In the United States, May is a transitional period between the spring season and the summer season. Whether you’re booking a special romantic trip, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, the unique landscapes and cultural happenings around the country offer something for every kind of traveler. From sunny beaches in California to the busy streets of New York City, the U.S. is a perfect place to visit in May.
USA in May Weather
In May, you get warmer weather throughout the United States, making it a good time to travel. The northern part has a mild climate and boasts daytime temperature ranging 65 to 80°F (18 to 27 °C). Temperatures climb south; places in Texas, Florida and southern Arizona frequently reach above 80°F (27°C), and in parts of Phoenix and Tucson, they exceed 90°F (32°C). The west and central parts of the country could be hotter than average, marking the beginning of summer.
Apart from the sunshine in most areas, occasional spring showers may hit the cities, so don’t forget to keep an eye on your local forecasts. Many people travel to coastal areas, like California and the Gulf Coast, for the nice USA in May weather at this time of year.
Places to Visit in May in the USA
Here are some Places to visit in May in the USA:
Napa Valley, California:
Famous for its scenic vineyards and top-notch wineries, Napa Valley is a paradise for wine lovers and for USA in May for couples. Music, food and wine converge in a three-day celebration at the BottleRock Napa Valley festival, which takes place in late May.
Charleston, South Carolina:
Charleston is a lovely destination, with its historic charm, cobblestone streets and Southern hospitality. The city’s food scene is legendary, a celebration of Lowcountry fare.
Grand Canyon, Arizona:
You don’t want to be there in summer peak months, but May is a great time when the weather is warm, but not unbearable. The trails and viewpoints located at the park provide spectacular views of this natural marvel.
San Antonio, Texas:
San Antonio comes alive in May as it hosts the Fiesta San Antonio, a 10-day celebration of parades, music and cultural events.
New Orleans, Louisiana:
The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience, which takes place in May, celebrates the city’s deep culinary roots, with tastings, cooking demonstrations and wine pairings.
Seattle, Washington:
The leafy metropolis with an active arts scene offers both outdoor pursuits and cultural opportunities. SiFF, which runs in May, draws filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world.
Asheville, North Carolina:
This charming town is known for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views. May is a great time to explore the River Arts District, visit the Biltmore Estate, and enjoy the beautiful gardens in bloom.
Things to Do in the USA in May
There are so many opportunities for exploration and adventure in the United States in May. Here are some ideas of things to do:
Attend a Music Festival: May is a big month for music festivals like the Electric Daisy Carnival Las Vegas and Hangout Festival in Alabama. Music Festivals in Washington feature lively lineups in buzzing environments.
Explore National Parks: With good weather, you can take advantage of national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.
Enjoy Beach Destinations: Coastal locations such as the Gulf Shores in Alabama and the Outer Banks in North Carolina provide stunning beaches, water sport activities, and seafood dining.
Experience Cultural Events: Between the Kentucky Derby in Louisville and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, May is packed with cultural festivities that showcase local tradition and artistry.
Discover Urban Attractions: First-timers can search for attractions such as museums, theaters, shopping, and dining, which are generally irresistible for city enthusiasts visiting New York, Chicago and San Francisco.
Events & Festivals in the USA in May
There’s plenty of diversity in U.S. festivals and events in May. Here are some notable ones:
Kentucky Derby Festival (May 3rd, 2025.): The quintessential Southern festival that takes place in early May consists of horse races, parades, and an assortment of other raucous celebrations.
Memphis in May International Festival (May 14-17, 2025): It is a month long celebration of music, food and cultural heritage, including the Beale Street Music Festival and the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest.
BeachLife Festival (May 2–4, 2025): A vibrant celebration of music, art, and Southern California beach culture in Redondo Beach. Features 50+ artists including Lenny Kravitz, Sublime, and Alanis Morissette.
Atlanta Jazz Festival (May 24th-26th, 2025): This free festival, which takes place at the end of May, features some of the top artists in the genre in Piedmont Park.
Portland Rose Festival (Portland, Oregon) (May 23-June 22, 2025): Well known for the carnival, parades, and dragon boat races that fill late May, this city celebrates its floral legacy.
Travel Tips to Visit the USA in May
When planning a trip to the USA in May or early USA in June consider the following tips:
Check Local Weather: May generally has good weather but varies depending on where you are. Check local forecasts for appropriate packing, always.
Book Accommodations Early: May is a peak travel month, as is often the case around festival periods. Book your lodging as early as possible.
Pack Light Layers: Temperatures can change throughout the day, so bring light layers that can be adjusted to changing conditions.
Stay Hydrated: With the temperature set to climb, it is important to drink lots of water, especially if you are doing outdoor activities.
Plan for Crowds: Big events and festivals can draw thousands of people. Plan on arriving early to popular attractions and prepare for some waiting.
Things to Know Before Visiting the USA in May
Before embarking on your journey to the USA in May, here are a few things you should know:
Airfare Can Be Expensive: Although May can be a wonderful time to visit, it is often a high season for travel in the USA. And to avoid missing out on the best deals available, it’s best that you book your flights early.
Travel Insurance is a Good Idea: Travel plans can be derailed by unexpected events such as weather delays or health problems. Travel insurance can help in those situations.
Understand Local Time Zones: The United States stretches across multiple time zones, so if you’re crossing the country, just be sure to account for the time difference.
Prepare for the Outdoor Elements: The month of May, has lovely weather but also sudden rain showers. A portable umbrella or light rain jacket can save the day.
Road Trips are Popular: May is one of the best months for a road trip. Make sure to book a car months ahead of time, especially if you plan to visit popular national parks or remote destinations.
FAQs
What are some cheap places to visit in May in the USA?
The past couple of years, New Orleans and San Antonio have been ranked highly when it comes to Cheap places to travel in May USA with the sunny, and warm climate. Sections of the Midwest have also ranked well, especially when compared to more touristy locales like New York City and California’s coastline.
What are the best things to do in the USA in May for couples?
A few other romantic Things to do in USA in May for couples include wine tasting in Napa Valley, or driving through the American Southwest on a scenic road trip. Couples also appreciate cultural events such as the Kentucky Derby or beach vacations.
What is the packing list for the USA in May?
A Packing list for USA in May should include lightweight clothing for daytime activities, a light jacket for cooler evenings, sunscreen, comfortable shoes for walking, and an umbrella for potential rain showers.
Conclusion
May is a great month for visiting the USA, as various places offer good weather, lively festivals, and excellent travel options. If carefully planned, you will surely have a memorable experience for individuals in the United States during this picturesque season in May.