, has only around 3,800 of them.) During the 10-day  International Cherry Blossom Festival,  thousands of people fill the streets of Macon to ring in spring with a parade, concerts, food and drink specials, and a giant fair. 

Atlanta History Center

Getty Images

Encompassing 33 acres of gardens, historic homes, and art and culture exhibitions, the Atlanta History Center is as much as breathtaking visit for the site alone as it is for the many attractions. Run by the Atlanta Historical Society, it was founded in 1926 to preserve and study Atlanta history.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

Getty Images/HABesen

The largest wetland in the South and another of the state's "Seven Natural Wonders," Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is a 402,000-acre refuge for turtles, raccoons, black bears, deer, numerous birds, and more. It is also estimated that 12,000 alligators live within the refuge, too. Visitors can rent canoes or opt for guided boat tours to take in the swamp and its many critters. 

Ian Dagnall/Alamy

Tucked in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this charming small town offers sweeping views and plenty to do, with hiking trails for the adventurous, an impressive collection of North Georgia wineries for weekend tours and tastings, and a historic town square with worn brick facades centered around a courthouse, which dates back to the state's early 19th-century gold rush. Plus, it gets decked out for Christmas, if you're ever looking for a Hallmark movie-worthy setting.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Alison Miksch

Founded in 1976, the Atlanta Botanical Garden spreads over 30 acres adjacent to the grassy sprawl of Piedmont Park, and its footprint includes many lush gardens, walkways, and art installations. As you explore, don’t miss the Fuqua Orchid Center, where you can see one of the most diverse collections of these plants in the world (it contains over 2,000 species of the delicate blooms). Additionally, it puts on an incredibly festive display during the holiday season.

Lake Lanier

Just around 45 minutes from Atlanta, man-made Lake Lanier is as pretty as it is expansive, stretching 38,000 acres. A favorite summer destination for Georgia natives, there are plenty of activities to partake in, from enjoying a boat day or kayaking the lake's many bays and isles. Sunsets here are the epitome of the beauty of Southern lake days.

Related Articles

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

15 Best Places to Travel in May 2024

These are the best places to visit in May in the United States and around the world.

Memphis, Tennessee

San diego, california, jackson hole, wyoming, the hamptons, new york, carmel, california, the palm beaches, florida, charleston, south carolina, west virginia, tbilisi, georgia, oxford, united kingdom, dublin, ireland, baden-baden, germany, balearic islands, spain.

Tanatat pongphibool ,thailand/Travel + Leisure

May is your last chance to enjoy shoulder season’s lower prices, pleasant weather, and smaller crowds before the arrival of summer travelers. This month could be the right time to head to a national park, a sunny beach in the Caribbean, or one of the many festivals celebrating food, wine, music, and flowers happening in the U.S. and around the world. We tapped local experts to share their top travel tips so you can start planning your next long weekend getaway or weeks-long escape. 

Here are the best places to travel in May in the United States and around the world. 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

The annual Memphis in May International Festival returns with the World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest from May 15-18, and The Great American River Run on May 25 takes runners along the Mississippi and through downtown. “There’s something special about Memphis in May,” local artist Dorothy Collier tells Travel + Leisure. “What I love most is that it’s the perfect occasion to support local artists while also spending quality time with friends and family.” Live music on Beale Street, Elvis Presley’s Graceland, and the National Civil Rights Museum are popular Memphis attractions year-round. 

Where to Stay: The Memphian Hotel features a rooftop cocktail bar and all-day dining at Complicated Pilgrim. Downtown wilderness-themed resort, Big Cypress Lodge , is located inside the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid, and boutique Central Station is an art-filled option above the train station.

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

May’s moderate weather is perfect for biking, walking along the beach, exploring Balboa Park, or venturing to Carlsbad for the last weeks of The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch . Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo (May 3-5) celebrates with mariachi, Latin rock, a ballet folklórico competition, and other events. Gator by the Bay , from May 9-12, brings the Mardi Gras vibes with zydeco, Cajun, swing, salsa, and rock music along with Louisiana-style food. 

Where to Stay: The classic Hotel del Coronado , a personal favorite for its beachfront location, offers elevated stays in Beach Village cottages and the Shore House. In the downtown Gaslamp District, check in to Pendry San Diego , or stay nearby in Encinitas at Alila Marea Beach Resort . 

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

It’s spring in the mountains, and diehard skiers can probably find some snow for a few late-season runs, but May is also an ideal time to explore two of the country’s best national parks before the summer crowds arrive. Grand Teton National Park’s Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center opens May 1, and most Yellowstone National Park roads open in late April. May can be a great time to spot wildlife in both parks as deer, elk, and moose begin calving, and Old West Days and Elkfest bring a festive atmosphere to town. The Aerial Tram opens mid-month for scenic rides offering stunning views of the Tetons and valley below.

