May is one of the best times to travel, offering mild weather, longer days, and far fewer crowds, making it ideal for discovering some of my favorite places. I’ve explored destinations across the country during this month, and each felt truly special, bursting with spring beauty and energy.
Whether you’re craving peaceful nature, vibrant cities, or coastal charm, May brings the perfect balance of warmth and comfort—ideal for those unforgettable getaways before the peak season rush begins.
Annapolis, Maryland
In May, I found Annapolis, Maryland to be one of the most charming and quaint escapes in the North USA, with mild weather and vibrant festivals like the May Day Flower Basket Celebration, the First Sunday Arts Festivals, and the iconic Naval Academy Commissioning Week all bringing the historic downtown to life. The colonial town vibe mixes beautifully with nautical charm, especially as the sailing season kicks off—perfect for scenic boat tours in the bay without the summer rush.
I loved wandering through blooming gardens, tasting maple mustard glazed pretzels at Forward Brewing, and sipping craft beer at the city’s first nano brewery with a pint of Movin’ Cosmos. The Maryland Craft Beer Festival and lively pubs around City Dock added to the laid-back and friendly feel, while cozy cafes, independent boutiques, and farm-to-table eateries gave it that upscale, yet romantic flair.
Location: Maryland, East Coast, South East, North East
Map Location: Provided at the main Visitor Centre Address
Vibe: Historic, upscale, and nautical with a vibrant atmosphere
Average Temperature: 18°C – 24°C
My favorite highlight: Staying at the elegant 1313 West Luxury Boutique Hotel, I enjoyed slow mornings with fresh coffee, then walked to the Anne Arundel County Farmers Market for local flavors and sunshine.
Block Island, Rhode Island
Few places offer the kind of peaceful and scenic escape that Block Island does during a spring vacation, especially when the crowds are light and the weather is mild and breezy—perfect for peaceful bike rides along scenic coastal roads or birdwatching at the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge, where migratory birds pass through this time of year. I found the vibe to be wonderfully windswept, with touches of Victorian charm and a quirky-chic appeal that made every moment feel effortless and calming.
I stayed at the cozy Block Island Beach House, just steps from Crescent Beach, and explored Greenway trails, browsed local art and handcrafted sea-glass bracelets at The Glass Onion, and admired independent films and documentaries at the film festival. The views from the Mohegan Bluffs and the Southeast Lighthouse were dramatic and unforgettable, while the Spring Street Gallery, art galleries, clothes stores, and boutiques in New Shoreham gave the whole trip a creative energy.
Location: Rhode Island, East Coast, North USA, North East
Map Location: Available through the Visitor Centre Address and directions on the island
Vibe: Peaceful, coastal, and artsy with a local feel
Average Temperature: 10°C
My favorite highlight: My walk through the nature trails after a sunny ferry ride from Newport, followed by browsing at the charming boutiques, left me feeling like I had found a secret place untouched by time.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The moment I landed at Philadelphia International Airport, I knew the city had awakened with spring weather and a mix of blooming tulips, cherry blossoms, and lively events. I stayed in Fishtown, a hip neighborhood known for its boho-chic decor, trendy eateries, and cool shops, and spent three days exploring historic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, strolling through Old City, and relaxing in Rittenhouse Square under sun-drenched skies.
The vibe here is both gritty-yet-cultured and incredibly local, especially during the South 9th Street Italian Market Festival, Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival, and Philadelphia Beer Week. Outdoor dining, bustling beer gardens, and the musical Roots Picnic at Mann Center made the city’s food scene and street life unforgettable. I loved the under-the-radar feel and appreciated the fewer crowds, along with fantastic hotel deals at the stylish 4-star boutique Lokal Hotel, where they offer a unique remote invisible service for a truly private stay.
Location: Pennsylvania, Mid-Atlantic, East Coast, North USA
Map Location: Details available at the official Visitor Centre Address
Vibe: Vibrant, local, and full of arts and personality
Average Temperature: 18°C – 24°C
My favorite highlight: Wandering through Morris Arboretum during golden hour, just as the gardens were at their peak, felt like walking through a living canvas of spring.
Ocean City, Maryland
With its iconic boardwalk, expansive beach, and early vibrant events, Ocean City was a refreshing surprise. The weather was warm but comfortable, and the humidity was still manageable, giving me the chance to fully enjoy activities like jet skiing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding without the peak summer bustle.
