May In The USA: 11 Astounding Locations You Should Visit

The United States of America is a bucket list destination for so many. Shawn has not stopped talking about his time spent working in the country. With so many amazing cities, gorgeous national parks and a horde of different activities to choose from, narrowing down on a location to travel to is just plain hard!

I always thought that this was an issue that I faced as a tourist. Turns out it is a problem even with people who have lived in their entire lives in the country.

The best way to go about selecting a location is to search by month. That way you can choose which location based on the weather, the festivals, the activities and even the crowds.

We’ve been putting together guides to traveling the USA based on months and have had locals and travel experts weigh in on the best locations. This particular post is dedicated to all the amazing locations to spend May in the USA but don’t forget to check out our other months!

1. Yellowstone, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho

Yellowstone is one amazing place to spend May in the USA.

Location: Yellowstone is in the western United States, with parts of the park in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.

Getting There: The closest airport to Yellowstone National Park is the West Yellowstone Airport. It is a short 35-minute drive to the west entrance. This is a very small airport, so you will have many connections and flights may be more expensive.

Some other airports to look into are Salt Lake City, Jackson, or Bozeman. Salt Lake City is the closest international airport to Yellowstone National Park.

Where to Stay: There are many great places to stay near Yellowstone. Staying inside the park at Canyon Lodge and Cabins is a great central location; however, accommodations inside the park can be expensive and require planning ahead.

If you want to stay outside the park, West Yellowstone is the most popular place to stay. The Kelly Inn West Yellowstone is a great place in West Yellowstone.

One of the best places to visit in May in the USA is Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone was the first national park in the United States and a place on many people’s bucket lists. It is an amazing national park to visit with geothermal features, wildlife, and great hikes.

Two of the must-sees in the park are Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Old Faithful is one of the most famous geysers in the world and well worth a visit. While you are in the area, be sure to check out the boardwalks going through the Upper Geyser Basin.

The Grand Prismatic is the largest hot spring in the United States and covers about 1.3 acres. A nice boardwalk will take you up close to the feature. There is also a great hike that will take you to an overlook spot where you can see the amazing colors of the Grand Prismatic from above.

There is a variety of wildlife in Yellowstone National Park. The two best places to see wildlife are Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley, but there is wildlife throughout the entire park. You can expect to see quite a few elk and buffalo. Other animals in the park that aren’t spotted quite as easily are bighorn sheep, bears, and wolves.

You can even book a Yellowstone tour with a local guide! It is an amazing way to get a detailed insight into the area.

Candice from CS Ginger

2. Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is a great place to spend May in the USA.

Location: Los Angeles, California

Getting there: For most visitors, a flight to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the easiest way to get to the city, but Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is nearby and often much less busy than LAX. Make sure you compare the prices for both!

Where to stay: Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis with much to see throughout the city. Most first-time visitors enjoy staying in Hollywood as it is where many popular tourist attractions are located — Hollywood Walk of Fame and Giffith Park, to name a couple.

I also suggest Santa Monica or Venice Beach for the gorgeous scenery, great vegan restaurants, things to do, and it’s still a relatively easy drive to Hollywood (be prepared for traffic).

A visit to Los Angeles in May is ideal for its bright sunny weather! The weather usually isn’t too oppressive, allowing you to enjoy all of the great outdoor activities the city has to offer.

Many of the best things to see in LA are spread throughout the city, so it is best to rent a car. You can get around with mass transit, but it’s not as efficient as some of the other larger cities, and if you’re pressed on time, it might cause you to shorten your itinerary. Keep in mind that there is so much to do and see in LA; don’t try and cram it all into one trip! LA is the kind of city you can visit again and again and keep finding new things to enjoy.

To make the most of the weather, make sure you pencil in at least one hike! For panoramic ocean views, head to Topanga State Park near Santa Monica and tackle the Los Liones Trail. The 5-mile trail winds through a lush canyon, leading to a beautiful overlook. Another bonus, this trail isn’t really on tourist radars, so it’s often quieter.

If you’re a first-time visitor, you might benefit from taking a guided tour of LA. There are plenty of options — whether you want to dive into Downton LA’s architecture or check out celebrity houses, I promise you’ll find just what you’re looking for!

By Rebecca from Veggies Abroad

3. Redwoods National Park, California

Redwood National Park is a popular place to spend May in the USA.

Location: Redwood National Park, California

Getting there: The closest major airports are in Portland (5.5 hours away) and Sacramento (5.5 hours away). There’s also the smaller Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport in Medford, Oregon, which is a two hour drive from the park.

Where to stay: The Lighthouse Inn and the Front Street Inn are great local hotels.

Walking through the groves of towering redwood trees is a really magical experience – and Redwood National Park is the best place to see them. May is a great time to vist the park, because it’s much less busy than the summer, but the weather is warm and sunny most days! May brings the occasional foggy day, but the fog hanging over the tree canopies can make the views even better. It’s a great time for hiking in Redwood National Park, while the weather is just right for outdoor adventures.

