Things to Do in United States in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in United States
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Shoulder season pricing across most regions - hotel rates typically run 20-30% below summer peak, and you'll find better availability at popular properties without the Memorial Day weekend surge that hits late in the month
- National parks hit their stride in May with wildflower blooms peaking in the Rockies and Sierra Nevada, trails mostly snow-free at mid-elevations, and comfortable hiking temperatures before the summer heat settles in
- Longer daylight hours mean more usable time each day - you're looking at 13-14 hours of daylight in northern states, giving you extra time for activities without the compressed schedules of winter travel
- Graduation season brings excellent flight deals during the first three weeks of May as business travel dips and airlines drop prices to fill seats, though this reverses sharply around Memorial Day weekend
Considerations
- Weather variability is significant in May - you might experience everything from snow in mountain regions to 32°C (90°F) heat in the Southwest within the same week, making packing genuinely challenging
- Memorial Day weekend (May 24-26, 2026) creates a sharp pricing spike and crowds at beaches, national parks, and major cities, with hotel rates sometimes doubling compared to mid-May
- Tornado season peaks across the Great Plains and Midwest during May, with an average of 275 tornadoes nationally - while risk to travelers is statistically low, severe weather can disrupt plans and require flexibility
Best Activities in May
Yellowstone and Grand Teton Wildlife Viewing
May is actually the best month for wildlife in Yellowstone - bear cubs are out with mothers, bison calves are being born, and animals concentrate in accessible valleys since higher elevations still have snow. The park opens most roads by mid-May, but you'll avoid the July-August crowds. Temperatures range 4-18°C (40-65°F), perfect for hiking without overheating. The combination of newborn animals, active predators, and manageable visitor numbers makes this the insider's choice month.
Pacific Northwest Coastal Exploration
The Oregon and Washington coasts in May offer what locals consider the sweet spot - storm season has passed, but the summer fog hasn't arrived yet. You'll get clearer views, calmer seas for tide pooling, and comfortable temperatures around 13-18°C (55-65°F). Gray whale migration is still visible through mid-May as stragglers head north. The 70% humidity feels refreshing here rather than oppressive, and rainfall drops significantly compared to winter months, though you'll still want rain gear for occasional showers.
New York City Cultural Immersion
May brings the most pleasant weather NYC sees all year - temperatures typically 16-24°C (60-75°F), lower humidity than summer, and the city shakes off its winter hibernation. Museum Mile Festival happens in early June, but May sees excellent gallery openings and outdoor performances begin in parks. The UV index of 8 is strong but manageable, and you can comfortably walk 8-10 km (5-6 miles) daily without the exhausting summer heat. Spring restaurant weeks and pre-summer theater discounts make this a value play.
Great Smoky Mountains Hiking and Wildflowers
The Smokies in May offer the best hiking conditions of the year - wildflower season peaks with over 1,500 species blooming, waterfalls run full from spring rains, and temperatures at lower elevations sit comfortably at 18-26°C (65-79°F). Higher elevation trails like Alum Cave may still have occasional snow patches early in the month, adding variety. The park is free to enter (no entrance fee), and while popular trails see visitors, you're nowhere near summer crowds. That 70% humidity is noticeable but not oppressive in the mountains.
Southwest Desert Photography and Exploration
May is the last comfortable month in places like Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico before brutal summer heat arrives. Temperatures in Sedona, Moab, and Santa Fe range 21-29°C (70-85°F) - warm but manageable for slot canyon hikes and desert trails. The low humidity (often 20-30% in desert regions, not the 70% in humid zones) means you'll actually feel cooler than the temperature suggests. Wildflowers bloom in high desert areas, and the intense UV index of 8-9 creates dramatic photography lighting, especially during golden hour.
Charleston and Savannah Historic Walking Tours
The Southeast coastal cities hit a sweet spot in May - warm enough for comfortable evening strolls at 21-24°C (70-75°F), but before the oppressive summer humidity and heat that makes July unbearable. Azaleas are finishing but gardens remain lush, and you can walk historic districts for hours without wilting. That 70% humidity is present but tolerable, especially in shade. Historic home tours, ghost walks, and food tours all benefit from pleasant weather. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible but brief, typically clearing within 30-45 minutes.
May Events & Festivals
Indianapolis 500
The biggest single-day sporting event in the world happens on May 25, 2026 (Sunday of Memorial Day weekend). Even if you're not attending the race itself, Indianapolis transforms into a massive celebration with concerts, parades, and the 500 Festival. Tickets to the actual race range from 50 USD for general admission to thousands for premium seats. The atmosphere in the city during race week is genuinely unique in American sports culture.
Spoleto Festival USA
Charleston's internationally recognized performing arts festival typically begins in late May and runs into June. The 2026 dates will likely start around May 22-24. You'll find opera, theater, dance, and classical music performances across historic venues throughout the city. While full festival passes sell out to subscribers, individual performance tickets become available to the public and offer excellent quality at 25-150 USD per show.
Memorial Day Weekend Observances
May 24-26, 2026 marks Memorial Day weekend nationwide. Washington DC hosts particularly moving ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery and the National Mall. Many cities hold parades, military tributes, and commemorative events. This is also when beaches officially open for summer season, national parks see their first major crowd surge, and travel prices spike significantly. If you're visiting for the cultural significance, DC is the place to be. If you're trying to avoid crowds, skip this weekend entirely.