Best Places to Visit in May
Searching for the best places to visit in May? Well, you are in the right place! What we love about traveling in May is a chance to pause between the busyness of spring and the rush of summer, and honestly, without the peak-season crowds, pre-Memorial Day May is the best time to get away. We didn't need to have reservations for the most famous attractions, found great deals on hotels, and public transportation wasn't overcrowded. I’ve gathered my favorite May experiences on my four week road trip this month, and I hope you’ll enjoy them too.
- Best Places to Visit in May in the Western USA
- - Folsom, CA - Tombstone - Canby, OR
- Best May Weekend Getaways in the Northeast
- - Kingston, NY - The Berkshires, MA - Colchester, VT
- Best Places to Visit in May in the South
- - Lexington, KY - Pelham, AL
- Best Places to Visit in May in the Midwest
- - Lincoln, NE - Edmond, OK
- Best Places to Visit in May Abroad
- - Mugla (Turkey) - Pula ( Croatia)
Best Places to Visit in May in the Western USA
Springtime in the Western United States, for me, means great road trips, hiking, and dining...basically, enjoying the warmth of approaching summer without all the crowds. Here are the places that stood out the most.
1. Folsom, CA
This is one of the most appealing outdoor destinations I’ve found in Northern California, and I think it’s one of the best May getaways near Sacramento (just 30 minutes by car!). Why? First off, Folsom offers beautiful lakes, miles of scenic trails, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a day-trip. Secondly, I think it's ideal for anyone craving sunshine, water views, and quiet nature without going too far into the mountains. In addition, with May temperatures in the 70s, the weather couldn't have been more perfect.
After flying into Sacramento International (SMF), I drove 40 minutes and spent four days at 3-star Hilton Garden Inn Folsom (from $120/night), exploring boutique shops, free lakeside parks, and the Saturday Farmers Market where I picked up affordable snacks!
We spent our mornings wandering through the Folsom Historic District, which quickly became one of my favorite spots. Afternoons were all about getting outside, and Folsom Lake State Recreation Area completely won me over with its wide-open views and hiking trails.
As a history buff I appreciated how deeply the past is woven into the town, especially while we visited the Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park. We learned about the city’s role in early hydroelectric power which my son especially enjoyed.
We had great burgers at Plank Craft Kitchen + Bar after exploring.
My highlight was sitting outside and listening to live music drifting through the plaza.
2. Tombstone, AZ
This is one of my favorite Old West towns to visit because it blends fascinating history, big blue skies, and that unmistakable Arizona desert charm. In addition, I love that it’s easy to reach from Tucson, a little over an hour by car.
May here meant warm desert sunshine, blooming cactus flowers, and lively reenactments on historic Allen Street - I loved how this Old West town came alive without the peak July summer heat (although the sun was already VERY strong in May and temperatures in high 70s, even 80s!).
I loved my stroll past wooden boardwalks, watching costumed gunfighters stage showdowns, and live entertainment at Big Nose Kate's Saloon, my personal highlight!
3. Canby, OR
In the heart of the Willamette Valley, we discovered this cool town surrounded by lush Northwest scenery. It made for a refreshingly peaceful weekend getaway from Portland this May, with daytime temperatures in the 60s.
We spent the night at the affordalbe 2-star Motel 6 Canby, OR, exploring nurseries, riverside parks, and downtown Canby at.
I loved my walk along the Molalla River State Park trails, crossing the historic Canby Ferry, and dining downtown at Backstop Bar & Grill. I timed my trip for the Canby Wine, Food & Brew Festival, which added lots of fun to my May trip.
The Canby Farmers Market, overflowing with fresh produce, flowers, and artisan goods was my favorite highlight!
Best May Weekend Getaways in the Northeast
While living on the East Coast, May has been my absolute favorite month to travel. I love seeing rows of tulips in gardens and parks, and I enjoy going on scenic drives with Chris and our son.
4. Kingston, NY
Set along the Hudson River with the Catskills in the distance, this is one of the most atmospheric small cities I’ve explored in New York, and I think it’s one of the best under-the-radar weekend getaways north of Manhattan. Why? First off, Kingston offers a mix of galleries, restaurants, and beautifully preserved architecture. In addition, I loved the relaxed, creative vibe worlds away from the city chaos. Finally, May temperatures in this Hudson Valley gem in the 60s are great for walking, with lots of sunny days.