You’ll find everything from short nature walks to longer treks – with paths that wind through the forest and even a few that take you to secluded beaches! Be sure to check out the Big Tree Circle Trail and the Stout Memorial Grove for short, easy loops where you’ll see some incredible redwood trees. If you want to hike to views of the ocean, the Damnation Creek Trail is incredibly scenic, but it is steep! For an easier option, check out Enderts Beach.

There are also lots of pull offs while you drive, so stop at DeMartin Beach and Gold Bluff Beach for gorgeous places to enjoy a picnic or watch the sunset over the crashing waves.

You can also book your Redwood guided tour and wine tasting online before you go! It saves time when you reach there.

By Anna from Anna Tee

4. Mammoth Lakes, California

Mammoth Lakes is the perfect place to spend May in the USA!

Location: Mammoth Lakes, California

Getting there: Mammoth Lakes has its own teeny airport (Mammoth Yosemite Airport), but your best bet for major international airports include Los Angeles (4 hours and 40 minutes away), Las Vegas (5 hours away), or San Francisco (5 hours and 10 minutes away).

Where to stay: As your Mammoth Lakes homebase, the Juniper Springs Resort is a fantastic option, with ski-in, ski-out access, fireplaces in the suites, and two heated outdoor pools.

Mammoth Lakes, nestled in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, is spectacular place to spend May in the USA. This small ski town is incredibly charming, with A-frame cabins and wooden chalets lining the streets and panoramic views of snow-capped mountains as far as the eye can see.

The weather is pleasant, with highs in the low 60s and clear skies. And despite this moderate weather, you’ll still be able to enjoy what Mammoth is most famous for- skiing! This makes Mammoth lakes the perfect location to spend May in the USA if you like winter sports!

Due to its elevation, Mammoth Lakes enjoys one of the longest ski seasons in the country, usually spanning from November through May. Check out any of the 200 runs on either the Mammoth Mountain or June Mountain ski resorts, all while taking in the spectacular backdrop of the surrounding Sierras.

While high elevation areas will still be snowed in, there are plenty of hiking and backpacking trails to be explored at lower elevations, like in the nearby Inyo National Forest.

After all that playing in those outdoor adventures, go relax those aching muscles in any of the incredible hot springs in Mammoth Lakes. For example, Wild Willy’s is one of the only geothermal springs in the area with totally natural pools, offering both a thermal river and a heart-shaped pool. Find a good spot in the spring, sit back, and soak in the incredible views around you! May in the USA couldn’t get better than this!

By Jessica From Uprooted Traveler

5. Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu is a great island to spend May in the USA.

Location: Oahu, Hawaii

Getting there: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) located in Honolulu. Direct flights from the US have been added over the last few years from cities like Boston, New York City, Los Angelos, Seattle, and more.

Where to stay: For a luxury stay in Waikiki, try the Royal Hawaiian. For a historic, but still luxurious stay, head to the Moana Surf Rider – the first hotel built in Waikiki!

While many people snowbird to the islands during the cold, mainland winters, Spring happens to be one of the most beautiful times to visit the island of O’ahu in Hawaii.

O’ahu is the most populated island in Hawaii, filled with people of all ages and from all places, making it an awesome destination for just about anyone!

In May, however, daytime temperatures will hang around the mid-80s, so it’s not too hot to spend all day at the beach, and not too cold to cool off in the water. At night, throw on a hoodie and enjoy the island breeze when the weather cools down.

O’ahu is filled with incredible hikes – the Lanikai Pillbox Hike (pictured) is well-known for its panoramic sunrise and sunset views,

and when you’re done you can cool off at Lanikai Beach, frequently listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

If you’re a foodie, you can head to the North Shore for some famous food truck garlic shrimp, acai bowls, and poke bowls! The North Shore is also home to Turtle Beach for snorkeling and surfing with sea turtles, cliff jumping in Waimea Bay, or getting lost in the Dole Plantation maze with a big cup of Dole Soft Serve Ice Cream!

For shopping lovers, Honolulu is home to the Ala Moana Center, the world’s largest open-air shopping mall that holds boutiques, upscale dining, and beautiful views in the center of the O’ahu action!

Whatever you’re looking for and whoever you’re with – family, friends, or even solo travelers, you can’t go wrong with O’ahu for your May in the USA vacation.

By Rachel from Caribbean Uncovered

6. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is another great place to spend May in the USA.

Location: Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Getting There: There are a few airports in close proximity to Cape Cod– namely Boston Logan and Rhode Island T.F. Green. Both are a little over an hour from the island. However, the easiest way to travel to Cape Cod is to drive. The island is relatively large, and you will likely need a car to travel between towns for various leisure activities. You can even take the ferry from Boston.

