The Best Places to Visit in the US in May

May is one of those rare travel months when much of the country feels freshly accessible. Beaches warm up without summer congestion, mountain towns open trails as snow recedes, and small cities lean into festival season with outdoor markets, gardens, and early-evening patios. It’s a great moment for trips that mix comfort with mild weather – coastal drives, wine country weekends, lake escapes, and longer walks through places that are still quiet before school holidays begin.

This guide highlights destinations that are especially rewarding in May, with insider tips on seasonal charm, regional quirks, and where Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in the US make an ideal base for exploring.

Savannah, Georgia

By May, Savannah settles into warm-but-manageable days, blooming squares, and long evenings that make the historic district feel especially atmospheric. Oak-shaded streets stay breezy, Forsyth Park fills with locals picnicking after work, and riverfront restaurants open their patios for the season.

The city’s mix of architecture, gardens, and coastal proximity makes May one of the most comfortable months for walking, biking, and day trips to nearby Tybee Island.

For travelers who appreciate history wrapped in natural scenery, Savannah delivers a slower pace without sacrificing great food or culture.

Things to do

• Wander the grid of historic squares in early morning light.

• Visit Bonaventure Cemetery when azaleas linger late into spring.

• Take a boat ride on the Savannah River.

• Head to Tybee Island for soft-sand beaches and lighthouse views.

• Explore the Victorian District’s cafés and boutiques.

Travel tips

• Mornings are cooler for long walks.

• Mosquitoes appear earlier near the marsh – pack repellent.

• Tybee parking fills on weekends; aim for early arrival.

Corolla, North Carolina

Before summer crowds arrive, Corolla feels spacious and bright, with mild ocean breezes and calm conditions for beach walks, kayaking, and exploring the lighthouse.

Temperatures typically range from the low 70s, making them perfect for exploring dune trails, scenic drives along Highway 12, and spotting wild horses roaming the northern beaches.

May is ideal for families or groups looking for classic Outer Banks beach days without peak-season intensity.

Things to do

• Climb Currituck Beach Lighthouse for sweeping coastline views.

• Kayak the serene marshes around Corolla and Whalehead Club.

• Explore the massive dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park.

• Take a guided wild-horse tour along the northern beaches.

• Stroll the historic Corolla Village and waterfront at sunset.

Travel tips

• Morning is best for spotting wild horses before crowds arrive.

• Afternoon winds are great for kiteboarding or sailing.

• Water is still cool; wetsuits make longer swims more comfortable.

• Restaurants and seafood shacks are quieter midweek—perfect for leisurely meals.

Where to stay near Corolla

Wander offers luxury vacation rentals in Corolla, ideal for groups wanting beach access plus quiet, comfortable evenings:

• Wander Corolla Grove – A luxurious coastal retreat that’s just a three-minute walk from the beach, designed for relaxation and entertainment. The home features a private pool (open seasonally with optional heating), a full-size volleyball court, and multiple gathering spaces.

• Wander Corolla Modern – This beach retreat is a short stroll from sandy shores and features a private pool, hot tub, media room with surround sound, pool table, and wet bar.

• Wander Corolla Dunes – With a private pool, hot tub, roof deck, and full sand volleyball court, this rental captures the charm of the Outer Banks. Nestled in the charming Whalehead neighborhood and close to shopping, dining, and the famous wild horses of Carova Beach, it’s the ultimate getaway where comfort meets coastal charm.

Stowe, Vermont

When the last of the snow retreats, Vermont enters a lush, green stretch filled with bright meadows, river crossings, and cool weather perfect for hiking and cycling.

Stowe’s trails around Smugglers’ Notch open gradually through May, and the town’s breweries and farm cafés come alive with spring produce. Waterfalls run strong from meltwater, offering scenic photo stops around Moss Glen Falls and Sterling Gorge.

May is quiet compared to the foliage season, offering peaceful roads and easy access to trailheads.

Things to do

• Bike the Stowe Recreation Path along the river.

• Visit Moss Glen Falls in full flow.

• Explore Main Street’s galleries and general stores.

• Hike Stowe Pinnacle for panoramic views.

• Taste local cheeses and maple products at family farms.

Travel tips

• Trails can stay muddy – waterproof shoes help.

• Midweek arrivals offer the calmest village experience.

• Expect cooler nights; pack warm layers.

Where to stay near Stowe

Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in Stowe offer mountain views and cozy living spaces:

• Wander Stowe Green – This luxury getaway has a spring-fed swimming pond with a dock, expansive mountain views, and an outdoor deck with a dining area and Adirondack chairs.

• Wander Stowe Hollow – A modern retreat with breathtaking views of Mount Mansfield, this vacation rental has luxurious amenities and plenty of space for both relaxation and entertainment.

• Wander Stowe Nest – A modern cabin tucked into 40 private acres of Vermont wilderness, with floor-to-ceiling windows, handcrafted American-made furnishings, and a deep soaking tub.