Where to Stay: The Cloudveil , voted one of the top hotels in Wyoming by T+L readers, is located right on the Town Square and features an expansive rooftop terrace. Boutique Hotel Jackson offers the Sacajawea Library, filled with Western literature and art, plus upscale amenities. 

Rob Lang/Travel + Leisure

May is shoulder season on eastern Long Island, a time to enjoy local wineries, fresh produce, walks on the beach, and dining at restaurants that will soon have waiting lists for reservations. Take a bike ride or drive to Montauk Point State Park to hike on nature trails, stroll along the shore, or visit Montauk Lighthouse, the oldest in New York State. “May is amazing. Asparagus are popping along with fresh lettuces, green onions, peas, and other tasty green delicacies,” James Christopher Tracy, winemaker and partner at Channing Daughters Winery , tells T+L. “Spring also brings the release of new pink wines and fresh whites like sauvignon blanc and pinot grigio. Longer days, warmer temperatures, and yummy stuff everywhere — what could be better than the East End in May!”

Where to Stay: The Reform Club in Amagansett offers suites, cottages, and a four-bedroom residence. EHP Resort & Marina in East Hampton and wellness-focused Shou Sugi Ban House in Water Mill are other top choices. 

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

From Carmel Valley to Carmel-by-the Sea , this Monterey Peninsula area is one of California’s most beautiful places to be in May. The weather is cool and sunny, ideal for being outdoors for a round of golf or a visit to Garland Ranch Regional Park where there are hiking trails, a waterfall, and gorgeous views. A drive towards the ocean takes you to Carmel-by-the-Sea’s art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and Carmel Beach. The Carmel Art Festival is set for May 17-19 with entertainment and art for sale. When you’re thirsty, head to Carmel Valley’s wineries and Carmel-by-the-Sea’s tasting rooms for a glass of the local vino.

Where to Stay: The newly renovated Carmel Valley Ranch offers golf, tennis, archery, horseback riding, and youth activities. Quail Lodge & Golf Club features tennis and pickleball along with golf and a nine-hole putting course.

Crystal Bolin Photography/Travel + Leisure

About 70 miles north of Miami, the coastal cities and beach towns of Florida’s Palm Beaches offer upscale shopping, plush resorts, and nearly 50 miles of beaches. In West Palm Beach, the Norton Museum of Art features an impressive collection and special exhibits, best explored during “Art After Dark” on Friday evenings. A National Historic Landmark, the Flagler Museum in Palm Beach is housed in the opulent Gilded Age mansion once owned by Henry Flagler. The annual SunFest waterfront music festival is set for May 3-5 in West Palm Beach, with headliners including Nelly and Bill Idol. 

Where to Stay: White Elephant Palm Beach is a luxury boutique hotel housed in a renovated 1924 building. Golfers will love the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, with six courses and a spa, and The Breakers was voted one of the best resorts in Florida in the 2023 World’s Best Awards. The Singer Oceanfront Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton features the largest shoreline on the island. 

“Charleston is a year-round destination, but May brings something special,” according to Tyler Wright Friedman, founder of Walk and Talk Charleston . “Spring is turning to summer, and it’s time for the beach and boats, but also Spoleto and the arts.” The acclaimed annual performing arts festival, Spoleto , runs from May 24 to June 9. But before that, the North Charleston Arts Fest (May 1-5) highlights dance, music, theater, visual arts, and literature. Named America’s favorite city (again) in the 2023 World’s Best Awards , Charleston ’s warm weather in the low 80s makes May a perfect time to explore all the city has to offer. 

Where to Stay: T+L readers voted Wentworth Mansion — a boutique 19th-century home-turned-hotel with 21 guest rooms — the best hotel in Charleston in the 2023 World’s Best Awards. 

Bkamprath/Travel + Leisure

Nicknamed “The Mountain State” and “Almost Heaven” (thanks to John Denver’s classic song), West Virginia is the home of America’s newest national park, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve . “Spring is truly one of the best seasons to visit the park,” Eve West, chief of interpretation and visitor services for the park, tells T+L. “In early spring before the trees leaf out, wildflowers of many colors and varieties literally carpet the forest floor. Later, the leaf canopy appears, and you can see shades of light and dark green as the leaves mature.” Hiking, river rafting, biking, and exploring by car are some ways to enjoy New River Gorge’s 70,000 acres of land and the New River — which, despite its name, is actually among the oldest rivers on Earth.

Where to Stay: There are eight campgrounds to choose from at the national park. ACE Adventure Resort also offers cabins, log homes, RV sites, and rustic campsites. 

Tanatat pongphibool ,thailand/Travel + Leisure

Georgia, called the birthplace of winemaking, is located on the border between Europe and Asia with the Caucasus Mountains to the north and the Black Sea to the west. “With fewer crowds, May is the perfect time for a Georgian getaway,” according to Levan Berulava, a Tbilisi tastemaker and general manager of Rooms Hotels. “Everything wakes up again in May — nature, trees, and Tbilisi itself all come alive with colors, mirroring the warmth and vibrant energy of its people.” Zero Compromise , a two-day wine festival dedicated to natural wine, will be held in May. Also in May, the New Wine Festival brings vintners from around the country to Tbilisi . “Long walks in a cobbled maze of balconied neighborhoods offer opportunities to stumble on art nouveau urban architecture and layers of complex history,” Berulava says of Tbilisi. “Indulge in Georgian cuisine, sit in outdoor cafes, slowly sipping wine.”