Where to Stay: There are so many fabulous places to stay throughout the island. The best location is Hyannis–a central town in the Mid-Cape region that makes for easy access to Nantucket and has plenty of things to do downtown. The SeaCoast Inn is a great choice: budget friendly, walkable to downtown in less than 5 minutes, and clean!

Cape Cod is known for its beautiful miles of seashore, stunning harbors, and various islands. It has both beach and ocean options as well as more mild areas like the sound. However, its proximity to many large cities on the East Coast has made it a popular summer destination for many. Visiting in May means that you have much more of the island to yourself!

Cape Cod is a beautiful landscape for day trips. Drive up to the tip of the island for a taste of Provincetown- a world-famous town known for their welcoming LGBTQ+ community. While there, walk along their main street and have lunch at The Lobster Pot, a restaurant that has been serving up its popular lobster since 1979!

Another beautiful place to visit is Martha’s Vineyard. A short ferry ride will drop you off at the top of this prestigious area. Rent a bike in Oak Bluffs and bike your way down to Edgartown where you can enjoy a local seafood dinner on the docks in town.

There is no shortage of things to do on Cape Cod. Head to the beach, enjoy wine tasting, visit fish markets, go whale watching, and peruse tiny coastal towns filled with character. No matter what you enjoy doing, Cape Cod is the place to be in May in the USA!

By Taylor from Traverse With Taylor

7. Twin cities, Minnesota

Twin cities in Minnesota is an intriguing place to spend May in the USA.

Location: The Twin Cities, Minnesota

Getting There: The Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is located in Bloomington, one of the suburbs of the Twin Cities, and is the best way to get there.

Where to Stay: The most unique accommodation in the Twin Cities is the Covington Inn, a floating bed and breakfast on the Mississippi River. Or, book a stay at the Moxy Minneapolis Downtown.

Minnesota winters can be long and harsh, but once the spring months start to hit, the state becomes a magical place to visit.

From melting snow flowing over waterfalls, lakes thawing and preparing for boating, and outdoor patios opening up for dining, May is the perfect time to visit the Twin Cities.

The weather is finally beginning to warm up, and the best activities are underway!

If you’re an adventurer, head to Minnehaha Falls to see the waterfall at its strongest, as the roaring waters pour over rocky cliffs.

Or, explore Theodore Wirth Regional Park and experience a bog and wetland in the middle of the city.

If you prefer the city, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is perfect for a warm spring day, as you can stroll around outside and enjoy the artwork.

Minnesotans are big baseball fans and love to cheer on their Minnesota Twins at Target Field, who typically start their season in April.

The opening of farmers’ markets also happens in May, where you can support local farmers and enjoy fresh produce.

Outdoor patios are the perfect way to enjoy a delicious meal and get the fresh air that was missing all winter long. Union is a year-round rooftop restaurant that is perfect for a lunch outside.

May is a great time to visit the Twin Cities and is just the start of a beautiful summer. The weather makes it one of the best places to spend May in the USA.

By Kassidy from Kassidy’s Journey

8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

If you love the great outdoors, consider spending your May in the USA at Rocky Mountain National Park.

Location: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Getting there: The easiest way to get to Rocky Mountain National Park from out of state is to fly into Denver International Airport. From there, you’ll need to rent a car and drive about an hour and a half to Estes Park, which is the perfect home base for exploring the park. The entrance is a short drive from downtown Estes.

Where to stay: When choosing where to stay in Estes Park, it’s best to find a place near downtown so that you can explore this walkable area. All of the hotels are fairly close to the park entrance, but for some interesting history, stay at the Stanley Hotel.

If you’re looking for a great place to go during May in the USA, you absolutely must head to Rocky Mountain National Park. This is one of the most popular parks in the United States for a reason and features stunning lakes, incredible hikes, and even a beautiful scenic drive above the treeline.

There are many hikes to choose from, but a true hidden gem is a hike to Lake Haiyaha from the Bear Lake trailhead. Along the way, stop at Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, and Dream Lake before making your way up to this beautiful blue lake. You can even hike a little extra to see the iconic Emerald Lake, too.

Spend the afternoon driving Trail Ridge Road (if it’s open) which is incredibly scenic. Even though the road can be scary to drive for those who don’t like heights, the view is incredible. Stop at the visitor center there too, which is the highest visitor center in the United States. Trail Ridge Road usually opens in May or June, depending on the weather each year.

Luckily, timed entry for the park normally doesn’t start until the end of May, so for the majority of the month, you can get in without a reserved pass. However, the Bear Lake trailhead parking lot gets filled incredibly quickly, so it’s best to still start your hike in the early morning before 9 a.m.

You can even book a safari tour online for a more guided experience.

By Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages

9. Denver, Colorado

Denver is a cool place to spend May in the USA.