I stayed at the funky SeaLoft Oceanfront Hotel after a two hour 45 minute drive from Philadelphia and joined locals at Springfest, which buzzed with live music, fresh food, and arts and crafts by the shore. I also went on a dolphin-watching cruise, spotted sea turtles during the loggerhead nesting season, and visited Assateague Island to see the legendary wild ponies. Whether it was biking the Northside Park trails or exploring green spaces, this family-friendly Atlantic resort town had it all.
Location: Maryland, Mid-Atlantic, South USA
Map Location: Available from the main Visitor Centre Address
Vibe: Scenic, beach resort, and full of funky, laid-back energy
Average Temperature: 15°C – 25°C
My favorite highlight: Watching dolphins leap alongside the boat near Assawoman Bay while the sky faded into soft spring colors—completely magical.
Edisto Island, South Carolina
For a peaceful week away from the noise, Edisto Island gave me that rare, untouched coastal retreat feel—where salt marshes, bald cypress trees, and swamp lilies lined the hiking trails, and the vibe was truly laid-back. I started my vacation flying into Charleston International Airport (CHS) and drove the scenic byway to this rustic gem in the South USA, where I enjoyed quiet walks along the peaceful shoreline, glimpses of loggerhead sea turtles during their nesting season, and gentle paddles through the Edisto River on a guided eco-tour boat.
From the vibrant Turtlefest and Turtle Tide Art Reveal, to browsing fresh finds at the Wednesday Markets in Bay Creek Park, the mix of educational activities, art displays, and artisan farms during the Ag + Art Tour created a community vibe I didn’t expect. The untouched beauty of Botany Bay Plantation was a highlight, reminding me why the island’s preserved beauty is so cherished.
Location: South Carolina, Southeast, East Coast, South USA
Map Location: Provided through the Visitor Centre Address and directions locally
Vibe: Quiet, family-friendly, and a scenic beach and art destination
Average Temperature: 24°C – 29°C
My favorite highlight: Kayaking through the tea-colored waters, surrounded by Spanish moss and birdsong, felt like paddling through a living painting.
Sacramento, California
A quick 6 hours from Los Angeles brought me to Sacramento, where the spring air was warm and the parks were alive with blooming flowers, giving the capital city its vibrant pulse. Known for its farm-to-fork culture, I dined al fresco at Mulvaney’s B&L, indulging in Wild Ramp & Potato Ravioli on the garden patio—one of many culinary delights I savored during this weekend break.
The Sacramento County Fair, Sacramento Salsa Festival, and free Jazz Music Festival filled the calendar, while walks along the American River Parkway and Old Sacramento Waterfront gave me front-row views of the sunset views over the Sacramento River. I stayed at the 4-star Exchange Hotel, which combined trendy style with historic touches (it was once a firehouse), and appreciated the fewer crowds and great accommodation deals in this pre-summer window.
Location: Northern California, West Coast, West USA
Map Location: Access through the city’s Visitor Centre Address
Vibe: Laid-back, lively, and full of local flavor and energy
Average Temperature: 20°C – 29°C
My favorite highlight: Cycling through blooming trails and winding up at a local farmers’ market, sipping cold brew while soaking in the city buzz.
Bend, Oregon
Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Bend offered the perfect spring trip with its mild weather, lower humidity, and just the right balance of fun events and uncrowded trails. I spent four days soaking up the outdoorsy charm of this trendy, hipster-friendly mountain town, hiking the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park, and rafting the fast-moving Deschutes River, fueled by snow melt.
The city’s sunny patios and riverfront patios were buzzing with energy thanks to the free Bend Spring Festival, the thrilling SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle, and craft brews flowing at the Crux Fermentation Project and along the Bend Ale Trail—where I tasted the crisp Japanese rice lager, Bochi Bochi. With blooming wildflowers, dramatic castle-like rock formations, and nearby adventures in the Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area, Bend was the ideal base for both relaxation and adrenaline.
Location: Oregon, North USA, Pacific Northwest
Map Location: Find full details at the local Visitor Centre Address and directions office
Vibe: Outdoorsy, energetic, and filled with craft beer and nature
Average Temperature: 15°C – 24°C
My favorite highlight: Watching the sun dip behind jagged cliffs after a climb, beer in hand, on a sunny patio with a view that didn’t seem real.
Texas Hill Country
The wild beauty of Texas Hill Country completely surprised me with its rolling hills, bluebonnets, and the sense of space you only find on a scenic drive through Central Texas. I flew into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and dove into a 10 vacation full of swimming in natural pools, river tubing, and cycling past colorful landscapes with fewer crowds than peak season.