Where to Stay: Rooms Tbilisi is located in the Vera district, with 122 rooms and suites the hotel’s website calls “industrial chic.” 

Travelpix Ltd/Travel + Leisure

About 60 miles northwest of London, Oxford is home to the University of Oxford , the oldest university in the English-speaking world, dating back as early as 1096. “With its impressive historic buildings, ancient lanes, riverside walks, and timeless beauty, Oxford has been featured in many movies. Come in May, and you’ll also find cutting-edge culture, excellent and eclectic food, great shopping, and a host of springtime celebrations,” Lesley Wright of Experience Oxfordshire told T+L. We recommend adding the Museum of Oxford , Oxford Castle and Prison , and the many filming locations featured in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey to your itinerary. 

Where to Stay: Set to open in April 2024 in the heart of Oxford, The Store is a boutique hotel located in a historic building that was once a family-owned department store.  

Chris Bacarella/Travel + Leisure

The shoulder season month of May is a great time to visit St. Lucia thanks to dry weather with temperatures in the 80s. Visitors can try the island’s delicious cuisine, zipline across the forest canopy, swim in the hot springs, lounge on gorgeous palm-lined beaches, and hike along the Pitons, dramatic volcanic mountains that are recognized as a World Heritage Site. The St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival (April 30-May 12) presents international and local musicians representing a wide range of genres.

Where to Stay: St. Lucia’s best all-inclusive resorts make vacation planning easy. Wellness resort BodyHoliday offers a variety of spa treatments and wellness experiences, while Jade Mountain offers stunning views of the Pitons from private, in-room infinity pools. 

Located on the Caribbean Sea, Belize is made up of 450 islands and a mainland area with rainforests and mountains. May is warm and dry, an ideal time for diving in the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef in the world, or in the famous Blue Hole , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Snorkelers will enjoy a boat trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve to swim among tropical fish, sharks, rays, and sea turtles. From May 17-19, visitors can check out the annual Chocolate Festival in southern Belize.  

Where to Stay: I stayed at Alaia Belize on Ambergris Caye and appreciated the great staff, tasty food, and convenient location steps from San Pedro. For something a little more secluded, Cayo Espanto is an all-inclusive private island resort with seven villas. 

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

There’s still a chill in the air in Ireland, but May is one of Dublin’s driest months, so it’s a good time to pack a jacket and enjoy the city before summer crowds (and higher prices) arrive. Go for a stroll through expansive Phoenix Park or centrally located St. Stephen’s Green, visit Trinity College to see the famous Book of Kells, and learn about Irish history at the National Museum of Ireland and Kilmainham Gaol. Don’t miss the music, fun, and friendly atmosphere of Dublin’s pubs, and learn to pour a proper pint at the Guinness Storehouse before you enjoy 360-degree views of the city from the Gravity Bar. 

Where to Stay: The Shelbourne , celebrating its 200th anniversary in 2024, was voted one of the top Dublin hotels in the 2023 World’s Best Awards. Throughout its storied past, the hotel has hosted iconic guests including John Wayne, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Grace Kelly. The Leinster is scheduled to open on Merrion Square this February with a Jean-Georges rooftop restaurant. 

JWackenhut/Getty Images

Located in southwestern Germany in the Black Forest, Baden-Baden is known for its world-famous spa culture and abundance of natural thermal springs. Caracalla Therme and Friedrichsbad Spa are among the best-known bathhouses, located at the site of original Roman baths dating back 2,000 years. In May, the Spring Meeting opens the horse racing season, welcoming thoroughbreds from around the world for three days of events. The opulent Baden-Baden Casino , Germany’s oldest casino, is also worth a stop. 

Where to Stay: Roomers Baden-Baden , Autograph Collection features a rooftop terrace, outdoor pool, spa, and gym. 

Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

Located in the western Mediterranean Sea, the Balearic Islands offer a mild climate year-round, but May is the best time to enjoy warm weather with fewer visitors. Ibiza is lively in summer, but in May you can enjoy quieter visits to markets, beaches, and the hillside town of Dalt Vila. Menorca offers a more low-key atmosphere, Mallorca is the largest of the islands with lots to see and do, and Formentera, the smallest of the inhabited islands, treasures its natural beauty. Whether you’re after nightlife, water sports, quaint towns, or a tranquil escape, you can find your perfect spring vacation in the Balearic Islands.

