MAY, 01 2018 Add to Favorites

Where to Vacation in the Month of May

Washington DC Cherry Blossoms

The Month of May

WHERE TO VISIT IN THIS MAGICAL MONTH OF SPRING

Top 5 Destinations to Visit During the Month of May

Looking to get away before the big summer vacation rush?  Not sure where you should go or what you should do?  Look no further, in this guide you will find our top 5 picks for vacation destinations during the month of May.  

The month of May has never been a huge time of travel for Americans.  Most of us are hard at work, slaving away to prepare for the summer when the vacation season is in full swing.  However, one should not shrug aside the idea of a little getaway in May.  The venues tend to be less crowded, the weather turns for the better (in most places, not looking in your direction yet Canada, sorry), and prices tend to be cheaper. For those considering an escape during May, here are a few suggestions for destinations to visit!


Washington D.C.

Washington DC Aerial View

Washington is a phenomenal place to visit any time of the year. However, in May it is so much more enjoyable than most other months. Not only will you benefit from lower prices than peak times of the year, but this is also the month when you will see pleasantly warm temperatures yet it is far less humid and much fresher than any other month.

Famous for its marble monuments and being the capital of this great nation; Washington is overflowing with limitless opportunities to discover its rich heritage and endless opportunities to discover an exciting and vibrant east coast destination. There has been a stark increase in the number of boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and clubs popping up all over the capital, adding to its trendier and more eclectic offering. If you visited D.C. in the past, then you will appreciate just how much it has managed to transform itself into a vibrant and thriving cultural hub and a hive of activity. 

The Tidal Basin, Washington D.C.

If you want to stick to tradition, then visiting some of the national landmarks are a must, especially if you are visiting for the first time or bringing younger family members with you. There is the White House, the Washington Monument, the U.S. Capitol Building, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Alternatively, a leisurely walk around the Tidal Basin will allow you to take in many of the monuments D.C. has to offer.

Farmer's Market, Washington D.C.

There are so many other sides to Washington that many people just don’t get the opportunity to see. So, if you fancy seeing a different view of the capital there are bustling farmers' markets, marquee art galleries, and a generally youthful ambiance. May is a busy month for festivals and events in the capital region; some of the more popular events are listed below.

Events during the month of May

Washington D.C. at Night

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park

In terms of the opportunities to view wildlife, as well finding a huge range of available accommodations at great prices; May is a rather special time of year to visit Yellowstone. With the arrival of spring’s latest blooms and new animals, May is absolutely a time of awakening for this top vacation destination. 

Boasting some of nature’s finest creations, Yellowstone has it all. Beautiful lakes and dramatic peaks; this world-class national park is one of the best travel leisure destinations and one of the best places to visit during the month of May. Hot springs, colorful pools, luscious forests and undulating meadows, Yellowstone boasts so much unspoiled beauty, it will come as no surprise as to why this is such a great place to go, and it can suit so many ages and tastes. From waterfalls to geysers, to mountains and canyons and beyond, this place is a treat for the eyes, ears, body, and mind. Here, Mother Nature presents her finest trails that are frequented by elk, buffalo, and so many other varieties of animals. It is truly an iconic vacation destination.

Mammoth Hot Springs

Yellowstone is known to bring in more than five million tourists every year. However, the month of May is surprisingly quiet when compared to the later summer months. This makes it even more of a good place to visit. Spanning over 2 million acres, visitors to the area can enjoy an array of tempting things to do. The Mammoth Hot Springs or Yellowstone Lake provides the perfect spots to soak up some of that spring sunshine. There are also plenty of other trails and lots of opportunities to watch some wildlife.  

Lewis River

Other trails that are not so commonly known also provide a great place to explore, such as the Hot Springs of the West Thumb Geyser Basin and the Lewis River Channel. Exploring, walking, boating, waterfalls, trails, wildlife; Yellowstone is ideal for those who enjoy the great outdoors and provides so many different places and activities that you cannot possibly do it all in a single trip. There is also the infamous Xanterra Tours, which is a guide-led tour through the park that takes you and your family on a wildlife spotting trip that you will never forget!

Yellowstone Geyser

Events during the month of May


Miami, Florida

Miami Palm Trees

No travel guide for places to vacation in May would be complete without the inclusion of a beach destination. It goes without saying that Miami Beach is a great place to visit at any time of year, but for those looking for the best vacation destinations in May; Miami Beach is well worth a look. 

Providing that perfect blend of energy, culture, laid-back luxury, and seaside escapades, Miami Beach is a diverse and interesting vacation destination. If you want a child-friendly vacation in May, the north beach of Miami offers an affordable vacation option, while providing a huge range of activities and is, of course, a stunning seaside and beach location. Just a mere ten miles away from here and you are at the epicenter of culture with a range of museums, theaters, and galleries at your fingertips.

At South Beach, you will find a much more chic and sophisticated vibe. Although the South Beach area is absolutely child-friendly, it has some fantastic adult oriented activities such as incredible places to go shopping, and during the night time this place really does come alive and offers a range of high-end restaurants and energetic nightclubs.