Events like the Kerrville Folk Festival, Whimsy & Wonder Art & Music Festival, and the Cinco de Mayo Celebrations filled my calendar, and in between, I sipped wine in Fredericksburg, explored wineries, and stayed at the artistic El Cosmico in Marfa, tucked into a vintage trailer with funky decor. From panoramic hikes at Enchanted Rock to cooling off in the crystal-clear waters of Jacob’s Well, this region blends German heritage, art, and open-sky wonder like no other.
Location: Texas, Central Texas, South Texas, South USA
Map Location: Accessible via location map or from the Visitor Centre Address
Vibe: Scenic, rustic, and quirky, with a soulful art vibe
Average Temperature: 18°C – 29°C
My favorite highlight: Waking up to sunrise through the window of my treehouse and sipping coffee as the first light touched the hills—pure magic.
Savannah, Georgia
Few destinations deliver on charm like Savannah, where flower-filled squares, moss-draped oaks, and shady streets make this Southern city feel like a scene from a romance novel. I flew into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and spent four days wandering the Historic District, where the blooming jasmine, azaleas, and magnolias made every stroll feel like a dream. From live music at the Art & Soul Music Festival in City Market, to family fun at the Doggie Carnival in Forsyth Park, the city’s festivals never missed a beat.
I found reasonable accommodation at The Gastonian, a gorgeous 4-star historic boutique hotel in a Regency-Italianate-style mansion, where complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine hour added extra warmth. Between romantic riverboat cruises on the Savannah River and exploring Bonaventure Cemetery’s gothic beauty, the city’s vibe was both romantic and vibrant—ideal for a spring trip full of alfresco meals, cultural events like the Cinco de Mayo Celebrations, and historical flair.
Location: Georgia, South, Southeast, East Coast, South USA
Map Location: Check at the official Visitor Centre Address for full directions
Vibe: Charming, historic, and undeniably romantic
Average Temperature: 24°C – 29°C
My favorite highlight: That peaceful evening cruise down the Savannah River, watching golden light reflect off the water as the city lit up behind us—pure magic.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park felt like a breath of fresh air with its mild weather, spring rains, and forests bursting with wildflowers, mountain laurels, and lush green foliage. I flew into Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and drove to the Front Royal Entrance, where a scenic climb began.
Hiking the blooming trails of Hawksbill Summit and Dark Hollow Falls, I felt completely immersed in nature, especially during moments of Twilight Hiking under tunnel-like canopies of oak, maple trees, and hickory. The peaceful hum of wildlife-watching, glimpses of black bears, and the sound of flowing waterfalls made every step feel surreal. Festivals like the Shenandoah Memorial Festival added a cultural touch to the adventure.
Location: Virginia, Mid-Atlantic, East Coast, South USA
Map Location: Refer to the park website or Visitor Centre Address for directions
Vibe: Scenic, peaceful, and a perfect mountain escape
Average Temperature: 16°C – 24°C
My favorite highlight: Driving Skyline Drive during golden hour, where the road curved gently through endless forest with views I’ll never forget.
Monterey, California
My spring road trip down Highway One led me to Monterey, a quirky coastal city that’s bursting with personality and unforgettable ocean views. With fewer crowds, coastal weather that’s cool and clear, and tons of spring events, I spent a long weekend enjoying everything from whale watching in Monterey Bay to browsing vibrant art at the Monterey Biennial and Monterey Museum of Art.
I stayed at the 4-star Portola Hotel & Spa, where I was greeted with a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie, and warmed up each evening by their outdoor fire pits after days of exploring. Highlights included watching wild sea otters and seals along coastal trails, wandering blooming gardens in Pacific Grove, tasting my favorite Custard Bread Pudding on Cannery Row, and catching performances at the California Roots Music and Arts Festival and the colorful 805 Night Market.
Location: California, Central Coast, Central California, West Coast, West USA
Map Location: Details available via local Visitor Centre Address and directions
Vibe: Laid back, seaside town with quirky charm and chic decor
Average Temperature: 10°C – 18°C
My favorite highlight: Standing at Point Lobos, watching humpback whales rise from the water under less fog and stunning views that felt almost otherworldly.
Yosemite National Park, California
Arriving just as the snowmelt fed powerful waterfalls, Yosemite unfolded in full spring glory, with mild weather, endless blooming wildflowers, and scenic roads that had just reopened for the season. My five days here were packed with outdoor activities, from hiking the iconic Mirror Lake Loop and climbing to Glacier Point, to biking through Cook’s Meadow beneath the shadows of El Capitan and Half Dome.