Where to Stay: In Menorca, Villa Le Blanc offers beautiful Mediterranean views and a Thai-inspired spa. In Mallorca, the adults-only Hotel de Mar and Zafiro Palace Andratx are five-star options. In Ibiza, Ibiza Gran Hotel offers an array of wellness experiences and Michelin-starred La Gaia by Óscar Molina. 

Protect Your Trip »

11 top places to visit in the north carolina mountains.

Elevate your next getaway with a visit to these destinations in the Tar Heel State.

Top Places in the North Carolina Mountains

Getty Images

With stunning views and plenty to do, Blue Ridge Parkway should be at the top of your North Carolina mountains itinerary.

If you're looking for a getaway at a higher elevation and want an escape from the big city, look no further than one of these serene destinations in the North Carolina mountains. With plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities, majestic scenery and wide-open spaces, these towns, parks and attractions are the perfect locales to visit for solo trips, romantic getaways and family vacations.

If you prefer a more laid-back vacation, there are also historical and cultural attractions, luxury accommodations and excellent dining options. And if you're a craft beer enthusiast, you'll be happy to know North Carolina is home to more than 370 breweries and brewpubs – the largest number in the American South.

So, if you're ready for an adventure-filled getaway, need a relaxing vacation or prefer a little of both, check out the best places to visit in the North Carolina mountains.

Asheville is one of the state's most popular vacation destinations with its funky Bohemian vibe and prime location in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains. Historic Biltmore Estate is one of the main attractions, but visitors will also find a vibrant cultural, craft beer and culinary scene to explore.

Downtown is easily walkable, and you can even go on a self-guided "scavenger hunt" along the Urban Trail to learn about Asheville's intriguing past. With the help of an interactive app that you can download onto your smartphone, you'll discover 30 commemorative stops along the 1.7-mile trail. While the route can take as little as an hour, you'll want to have a break between visits to check out the eclectic boutiques, galleries and restaurants serving internationally inspired cuisine. You might even want to hit up a few breweries and sample a cold brew or two.

Speaking of beer, Asheville has the bragging rights to more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city. The town was named the first Beer City in the U.S. in 2009, and it has been widely known as one of the top beer cities in the country ever since. People come to Asheville for "beercations" devoted to all things craft beer. There is also a long list of annual beer festivals hosted in Asheville throughout the year, including Asheville Oktoberfest, the Burning Can Fest in August and to ring in the new year, the New Year's Eve Keg Drop at Biltmore Park.

Visitors to Asheville also have access to many outdoor adventure activities like hiking, biking, mountain climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fly-fishing and whitewater rafting. And when it comes to dining , this mountain town has one of the most creative and inspiring culinary communities. You'll find everything from cuisine focused on using locally sourced and foraged foods and artisan ingredients to top-notch Italian, Spanish, Indian and Mexican cuisine and more. And don't forget the Southern-inspired spots serving up great barbecue, house-made charcuterie, fried chicken, pimento cheese and biscuits with red-eye gravy.

For accommodations, plan to reserve a room at Kimpton Hotel Arras. This upscale property sits in the middle of downtown in Pack Square, where you can walk to many restaurants, cafes, breweries, galleries and shops. The property is also pet-friendly.

[See more of Asheville: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Biltmore Estate: Asheville

If you're traveling to Asheville and want to visit Biltmore Estate while in town, you should add a few extra days to your vacation to explore the 8,000-acre property and grounds. Historic Biltmore House is known as "America's Largest Home," and it's the former residence of George and Edith Vanderbilt. If you want to stay close to all the activities, there are several options for accommodations on the property, including the casual Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate or the luxurious Inn on Biltmore Estate . For more privacy, you can book one of the four newly updated, historic Cottages on Biltmore Estate. You can even customize your stay in the cottages with a concierge and a private chef.

There are always seasonal events, special art collections and rotating exhibits at Biltmore. Christmas is especially festive with the house decked out in all its holiday splendor. There are also special Candlelit Christmas Evenings reminiscent of the Vanderbilt family's first Christmas at Biltmore in 1895. Many tour options are available to see the house and grounds and engage in activities around the estate.

For a different look at what life was like at Biltmore with the Vanderbilts, book the intimate (maximum 12 guests) Biltmore House Backstairs Tour. This excursion visits rarely seen parts of the house and gives insight into the lives of the people that worked at the estate. Reviews from travelers that visit Biltmore say the architecture, grounds and a glimpse into the opulence of the gilded age at Biltmore make the attraction a must-see when visiting Asheville.

Other special on-site activities include horseback or horse and carriage rides around the grounds. You can also explore the estate with an off-road Land Rover Experience, go fly-fishing with an Orvis-endorsed guide or take a river float trip on the French Broad River . And if that's not enough outdoor action, try your hand at archery or sporting clays or even the ancient art of falconry with these incredible birds of prey. If you've come to Biltmore for a getaway to relax for a few days, you can book a spa treatment or participate in wellness activities, such as morning yoga or a mindfulness walk.