When I moved to New York, I've loved my stroll through the Rondout waterfront, watching sailboats drift along the Hudson, and dining outdoors on the historic Strand -they make great wood-fired pizza in this town at Sorry, Charlie, Picnic Pizza, and Vincenzo's Pizzeria & Ristorante (and a few other places I'm yet to try!).
From New York City, I drove about two hours north along the Hudson and stayed two days at the historic Hotel Kinsley (from $259). I wandered through the Stockade District with its 17th-century Dutch architecture, explored the Hudson River Maritime Museum and Rondout waterfront. May was perfect for strolling the bluffs of Hasbrouck Park, and taking a scenic boat cruise on the Hudson.
Browsing the outdoor farmers’ markets bursting with fresh produce and flower was one of my personal highlights! In addition, we had a lovely family dinner at Ship to Shore... their seasonal strawberry shortcake with fresh whipped cream was the sweet standout of spring!
5. The Berkshires
Spread across the hills of western Massachusetts, this is one of the most enchanting areas I’ve explored in New England while living on the East Coast for 10 years.
From Boston, I drove about two and a half hours west along the Mass Pike and stayed three days at the historic Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge in mid-May, with temperatures in the high 60s during the day. While there, we toured the Norman Rockwell Museum, explored The Mount (Edith Wharton’s stately estate), and visited the gardens of Naumkea. In addition, May was perfect for hiking Monument Mountain and strolling through the Berkshire Botanical Garden, while downtown Great Barrington and Lenox buzzed with cafés, bookstores, and galleries.
Dinner at Old Inn on the Green was my personal highlight... their rhubarb tart with fresh cream was the sweet springtime standout!
6. Colchester, VT
With a superb location on the shores of Lake Champlain, this place charmed with its peaceful lakeside living with classic New England charm when we drove up from my apartment in NYC this May. While it was still too cold to go swimming, we loved the peaceful scenic beaches, calm coves and forested paths. In addition, I loved the relaxed, neighborly feel that’s wonderfully removed from downtown Burlington’s bustle (but only 15 minutes by car which was super convenient!).
From Burlington, I drove just fifteen minutes north and stayed two days at the welcoming Inn at the Round Barn Farm. Once there, I strolled along the Colchester Causeway over Lake Champlain, explored the sandy shores of Malletts Bay, and wandered through the town’s historic green. With temperatures in the 50s and 60s, May was perfect for hiking through Niquette Bay State Park, and browsing local farm stands bursting with early spring produce.
Dining at Rozzi’s Lakeshore Tavern was my personal highlight - their maple bread pudding drizzled with warm caramel sauce was the sweet standout!
Best Places to Visit in May in the South
I love March, April and May in the South! While summers are too hot for hiking and exploring, these spring months are absolutely perfect. Here are my favorite stops this May:
7. Lexington, KY
I thought this was one of the best places to visit in May in the Midwest. We fell for the proud horse-and-bourbon-and-bluegrass heritage, open views and great dining! In fact, I thought that a backdrop of white-fenced pastures summed up everything I love about Kentucky in one compact city!
From Frankfort, I drove about half an hour southeast and stayed two days at the 4-star boutique 21c Museum Hotel that completely won me over with its design. During our visit, we loved touring stately Keeneland and its storied racetrack, explored the Mary Todd Lincoln House and Ashland (Henry Clay’s estate), and browsed art galleries and exhibits at the University of Kentucky Art Museum. I joined a behind-the-scenes distillery tour at Woodford Reserve, and soaked in the energy of the Distillery District. Evenings were all about hearty Southern cooking and craft cocktails. Dining at Carson’s Food & Drink... their bourbon bread pudding with vanilla crème anglaise was the sweet highlight!
Strolling through the Arboretum State Botanical Garden was my favorite highlight.
8. Pelham, AL
This is one of my favorite places to visit in the Birmingham area, and honestly, I thought it was the most perfect May destination when I moved to the South! We loved Pelham's blend of outdoor beauty, small-town comfort, and a relaxed Southern atmosphere.
After flying into Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), I drove 25 minutes and spent four days at the relaxing Hampton Inn & Suites Pelham (around $153/night), exploring nearby wineries, cozy cafés, and the Saturday farmers market.