One of the reasons Miami Beach trumps many other beach destinations and has made it onto our list of the top five places to visit in May is the diversity of this destination vacation. It caters to all ages and tastes, and not only this; it does both really well. If you want laid-back luxury, fine dining, crystal clear beaches, along with art, culture, and more – Miami Beach has that in abundance. 

Lincoln Road Mall, Miami

Among the many things to do you at Miami Beach, you can chill-out and take time out at Haulover Beach (note, this is a clothing optional beach!) or spend your time taking in the stunning surroundings at Lummus Park, and perhaps finish that off with some quality shopping time at the famous Lincoln Road Mall along with a signature cocktail at one of the areas many trendy rooftop bars.

Events during the month of May


Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

While this may not typically be featured high on any other list of top US vacation destinations, this gem of a place is peacefully nestled in amongst some of the most breathtaking national parks and forests in the world. Although it is off the radar of most in travel industry, this is exactly why Jackson Hole is one of the best places to take a vacation during May.

Boasting significant ski resorts and well-renowned performance and art venues, this region is, for now at least, an absolute jewel in the crown. The sheer beauty and openness of this region have brought in a huge range of notable A-listers including Harrison Ford and Dick Cheney. This rugged mountain country offers a huge range of trails and endless opportunities for adventure. On top of this, May is a great month to visit as you can also benefit from a lower cost of accommodations and many of the local restaurants offer great 2-for-1 dining deals as well. This is your chance to enjoy a premium location at a fraction of the overall cost.

Jackson Hole Cable Car

The cable cars here offer a relaxing and enchanting viewpoint over the nearby mountains; even though the majority of the slopes are closed to skiers during May, you can still enjoy the astounding views of the local landscape. May is known as the mud season here at Jackson Hole. The weather isn’t too warm and isn’t too chilly, making the town and area a great place to visit during the springtime. Waterfalls, national parks, paragliding, fly fishing, hot springs, and wildlife in abundance; Jackson Hole is the perfect place to sit back and take in the sights of sounds of nature at its finest. 

The National Elk Refuge

There really is no end of things to do in Jackson Hole; The Teton Raptor Center offers amazing and insightful tours that the whole family can enjoy. Stargazing in Wyoming is also a very special experience and one which will create eternal memories. For the adventurers, there is tubing, biking on the trails, hikes, tours, boat rides, and more. If you love animals, then there is an abundance of wildlife and related tours on offer. At Jackson Hole, you can go horseback riding, visit the National Elk Refuge, see the Antelope Flats, take heritage tours, and lots more.

Old West Days, Jackson Hole

Events during the month of May


Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg, VA

If you are looking for a relaxing vacation in May, then you absolutely need to take a look at Williamsburg for your May vacation destination. This is a place that has a rich heritage while offering a taste of adventure, thrills, fun, and also romance (if that’s your thing!). Yorktown and Jamestown are both absolutely stunning and display some of the most highly regarded colonial figures such as John Smith, George Washington, Patrick Henry, Pocahontas, and more. Then of course there is Busch Gardens, known for its thrilling rides, but that is not all Williamsburg is well-known for. Offering a range of trials and tours along the York River, this place has something special, in that it caters for all ages and tastes with ease, offering each something slightly different, and giving all who come here the opportunity of creating memories that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Depending on the age of your family and the aim of your vacation in this destination; you can do as little or as much as you care for. Accommodation prices are far less in May than the more busy summer months, which makes it a great value vacation to take in the spring.

Busch Gardens Zoo

Busch Gardens is the ultimate action-packed day out offering thrills and spills and excitement beyond your wildest dreams. If you come to Williamsburg for your May vacation, then this is a place you absolutely need to visit. At the other end of the scale is Colonial Williamsburg and Historic Jamestown, both places that are rich in culture and have a huge range of museums and grandeur at their core. There is also the world-famous Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum to visit, should that sort of thing interest you.

Colonial National Historical Park

The Colonial National Historical Park is a phenomenal place to visit and is both educational and entertaining for groups of all ages. You can drive through the park and experience so much from the comfort of your car, which is a perfect way to spend the day when the weather is a little drizzly. For a more relaxing day, why not talk a boat trip down the stunning York River. There are also a huge number of tours and trips that you can take, as well as those offered in the extensive range of parks and nature spots in the area.

Williamsburg offers visitors a range of things to do whatever the weather. Explore the great outdoors or sample some of the rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere in the extensive selection of bars and restaurants. Riverwalk Landing is also a premium shopping venue that is packed with superb shops and eateries. 

Events during the month of May

Kingsmill LPGA Championship

May is a great month to take a vacation. With pleasant weather in most locations, and being a far less-expensive time of year to travel, it is no wonder that so many people are choosing to vacation during May. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, culture and the arts, or a calming beach getaway, these are some of the best places you can take your next May vacation!

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