What's more, the on-site winery offers complimentary tastings where you can sample Biltmore wines. Meanwhile, the wide selection of restaurants at the Biltmore's restaurants offer everything from casual and pub fare to a more formal experience – in true Vanderbilt style – at The Dining Room at the Inn.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Known as "America's Favorite Scenic Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway is a winding 469-mile road that connects the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are four main entrances to the parkway in the Asheville area and 252 picturesque miles to explore in Western North Carolina. You can choose to drive the route by car or go hiking on some of the best trails in the U.S. You can also head out for an adventurous bike ride or even take a bike tour with a local outfitter.

If you decide to go hiking, there are plenty of options with easy, short trails or more demanding treks. And no matter which trail best suits your hiking skills, you may be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the mountains and even dramatic waterfalls along the way.

After exploring the area by car, on foot or by bike, don't miss two of the top spots to visit on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Craggy Gardens at milepost 364.4 sits at 5,640 feet elevation. This stop features the National Park Service visitor center and other facilities, such as a gift shop and restrooms. And Mount Mitchell , at the 355.4 milepost, is the tallest mountain peak east of the Mississippi River, with its summit at 6,684 feet. Travelers to the parkway say it's one of the most beautiful drives in the country with incredible sunsets, stunning overlook views and numerous waterfalls.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most-visited national park in the U.S. Located in Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee, the park encompasses 520,000 acres (or 800 square miles) of natural beauty, thundering waterfalls and abundant wildlife. The park is also known for the striking blue mist over its peaks and valleys, which inspires the Great Smoky Mountains name. If you're staying in Asheville, the main western entrance to the park at Oconaluftee Visitor Center is approximately 55 miles from town. The visitor center is where you'll find a collection of historic log buildings. It's also one of the best places to view the park's elk herd. While there, visit nearby Mingus Mill – a grist mill dating back to 1886.

Cataloochee Valley is another great spot for elk viewing. You'll also find an old church, farmhouse and one-room schoolhouse built by the homesteaders that first settled the area. For hikers, there are three popular hiking trails: Midnight Hole, Mouse Creeks Falls and the more challenging Mount Cammerer at Big Creek. And if you're up for even more adventure, head over to the overlook at Newfound Gap for picturesque views or visit the observation tower on Clingmans Dome , the highest summit in the Smokies at 6,643 feet elevation. Visitors to the park say that it's beautiful to see in every season, especially in the fall. They also mention that there are trails for all levels of hikers.

[See more of Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Things to Do | When to Visit | Photos ]

Situated along a plateau in the southern Appalachian Mountains and along the Eastern Continental Divide, Highlands sits at 4,118 feet elevation in the Nantahala National Forest. The charming mountain town in North Carolina offers plenty of outdoor adventure options, with many hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls and fly-fishing in 107 miles of rivers and streams brimming with rainbow, brown and wild brook trout. You'll also find scenic UTV tours and aerial thrills like zip lining and ropes courses at Highlands Aerial Park, just a short drive from town.

In Highlands, visitors will also find a vibrant cultural arts scene, with exhibits, art classes and events hosted at The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts. Music and theater are also a large part of the community with the annual Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival, operatic Bel Canto Recitals, summer outdoor concerts and live theater performances.

For luxury accommodations, Old Edwards Inn and Spa is a Relais & Châteaux property located in the heart of town. The hotel puts guests within walking distance of the upscale shops, galleries, restaurants and Satulah Mountain Brewing Co., the first post-prohibition legal brewery in Macon County, North Carolina. After a day exploring the outdoors or browsing the boutiques, book a rejuvenating or relaxing spa treatment at the hotel's on-site European-inspired spa.

Grandfather Mountain: Linville

Grandfather Mountain sits at 5,946 feet elevation in the northwest part of the state and is part of the United Nations' Southern Appalachian Biosphere Reserve. The North Carolina mountain is estimated to be approximately 300 million years old, with some rock formations dating back as far as 1.2 billion years. One-third of the park is operated as a tourist attraction under the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, Inc., with proceeds going toward preserving the mountain. The remaining land is undeveloped and owned by the state as Grandfather Mountain State Park.

One highlight of a visit to the mountain is the panoramic view from the 228-foot-long Mile High Swinging Bridge, one of the highest suspension footbridges in the U.S. at an elevation of 5,305 feet. Adventure-seekers can also take the short hike along the Bridge Trail that goes beneath the bridge, or there are other routes to explore at the mountain. During your visit, you can also tour the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, which houses interactive exhibits and educational activities.

Tickets are required for entry to Grandfather Mountain and its attractions, and previous visitors highly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance. The park also assigns time slots for entry. Once you're in the park, you can drive to most of the daily programs and activities, the Wilson Center, the Nature Museum and visit the wildlife habitats. Parking is available close to the Mile High Swinging Bridge. If you're planning a full day at the park, bring a picnic lunch, or you can grab casual bites at Mildred's Grill.

Visitors to Grandfather Mountain say it's beautiful, but it can be windy, especially for a walk on the suspension bridge. For nearby accommodations, check out The Lodge at River Run in Banner Elk.