My hike through Oak Mountain State Park was an absolute delight, especially spotting wildlife along shaded trails. With temperatures in the high-70s and 80s, we dining outdoors with smoky Southern barbecue perfuming the air.
I also timed my trip for the Pelham Palooza Festival, which brought local vendors, live music, and family fun to town!
Catching a live show under the stars at the Oak Mountain Amphitheatre was my personal highlight in Alabama.
Best Places to Visit in May in the Midwest
I've always through that May is a sweet spot for visiting the Midwest! small towns, and outdoor destinations all come alive this month with special events and sunny weather.
9. Edmond, Oklahoma
Ready for a nature- and culture-rich Oklahoma getaway? I was instantly charmed by this vibrant Oklahoma city, with its red-brick downtown, tree-lined neighborhoods, and thriving arts scene!
Just 30-minutes north of Oklahoma City, this place feels both modern and historic, balancing its college-town energy (home to the University of Central Oklahoma!) with a laid-back small-town vibes.
During two nights at Hilton Garden Inn Edmond ($114), we explored public art on the streets and in parks, strolled through the bustling downtown district with its boutique shops and cafes, and admired Western and Native American works at the Armstrong Auditorium.
Catching an outdoor concert at Hafer Park (free) on a warm evening was my personal highlight.
Places to Visit Abroad in May
Here are some international recommendations in May...
10. Lincoln, NE
Set among the prairies of eastern Nebraska, this is an underrated gem in the Midwest, and I think it’s one of the best cultural destinations for a May vacation. I loved that the temperature in "Star City" was in high 60s, low 70s, which was perfect for seeing Sunken Gardens waking up from the winter slumber in early May. While winters can be rough here (especially January and February), springtime in the Midwest is fantastic and made for exploring!
I timed my trip for the Lincoln Marathon & Half, which fills the streets with energy and celebration, my favorite highlight.
Best Places to Visit in May Abroad
I love heading abroad in May, especially around Memorial Day if we can find affordable flights. Here's where Turkey and Croatia both really shine because of lower prices and warm weather in May.
11. Mandarin & Mango Boutique Hotels, Turkey
Located on dramatic cliffs above the Mediterranean Sea (in Turkey!), this getaway has such incredible views that it instantly became one of our favorite romantic escapes!
From Dalaman Airport, I drove 35 miles (about 1 hour) to Fethiye, where the twin Mandarin & Mango Boutique Hotels sit in the hills above the Turquoise Coast.
Our suite for four care-free days had a dreamy four-poster bed, stone walls, and a private terrace where we watched the most spectacular sunsets—it honestly felt like magic. The infinity pool overlooking the sea was another highlight, and we thought it was the absolute best spot to relax together.
What excited us most was the hotel’s unusual location—so close to the famous Butterfly Valley and the Lycian Way trail, yet completely tucked away from the crowds.
The town itself, with a population of about 170,000, is steeped in history. I explored the incredible Lycian rock tombs carved into cliffs in the 4th century BCE, then strolled through Fethiye’s old bazaar, alive with spice stalls and textiles.
In addition, we spent our days hiking, swimming, and exploring, then returned to this tranquil oasis for joyful evenings under the stars.
- Map & Directions
- Check prices at Mandarin & Mango Boutique
What I loved best:
Dinners were exceptional, with fresh local produce, seafood, and Mediterranean flavors served in a romantic open-air setting. We agreed it was one of the most amazing dining experiences we’d had in Turkey.
12. Pula, Croatia
Ready for a history-rich Adriatic escape? Check out Pula, a real standout! We spent two wonderful weeks in an Airbnb in this seaside city with a laid-back, small-town vibe, ancient Roman ruins, and a backdrop of Adriatic blue!
From Trieste, we drove about an hour and a half south along the coast, toured the magnificent Roman Arena, explored the Temple of Augustus and Arch of the Sergii, and strolled the marble-paved streets of the Old Town.
May was perfect for wandering along the waterfront promenade (with temperatures in the high 60s and 70s), relaxing on pebble beaches, and savoring the first hints of summer without the high-season crowds. Best of all, prices were still very reasonable in May so we could stay longer.
I think that Croatia is one of the best places you can visit abroad in May! Browsing local markets brimming with olive oils, truffles, and wines, and soaked in the sunsets over the Adriatic was my favorite highlight.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