Location: Denver, Colorado

Getting There: Unless you live close enough to drive, you’ll likely want to fly into Denver International Airport (DEN). The Denver Airport is about a 45-60 minute drive from downtown, depending on traffic. If you aren’t planning to rent a car, you can take a train from the airport directly to Union Station.

Where to Stay: Choose a neighborhood that is central but lively. A few great options are the River North District, Wash Park, Ballpark, and LoDo.

Denver, Colorado is known for its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, breweries, music venues, and sports teams. The easiest way to get a feel for the city is to wander through the 16th Street Mall, which runs loosely from the newly renovated Union Station to the Capitol Building.

Denver has something to offer just about every type of traveler. Digital nomads and remote workers can grab a coffee and stay a while at one of Denver’s best coffee shops. If you like sports or are visiting with kids, you can catch a Rockies’ game at Coors Field. If you’re a foodie, check out some of Denver’s unique restaurants like Linger, a street food-themed restaurant built in a former mortuary, and City O’ City, a vegan restaurant with Old Denver charm.

For nightlife, try your hand at lifesize Jenga at 1Up, an arcade bar downtown, or catch a concert at the infamous Red Rocks Amphitheater. If you’re looking for a totally different experience, go line dancing at the Grizzly Rose, a massive western themed bar north of downtown.

May is the perfect time to visit because the weather is just warming up, but it won’t get too warm during the day. When packing, you’ll want to dress like an onion–lots of layers! Some days should be quite warm, but beware that there can sometimes be snow flurries into late May. Public transit in Denver is lacking, so be prepared to drive or take Ubers when you need to get around.

Pro tip: The Denver city pass can help you save as much as 42 % on the top attractions!

By Amber from Amber Everywhere

10. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Another amazing place to spend May in the USA is Santa Fe in New Mexico.

Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico

Getting There: Santa Fe has a small regional airport with direct flights from a few major cities. However, many visitors opt to fly into Albuquerque, which has a much larger airport only an hour from Santa Fe.

Where To Stay: Hotel Santa Fe is the only Native American owned hotel in the city and offers a great central location for a weekend in Santa Fe. The hotel has pueblo style architecture, a beautiful collection of art and a range of rooms from basic to luxury.

Santa Fe, New Mexico’s capital city, has something for everyone. From eclectic art galleries to beautiful architecture to delicious food, the downtown area is worth exploring.

May is a wonderful time to visit Santa Fe because the weather will be not-too-hot and not-too-cold. It’s also a great time to see flowers in bloom all over town.

While you’re in Santa Fe, don’t miss Meow Wolf. This wild art experience has over 70 rooms of immersive art displays.

You will take a journey through a mysterious manor and have the chance to touch the art along the way. It’s a fun activity for kids and adults alike.

In addition to Meow Wolf, experience the art in Santa Fe on Canyon Road. This short, hillside road has over 100 art galleries that you can explore. At the top of the road, enjoy a cup of tea at The Teahouse.

It is also worth visiting some of the historic and beautiful hiking destinations near the city. Don’t miss Bandelier National Monument.

This park protects historic cliff dwellings, petroglyphs and artifacts that date back 1000’s of years. Hike the Main Pueblo Loop Trail to explore the most famous areas of the park and add on more trails if you have time.

A road trip through New Mexico definitely can hit all the highs of Santa Fe too! It is perfect if you have kids in tow.

From culture to art to hiking, Santa Fe is a wonderful destination and is the perfect place to spend May in the USA.

By Lydia from Lost With Lydia

11. Great falls, Montana

Consider spending your May in the USA in Great Falls.

Location: Great Falls, Montana

Getting There: You can fly directly into Great Falls using Alaska, Allegiant, Delta or United. For my fellow road trip aficionados it can also be easily accessed from I-15.

Where to Stay: For those who are comfortable with Airbnb, there are a ton of cute little homes located walking distance from downtown. If you are looking for a more traditional hotel experience however, I’d recommend the Best Western Plus Riverfront Hotel and Suites. Located on River Dr, this hotel has beautiful views of the Missouri River (the heart of Great Falls) and is walking distance to some of the town’s best restaurants.

Great Falls is an amazing place to spend May because the spring snowmelt floods into the Missouri River, bringing the surrounding waterfalls to their peak glory. One of the most popular places to visit is Ryan Island Park. Here you’ll find a gorgeous view of the Ryan Dam and Great Falls Waterfall, for which the town was named. Another favorite destination is the River’s Edge Trail, which connects major parks and areas of interest along the river.

Aside from a strong connection to the nature surrounding the Missouri River, Great Falls is also a gateway to Glacier National Park, the nation’s 10th most visited national park. There are so many activities to be enjoyed in Great Falls, MT this destination has earned its place on any adventurer’s May itinerary.

By Michele from Slow Traveling Cat

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