The Blowing Rock: Blowing Rock

Known as North Carolina's oldest travel attraction and one of the top destinations in the North Carolina mountains, The Blowing Rock has been welcoming travelers since 1933. The ancient rock, created during the formation of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is actually a jagged cliff at 4,000 feet above sea level overlooking Johns River Gorge at 3,000 feet below. And from the precipitous ledge, you can also see Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock in the southwest and Grandfather Mountain and Mount Mitchell to the west.

In the winter months, The Blowing Rock experiences a peculiar occurrence – snow falls upside down. This phenomenon, which is how the rock got its name, is caused by a flume formed by the rocky walls of the gorge. The strong northwest winds produced in the flume are powerful enough to return light objects dropped into the void.

A half-mile self-guided path around The Blowing Rock includes a nature trail and a picnic area. The attraction is also pet-friendly for leashed animals and about 70% accessible for visitors with mobility concerns. Travelers comment that the views from above are worth the visit and they also appreciate the friendly staff. After your visit, head over to Blowing Rock Brewery and Ale House Restaurant for a craft beer paired with a local Carolina bison burger. If you're planning to stay and explore more of the area, make reservations at Westglow Resort & Spa, an intimate Relais & Châteaux property in Blowing Rock.

Nantahala Outdoor Center: Bryson City

The Nantahala Outdoor Center hosts more than 1 million guests annually for various land- and river-based activities and excursions. Founded in 1972 as a small motel and gas station situated along the Nantahala River, NOC is now one of the largest outdoor recreation facilities in the U.S. It's also a place where Olympic athletes come to train and practice. There are almost too many adrenaline-pumping activities to choose from at NOC, with many activities offered in other towns in North Carolina and other states like Tennessee and Georgia.

In Bryson City, top thrills include guided Nantahala River rafting, mountaintop zip line tours, a zip line adventure park and more. You can also purchase an adventure pass that gives you access to multiple excursions throughout the day. If you're a serious outdoor adventurer, you might also be interested in the facility's courses, which cover everything from paddling instruction classes to wilderness survival. Reviewers of the facility say that it's an incredible experience and comment that "you only live once" so you should take the chance to enjoy these adventurous activities.

Bryson City

If you're visiting the Nantahala Outdoor Center for its adventure activities, plan to add a day or two to explore Bryson City. Situated along the Tuckasegee River, this laid-back community has quite a bit to offer for its small size with craft galleries, bookstores, fly-fishing shops, a history museum, an aquarium, many restaurants and more.

While in town, you might even want to book a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. One excursion, departing from Bryson City, makes a four-hour, 32-mile round-trip journey filled with beautiful scenery to the village of Dillsboro, where you can stop to check out another local North Carolina brewery. Along the way, you'll also see the train wreck from the set from "The Fugitive," the 1993 action movie starring Harrison Ford.

For accommodations, The Everett Hotel is an excellent choice. This historic landmark was originally built in 1905 as the Bryson City Bank. At the end of the day, when it's time to relax, the property features a rooftop terrace with a fireplace that offers sweeping city and mountain views. And for dinner, try the cozy bistro downstairs that serves locally sourced beef and fresh Carolina Mountain trout.

Pisgah National Forest: Asheville

Pisgah National Forest boasts more than 500,000 acres of old-growth forests, with nearly 100,000 acres that once belonged to George W. Vanderbilt. When Vanderbilt's wife, Edith, sold the lands to the U.S. government in 1914 after her husband's death, this created the first national forest east of the Mississippi River. Pisgah is also home to the first school of forestry in the U.S. Travelers can visit the Cradle of Forestry in America historic site in the park, which features historic buildings, guided walks, living history interpreters, an old logging train and the Forest Discovery Center.

A popular drive for visitors to Pisgah National Forest is the 15-mile Forest Heritage Scenic Byway (U.S. Highway 276). Along this route, you'll find the Cradle of Forestry Historic site, Sliding Rock natural waterslide and Glass Falls and Moore Cove Falls. If you're an experienced hiker, you'll want to plan a visit to the forest, as the highest peaks in the eastern part of the U.S. are located in Pisgah.

Another top attraction is the North Carolina Arboretum , which boasts acres of trails and cultivated gardens with beautiful plants and flowers. Hikers and mountain bikers will want to check out the Lake Powhatan Recreation Area (in the center of Bent Creek Experimental Forest), Black Balsam Knob and Graveyard Fields. And if you're staying in Asheville, you can catch close-up views of Mount Pisgah, just 10 miles south of town on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Travelers say the area is beautiful with lots of trails, waterfalls and places to camp. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch for your visit so you can take a break from driving or hiking and relax and enjoy the views.

