Best destinations to visit in May in North America
Best destinations to visit in May in North America
May marks a genuine shift toward summer across North America, though the timing depends a lot on how far north or south you look.
National parks and mountain trails begin opening up as snow melts at higher elevations, though some routes stay closed well into the month. The Caribbean and Mexico stay warm and mostly dry, with hurricane season still weeks away. Memorial Day weekend at the very end of the month unofficially kicks off the busier summer travel season across much of the United States. Northern regions warm up more slowly, with pleasant but still cool weather that suits travelers who prefer to avoid the heat of high summer. Cities across the continent also start hosting more outdoor events as the weather turns reliably warmer.
The destinations on our list for North America reflect that same shift, from early summer warmth to the last of spring's cooler days.
Lists by region
City in United States
Seattle
Where nature and innovation converge
Set between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, this city has views of Mount Rainier on clear days. May is mild, with highs near 18 degrees Celsius and long daylight hours. Pike Place Market has fish stalls, flower sellers and small cafes. Ferries cross Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island in about 35 minutes.
City in United States
Asheville
Blue Ridge arts, brews and views
Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this North Carolina city is mild and green in May. The Blue Ridge Parkway has scenic overlooks and spring wildflowers. The Biltmore Estate has gardens in bloom. Many craft breweries and live music venues are in the downtown area.
City in Canada
Montreal
A city of festivals, food and culture
Compared with most North American cities, this city has a strong French culture and many outdoor terraces in May. May is mild, with highs near 18 degrees Celsius. Old Montreal has cobbled streets and stone buildings from the 1700s. Mount Royal Park has lookouts over the city. Bagels and smoked meat sandwiches are local favourites.
City in Canada
Vancouver
Where mountains, ocean and city life meet
Relaxed and outdoorsy, this city sits between the mountains and the sea. Rhododendrons and tulips bloom in Stanley Park and Queen Elizabeth Park. The Seawall is a long path for walking and cycling around Stanley Park. Mountain peaks near the city still have snow in May.
National Park in United States
Zion National Park
Red rocks, epic hikes and nature's beauty
Most visitors ride the shuttle bus through Zion Canyon because private cars are restricted on the scenic drive. May is warm, with highs near 27 degrees Celsius and mostly dry days. The Narrows riverwalk is often closed in spring when the water is high. Angels Landing needs a permit.
National Park in United States
Grand Canyon National Park
Epic Vistas, Timeless Adventure
Compared with summer, this huge canyon is cooler and less crowded in May. South Rim highs are near 18 degrees Celsius while the canyon floor is much hotter. Mather Point and Yavapai Point are easy viewpoints near the visitor centre. Hikers should carry plenty of water below the rim.
National Park in United States
Yellowstone National Park
Geysers, wildlife and untamed wilderness
Covering about 8,900 square kilometres across Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, this park is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined. Most park roads open in spring, with higher passes opening by late May. Wildlife is active in May, with bison calves, bears and elk in the valleys. Old Faithful erupts about every 90 minutes.
Town in Canada
Banff
Rocky Mountain Majesty, Endless Adventure
Established in 1885 around hot springs found by railway workers, this is Canada's oldest national park. Lake Louise is often still partly frozen in May. Higher trails are often snowy, so lower walks near Banff town are a safer choice. Elk and bears are active in spring, so visitors should keep a safe distance.
National Park in Australia
Blue Mountains National Park
Majestic Views and Untamed Nature
Cool and forested, this mountain region west of Sydney has sandstone cliffs and deep valleys. May is autumn in Australia, with crisp mornings and clear days for walking. The Three Sisters rock formation at Echo Point is a famous viewpoint. Katoomba and Leura have cafes, galleries and gardens with colourful autumn leaves.
National Park in United States
Yosemite National Park
Nature's Grand Cathedral
May is peak waterfall season in this Sierra Nevada park, with Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall at full flow. Tioga Road, which crosses the high country, often opens in late May or June. Valley temperatures are mild near 21 degrees Celsius. Half Dome and El Capitan are major granite landmarks in the valley.
National Park in United States
Bryce Canyon National Park
Hoodoo Wonderland and Starry Nights
Thousands of tall rock spires called hoodoos stand in natural amphitheatres in this Utah park. The rim is at about 2,400 to 2,700 metres, so nights can be near freezing in May. Sunrise Point and Sunset Point are easy viewpoints along the rim. Queens Garden Trail descends among the hoodoos.
Island in United States
Kauai
Lush Landscapes and Secluded Beaches
May is drier and quieter than winter on this Hawaiian island, with highs near 28 degrees Celsius. The Na Pali Coast has green cliffs, hiking trails and boat tours. Waimea Canyon is called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Wailua Falls and Opaekaa Falls are easy roadside stops.
City in United States
Moab
Red rock canyons echo adventure seekers' dreams
Mountain biking and off road driving are part of local life in this red rock desert town. Arches and Canyonlands national parks are both a short drive away. May days are warm near 26 degrees Celsius, but nights can be cool. Rafting trips on the Colorado River are popular in spring.
Town in Canada
Tofino
Wild Pacific, Rainforest, Endless Waves
Indigenous peoples have lived on this coast of Vancouver Island for thousands of years. Long Beach and Chesterman Beach are popular for surfing and long walks. Grey whales pass along the coast from March to May. Rain is common, so waterproof clothing is needed. Whale watching and bear watching boat trips leave from the harbour.
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