Each trail offered photo-worthy views, especially from Tunnel View off State Highway 41, and the serene beauty of Yosemite Falls at peak flow was unlike anything I’d seen. I even caught sight of wildlife (including active bears) in the more peaceful areas of the park. From rafting near Tioga Pass to camping under starlit skies, this majestic wilderness in Eastern Central California exceeded every expectation.
Location: California, Eastern Central California, West Coast, West USA
Map Location: Refer to official park location map and directions
Vibe: Awe-inspiring, nature-focused, and truly breathtaking
Average Temperature: 16°C – 24°C
My favorite highlight: Standing alone at Tunnel View at dusk, soaking in an Instagram-worthy panorama of Yosemite Valley that left me speechless.
Austin, Texas
A long weekend in Austin offered the perfect burst of live music, bold flavors, and sunny skies, making this vibrant city a top choice for outdoor adventures in May. From paddle-boarding on Lady Bird Lake to exploring the blooming paths of Zilker Botanical Garden, every corner of Central Texas had something going on. I landed at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and dove right into a lineup of unforgettable festivals—including the iHeartCountry Festival, ILLfest, the energetic Fiesta Austin Cinco de Mayo, and the funky Spring Pecan Street Festival.
Staying at the stylish LINE Hotel, I loved the industrial-chic decor, the rooftop pool with panoramic Lady Bird Lake views, and the chance to sample quirky bites like the Hot & Crunchy Avocado Cone from Mighty Cone at The Picnic food cart pod. The city’s awesome restaurants, trendy shops, and crowd-favorite sweets like the Double Dose chocolate cake from Hey Cupcake added a sweet edge to the whole experience.
Location: Texas, Central Texas, South USA
Map Location: Accessible via location map or Visitor Centre Address for directions
Vibe: Energetic, trendy, and rich with cultural festivals and fun
Average Temperature: 18°C – 29°C
My favorite highlight: Catching sunset views from the rooftop pool before heading downtown to dance to true Texas tunes under the stars.
Wolfeboro, New Hampshire
Tucked beside Lake Winnipesaukee, Wolfeboro charmed me with its small-town charm, quaint cafes, and peaceful blooming trails—a perfect place to embrace springtime before the summer rush. I flew into Manchester-Boston Regional Airport and drove to this New England gem, where the air was fresh, the mild weather ideal, and the pace slow in all the best ways.
My four days included scenic boat tours, peaceful rides along the Cotton Valley Rail Trail, and browsing the Wolfeboro Area Farmers’ Market and antique stores. The Memorial Day Celebration, the Great Smith River Canoe and Kayak Race, and the Lakes Region Spring Craft Fair created a lively community buzz, while moments on the sandy beach at Brewster Beach or dining lakeside at Garwoods Restaurant (don’t miss the butternut squash ravioli) reminded me why this town is so loved.
Location: New Hampshire, East Coast, North USA, North East
Map Location: Use the official location map or ask locally at the Visitor Centre Address for directions
Vibe: Quaint, peaceful, and rich with historic charm and seasonal charm
Average Temperature: 15°C – 20°C
My favorite highlight: Watching the sunset ripple across the lake views with a glass of wine in hand and nothing but quiet around me.
Port Aransas, Texas
Nestled on Mustang Island, Port Aransas gave me that classic beach town escape with a laid-back island atmosphere, where Gulf waters shimmered under warm weather and the sandy shores were less crowded—perfect for a weeklong trip filled with sun and smiles. I flew into Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP) and drove along Highway 361 to this early-season getaway, where I stayed in reasonably priced accommodation just steps from Port Aransas Beach.
The town buzzed with colorful events like the Spring Kite Fly, the splashy Color Splash Dash, and the vibrant PalmFest Summer of Music, while nature lovers (like me) flocked to the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center with its wetland boardwalk and alligator-inhabited wetlands. My favorite moment was taking a dolphin-watching tour with The Scarlet Lady, spotting playful dolphins, seabirds, and passing by the iconic Lydia Ann Lighthouse.
Location: Texas, South Texas, Gulf Coast, South USA
Map Location: Details available at the Visitor Centre Address and directions online
Vibe: Relaxed, laid-back, and perfect for a dream vacation
Average Temperature: 24°C – 29°C
My favorite highlight: Standing barefoot on the boardwalk at dusk, sea breeze on my face, watching dolphins leap under pastel skies—it felt timeless.
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta surprised me with its mix of modern energy, historic roots, and a calendar packed with cultural and outdoor festivals during May. I landed at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and spent four days diving into the city’s creative vibe, from the lively Atlanta Jazz Festival to the quirky Atlanta Fringe Festival, and high-energy events like MomoCon and the colorful Atlanta Caribbean Carnival.