Sugar Mountain Resort: Sugar Mountain

If you're an alpine sports enthusiast, North Carolina's mountains have options for outdoor winter adventures, too. Located approximately 110 miles northwest of Charlotte International Airport and close to the mountain communities of Boone and Blowing Rock, Sugar Mountain Resort is a top-rated ski area in the state. It is North Carolina's largest ski resort and features the highest vertical drop within the state. It's also known for having a good variety of terrain and more advanced runs than the state's other ski areas. Since snow is not as reliable in North Carolina as it is in other parts of the U.S., it's best to check the snow conditions before you go. Reviews from travelers are mixed with some visitors having a great experience, while others say the lines are long, it can be crowded and the facilities need updating.

On days when you aren't skiing, try an exhilarating 700-foot-long tubing ride down the mountain, take a few spins around the ice skating rink or go on a guided snowshoe tour through the resort's winter wonderland. The resort also hosts special events throughout the year, including New Year's Eve festivities with an alpine torch parade and fireworks to ring in the new year at midnight. And for more mountain fun, check out the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster. The first of its kind in the North Carolina mountains, the coaster – a combination toboggan and roller coaster – reaches speeds of up to 27 mph on 360-degree loops.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in North Carolina
• The Best Beaches in North Carolina
• The Top Hikes in Asheville
• The Best Restaurants in Raleigh
• The Best Places to Visit in the Carolinas
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• The Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA
• The Top Lakes in Virginia
• The Top Lakes in Tennessee

Tags: Travel , North Carolina Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

15 Best Places to Visit in Georgia — From Charming Mountain Towns to Sandy Beaches

The best places to visit in Georgia range from bustling college towns to barrier islands with wild horses and unspoiled beaches.

While the state of Georgia may be synonymous with peaches and resounding chants of “Go Dawgs,” it’s also a region filled with history, charming small towns , bustling cities, and an incredible amount of biodiversity. There’s a high chance you’ve found yourself passing through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport — it is the busiest airport in the world , after all — but you’ll need to make your way outside of the terminals in order to experience the quaint bookstores of Savannah and the adrenaline-pumping hikes in Tallulah Gorge. During the hot, muggy summer months, nothing beats a dip in Lake Oconee or an oceanfront breeze on Tybee Island . 

With so many amazing places within Georgia’s nearly 60,000 square miles, it can be hard to narrow down your must-see list — so we did it for you. From the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains to the picturesque beaches of the Golden Isles, here are the best places to visit in Georgia.

Famous for its highly walkable Historic Landmark District, Savannah is one of those rare cities that’s just as beautiful in person as it is in stylized, perfectly lit pictures. Its cobbled streets, tree-lined squares and parks, and gorgeous 18th and 19th-century buildings make it one of the South’s most photogenic cities — not to mention, its culinary scene is one of the best in the region. Be sure to grab an espresso from The Paris Market Cafe , pick up a new novel from E Shaver Booksellers , go on a ghost tour , and tuck into a meal at Chef Mashama Bailey’s The Grey .

You don’t need to be a die-hard University of Georgia fan to visit Athens, although we wouldn’t recommend going during football season if you’re rooting for the other team. Outside of sports, the college town has a lively music scene, numerous craft breweries, and a variety of family-friendly activities, including the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and Bear Hollow Zoo .

Lake Oconee

A boat day is the perfect antidote to Georgia’s humid summers, and you’ll find plenty of respite from the oppressive heat on Lake Oconee. Halfway between Atlanta and Augusta, the man-made lake offers opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing, and water sports. It’s also the backdrop for the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee , which hosts the Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival every year.

Cumberland Island

Accessible only by ferry or boat (although public docking is temporarily prohibited), Cumberland Island is one of the most majestic places on the East Coast . Wild horses, historic ruins, long stretches of untouched beaches, marshes, and maritime forests can be found on the 9,800 acres of Congressionally designated wilderness. Its remoteness and sheer beauty were, no doubt, two of the reasons it served as John F. Kennedy, Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s wedding locale in 1996.

It’ll take more than just one trip to hit all of Atlanta’s hot spots, so return visits are recommended if you want to see everything the capital city has to offer. First-timers, however, should make sure to reserve tickets to the Georgia Aquarium (the largest aquarium in the United States), have a meal at Ponce City Market , check out a Braves game at Truist Park, and stop by the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park , which includes the home where the Civil Rights leader was born, the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the resting place of both King and his wife, Coretta Scott King.

You’ll only need to drive about an hour north of Atlanta to make it to Dahlonega, the site of America’s first gold rush and the setting of quite a few Christmas movies . The small town lies in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its charm leaks into every aspect of the area — from its art galleries and boutiques to its various wineries and vineyards. Dahlonega is also in the heart of Georgia’s wine country, boasting incredible spots like Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery , Wolf Mountain , and Montaluce Winery & Restaurant .

Each of Georgia’s Golden Isles has a distinct personality, and Sea Island is, by far, the grandest of the four. Resort reservations are required to get past the gates (unless you’re a Sea Island Club member), but once you do, you’ll find complete paradise. The Cloister at Sea Island is probably the most recognizable sight on the 5-mile-long island, but there are also pristine beaches, championship golf courses, a tennis club, and a world-class clay shooting school.

