Ready to kick off summer a little early? I went looking for the perfect May escape and found places bursting with blooming landscapes, mild weather, and just the right amount of festive energy. These May vacation destinations are ideal if you’re craving sunshine, adventure, and that sweet spot of shoulder-season charm—before the big crowds roll in. If you’re anything like me, you’ll love how refreshing and vibrant this time of year feels.

Highlights:

  • I spent sunny beach days in both the Florida Keys and San Diego—laid-back, beautiful, and never too busy this time of year.
  • In Napa Valley, wildflower hikes and wine tastings made for the perfect mix of nature and indulgence—I could’ve stayed all week.
  • Amsterdam in May completely charmed me with tulip displays, canal-side strolls, and lively cultural festivals everywhere you turn.
  • Asheville gave me fresh mountain air, spring blooms, and the kind of cozy cafés and art scenes I love to stumble upon.
  • And when I wanted something a little more exotic, Greece was unforgettable—crystal-clear waters, sun-drenched islands, and fewer tourists made it feel like a secret worth sharing.

Great Vacations

First: Durham

Durham

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Explore historic tobacco warehouses and savor affordable eats on a fun city trip.                 

Second: Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park

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Hike among hoodoos and admire unusual rock formations on an exciting outdoor adventure.                 

Third: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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Drive misty roads and spot wildlife on a peaceful family nature trip.                 

Fourth: Memphis

Memphis

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Visit Graceland and savor smoky BBQ on a music-filled weekend getaway.                 

Fifth: New York City

New York City

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See iconic sights and explore diverse neighborhoods on an exciting urban adventure.                 

Sixth: Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park

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Walk rainforest trails and discover alpine lakes on a romantic nature trip.                 

Seventh: Philadelphia

Philadelphia

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Tour historic landmarks and taste Philly cheesesteaks during an easy weekend trip.                 

Eight: Sedona

Sedona

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Hike red rocks and enjoy spiritual vibes on a scenic retreat.                 

Ninth: Washington D.C.

Washington D.C.

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Explore free museums and admire monuments on a quick educational family trip.                 

Tenth: Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park

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Marvel at waterfalls and hike granite cliffs on a breathtaking summer escape.                 

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • With the weather warming up, when is the best time to travel?
    • With the weather warming up, May is the perfect time to travel before destinations are overrun by tourists and touristy prices.
  • What are some great travel destinations for the summer?
    • Whether visitors want to stay close to home or head to an exotic location far, far away, we've found some of the greatest places to start the summer with a bang.
  • How can travelers pick the right destination?
    • Picking a destination can get tricky, but depending on whether travelers are looking for a culinary adventure or an isolated getaway, they can head to the World of Coca Cola in Atlanta or the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe.
  • What should travelers do next?
    • There are so many options, so get choosing, packing, and enjoying!

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