Napa Valley, California

Napa settles into one of its most pleasant months: warm but not hot, vines leafing out across the valley, and tasting rooms running at a relaxed pace before summer visitation hits. Wildflowers linger in the hills between Yountville, Oakville, and Calistoga, and outdoor tasting decks become the perfect all-afternoon setting. Evenings cool just enough to enjoy long, unhurried dinners.

May also brings lighter traffic along Silverado Trail, making winery-hopping smoother than midsummer.

Things to do

• Book a terrace tasting overlooking the Mayacamas.

• Explore Yountville’s bakeries and boutiques.

• Hike the trails at Skyline Wilderness Park.

• Visit smaller, appointment-only wineries for quieter sessions.

• Catch the St. Helena Farmers’ Market.

Travel tips

• Early tastings give clearer views before the afternoon haze.

• Bring a layer – breezes pick up after 5 p.m.

• Parking in Yountville is easiest before the brunch crowds arrive.

Door County, Wisconsin

Door County in May feels fresh and quiet, with cherry blossoms, clear water views, and state parks that reopen their full trail networks.

The peninsula’s lighthouses, small villages, and rugged Lake Michigan shoreline are especially photogenic this time of year. You’ll find easy parking at parks like Peninsula State Park, open-lake breezes for sailing, and calm evenings perfect for fish-boil dinners.

Things to do

• Visit Cana Island Lighthouse.

• Drive through Peninsula State Park for bluff views.

• Explore galleries in Fish Creek and Ephraim.

• Kayak the caves near Cave Point.

• Enjoy spring blossoms in local orchards.

Travel tips

• Water temperatures stay very cold – use caution when kayaking.

• Villages are quieter midweek.

• Bring layers for rapid temperature changes.

Where to stay near Door County

Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in Wisconsin offer lake access, private outdoor areas, and the relaxed pace ideal for a spring escape:

• Wander Door County – This serene retreat offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan from every room and a secluded back deck, perfect for embracing the magic of lake life.

Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

May brings mild weather and clear views along Skyline Drive, with blooming mountain laurel and accessible trails across Shenandoah National Park.

The valley floor is filled with farmers' market produce, while nearby towns like Staunton and Harrisonburg offer strong dining and arts scenes.

Temperatures remain ideal for long, scenic drives and day hikes, free from summer humidity.

Things to do

• Hike Hawksbill or Stony Man for quick summit views.

• Drive Skyline Drive for overlooks and wildlife sightings.

• Explore Staunton’s arts district.

• Visit local vineyards with Blue Ridge backdrops.

• Stop at small farms for fresh seasonal produce.

Travel tips

• Fog can appear on the ridge – afternoons often clear.

• Skyline Drive is quietest before 9 a.m.

• Cell service is limited in many park sections.

Where to stay near Shenandoah Valley

• Wander Blue Ridge Springs – This sanctuary blends wellness, luxury, and nature, making it the perfect place to disconnect, recharge, and reconnect. Refresh with a year-round cold plunge in the Cool Pool, unwind in the hot tub, or retreat to your private sauna with sweeping mountain views.

• Wander Blue Ridge Mountains – This getaway is perfectly designed to help you unwind, recharge, and reconnect with the beauty of the Blue Ridge. It features a private sauna housed in a separate mini-building with mountain views, helping you connect with nature.

Barnstable, Massachusetts

Barnstable and the surrounding Cape Cod coastline awaken in May with blooming gardens, quieter beaches, and scenic harbor views.

Early-season visitors enjoy peaceful drives along the Cape, local farmers’ markets, and the chance to spot seals or shorebirds before summer crowds arrive. Mild temperatures make it ideal for biking, walking, and seaside exploration.

Things to do

• Explore sandy beaches at Craigville and Sandy Neck.

• Visit the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History.

• Bike the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail.

• Stroll historic Hyannis or Barnstable Village.

• Take a harbor cruise or kayak along the coastline.

Travel tips

• Early mornings are best for quiet beaches and wildlife spotting.

• Some seasonal shops and restaurants open gradually – check hours.

• Bring layers for coastal breezes.

Where to stay near Barnstable

• Wander Cape Cod Village – Take a dip in the heated in-ground pool or soak year-round in the 9-person hydrotherapy hot tub. The mahogany deck, furnished patio, BBQ area, and firepit provide a variety of inviting spaces for outdoor gatherings.

• Wander Cape Cod Garden – An exquisite coastal retreat, where guests can indulge in endless fun within the vibrant game room or immerse themselves in cinematic experiences in the private movie theater.

• Wander Cape Cod Estate – A luxurious retreat with a beautifully landscaped outdoor space, a heated in-ground pool, hot tub, fire pit, and entertainment options, including a ping pong table.

Plan the perfect May getaway with Wander

May is a rewarding month for travelers who want mild weather, open roads, and destinations that feel alive with spring energy but are still quiet before summer

 From coastal towns to mountain valleys and blossom-covered farmland, it’s an easy time to craft trips that flow at your own pace – especially when choosing one of Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in the US, which are designed for calm mornings and slow evenings.