Jekyll Island

In the winter months of the Industrial Age, the Rockefellers, Morgans, and Vanderbilts (among other wealthy families) ventured to Jekyll Island . Today, its draw is still strong, thanks to its stunning landscape, culinary feats, and concerted effort to preserve the land. Whether you’re staying at the storied Jekyll Island Club Resort or pitching a tent at the Jekyll Island Campground , the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and the otherworldly Driftwood Beach deserve spots on your itinerary.

When the mountains are calling, a trip to Blue Ridge, Georgia just might be the answer. Like many mountain towns, Blue Ridge has a thriving arts scene as well as seemingly endless outdoor activities. If you’d prefer to explore the area by train, hop on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway at the historic depot downtown for an out-and-back adventure along the Toccoa River.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Georgia’s mountains refuse to be overshadowed by its spectacular beaches, so it’s no wonder millions of travelers make their way to the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest every year. Encompassing nearly 867,00 acres, the national forest is home to miles of freshwater streams and rivers, waterfalls, numerous campgrounds, and plenty of space to hike and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Every spring, fans of the “greatest game ever played” descend upon the city of Augusta and, more specifically, the Augusta National Golf Club. Washing down one of the famous pimento cheese sandwiches with an Azalea cocktail is basically a requirement of attending the Masters, but you can also find quintessential Southern cuisine outside of the golf club. Frog Hollow Tavern , Beck’s , and Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar frequently make the “best of” Augusta restaurant lists.

Tybee Island

A 20-minute drive will take you from Savannah to Tybee Island, one of the best beach towns in the South . Here, you’ll find miles of bike-friendly beaches, unparalleled sunsets, and Georgia’s tallest (and oldest) lighthouse. House rentals are easy to find, but if you’re just visiting for the weekend, book a room at the historic, recently renovated 17th Street Inn .

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Tallulah Gorge State Park is rife with heart-pumping activities, including hiking along the two-mile Tallulah Gorge. One of the most popular trails includes a staircase descent to an 80-foot suspension bridge crossing over the Tallulah River. If you’re there in the autumn, your views of the powerful river and waterfalls will be accented by the colorful foliage that covers the region.

25 miles of shoreline outline Georgia’s Lake Rabun, an isolated body of water surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. While the phrase “stepping back in time” may be clichéd, it’s also accurate — especially if you take into account the flotilla of vintage wooden boats that traverse the lake.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is located in the southeastern corner of Georgia, just north of Florida. The 680-square-mile wilderness can be explored by foot or by boat (guests can rent canoes and kayaks), but no inch of the refuge is the same. No matter which area you choose to visit — the forested cypress swamps or the wet "prairies" — you’ll probably see at least one of the 15,000 alligators who call the Okefenokee Swamp home.

For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

Kruglino weather in May (Moscow region, Russia)

Curious about the May weather in Kruglino? Wondering if it's the right time to visit? Browse this page for a comprehensive overview of the weather conditions for that month.

In May, Kruglino generally has pleasant temperatures and moderate rainfall. Throughout the daytime, temperatures often hover around 19°C . However, as the sun sets and evening approaches, there's a noticeable cool-down, with temperatures gently dropping to a more temperate 8°C .

Kruglino in May usually receives moderate rainfall, averaging around 69 mm for the month. Rain is expected on roughly 13 days.

With around 265 hours of sunshine, the days are mostly sunny. It gives a pleasant and vibrant feel to the area.

In case you lean more towards enjoying temperate temperatures and rain-free days June , July and August typically offer the most optimal weather. In contrast, January , February , March , October , November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.

For an in-depth look at the yearly conditions, visit our specialized Kruglino climate page with graphs .

Kruglino, monthly averages in May

Where to go in russia in may.

So, what should you wear in Kruglino in May?

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do in May.

Interested in more climate information?

Weather and Climate provides you with all the information you need about the climate in Kruglino .

Our site offers climate and forecast data for every country in the world. Are you going to Russia ? On this website you can find historical weather averages for many cities in Russia . Not sure yet where to go? We now have a tool which recommends destinations that suit your ideal climate conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner .

Travel Inspiration

Be amazed by the Altai mountains

The Atlai mountains are a sparsely populated area that most tourists have not yet discovered. Definitely bucket list material for the adventurous travelers among us.

Visit the Kamchatka Peninsula

One of the most enchanting areas of Russia is the Kamchatka peninsula. It is how the earth must have looked like in prehistoric times.

The train journey from Bucharest to Brasov is one of the most beautiful in Romania

In three hours, you'll get from Bucharest to Brasov by train. It is one of the most beautiful routes in Romania, certainly the most beautiful that can be done by express train.

The 10 most charming villages in France

Discover France's top 10 beautiful villages. From Normandy to the Côte d'Azur, experience quaint squares and cobbled streets. Which one will you visit this summer?