Wandering through Piedmont Park, I caught a sunny outdoor music concert, explored the blooming paths of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and strolled the BeltLine under blooming trees. Evenings were made for rooftop bars—especially the one at Hotel Clermont, a boutique 4-star stay full of cool retro vibes and colorful decor. I sipped an Iguana cocktail, enjoyed city views, and topped it off with unique dining at Flight Club, where darts and laughter filled the room.
Location: Georgia, South East, Southeast, South USA
Map Location: Provided via location map or at the Visitor Centre Address for directions
Vibe: Bustling, quirky, and a true Southern metropolis
Average Temperature: 18°C – 27°C
My favorite highlight: Watching sunset from the rooftop bar, cocktail in hand, with the city lights twinkling and music rising from the streets below.
Sanibel Island, Florida
A spring vacation to Sanibel Island gave me the kind of peaceful island escape I didn’t know I needed—just a 40 minutes drive from RSW in Fort Myers, but a world away from noise. With comfortable humidity, fewer crowds, and soft Gulf waters, I biked along scenic trails, collected seashells on Bowman’s Beach, and wandered uncrowded beaches with Instagram-worthy sunsets painting the skies above this tropical island escape.
I stayed at the charming Sanibel Island Beach Resort, where the quick beach access, tropical decor, and laid-back, family-friendly vibe made the trip effortless. Highlights included peaceful bike rides, spotting manatees and birds at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, and browsing the Sanibel Island Farmers Market after attending Islands Night, a community-spirited baseball parade celebration. With BIG ARTS and Shellcrafter’s workshops, the island’s artistic exhibits added color to the days.
Location: Florida, Southwest Florida, Gulf Coast, South USA
Map Location: Accessible at the Visitor Centre Address or check for local directions
Vibe: Relaxing, laid-back, and beautifully tropical
Average Temperature: 21°C – 29°C
My favorite highlight: Watching the golden hour hit the white sand, toes in the surf, while dolphins played beyond the break—it was picture-perfect.
Monument Valley, Arizona
As part of a spontaneous road trip, I found myself in Monument Valley, where towering formations, clear skies, and the vast desert landscape made me feel small in the best way. I drove three hours from Flagstaff and spent two days exploring this iconic stretch of Northern Arizona, where soft spring lighting made every photo pop and the Instagram-worthy sunset at John Ford’s Point was pure magic.
I stayed at The View Hotel, which truly lived up to its name—the balcony offered breathtaking views of the Mittens, Totem Pole, and the wide desert beyond. Between guided hikes on the scenic Wildcat Trail, learning history during the History Hike, and attending the Hashkènìinii Road Race (part of the Tour de Rez), this trip was equal parts adventure and culture. Every mile of the 17-mile Valley Loop Road was its own masterpiece, and Navajo tours added depth to each stop.
Location: Arizona, Northern Arizona, Southwest, West USA, Southwest USA
Map Location: Full details at local centers or Visitor Centre Address for directions
Vibe: Otherworldly, scenic, and deeply iconic
Average Temperature: 16°C – 27°C
My favorite highlight: That still moment on the trail, looking out over the sandstone buttes, wind at my back and silence all around—Monument Valley doesn’t just impress; it humbles.
Las Vegas
Visiting this fun-filled city during a long weekend gave me the perfect mix of energy, indulgence, and iconic experiences—with pre-summer deals, pool parties in full swing, and a lineup of star-studded music residencies that turned the Las Vegas Strip into a non-stop celebration. I drove four hours from Los Angeles and checked into the MGM Grand West Wing, where the sleek dark decor, dim lighting, and even a TV in the bathroom mirror made my stay feel unapologetically bold.
From catching Cirque du Soleil, seeing famous artists at the American Music Awards, to dancing at the Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) and singing along at the Lovers & Friends Festival, there wasn’t a dull moment. I cooled off with a cocktail at the Encore Beach Club, strolled past the Bellagio fountains, explored quirky hotels like New York-New York, and tasted the legendary herby mustard potato salad at Greenberg’s Deli. The city’s fine dining, celebrity chef restaurants, and punk rock bowling scene proved why it’s the ultimate entertainment capital.
Location: Nevada, Southern Nevada, Southwest, West USA, Southwest USA
Map Location: Details and directions available via local Visitor Centre Address
Vibe: High-energy, glitzy, and bursting with world-class events and shows
Average Temperature: 16°C – 32°C
My favorite highlight: Watching the lights shimmer across the strip after dinner at Bellagio, music rising in the air—Las Vegas didn’t just entertain, it completely dazzled.
