The best destinations to visit in May

Editor’s Note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.

With warmer weather in the Northern Hemisphere, many popular destinations come alive in May. Flowers bloom and the landscape is filled with vibrant colors and lush greenery.

Additionally, the smaller crowds during shoulder season provide a hassle-free travel experience, with shorter routes and less traffic. Additionally, many hotels and airlines offer discounted rates during the month of May, allowing travelers to explore destinations that may be out of reach during peak season.

May allows beach enthusiasts to bask in the sun and sand without the sweltering heat of summer. The beaches are also less crowded, making this an ideal time for outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling and surfing. This month also marks celebrations and festivals around the world, such as the Kentucky Derby, so visitors can soak up new cultures and explore customs and traditions. local.

So where should you travel? Here are the best destinations to visit in May.

Mississippi

Nestled in the heart of the South, Mississippi beckons visitors with its rich history and vibrant cultural offerings. With over a thousand structures on the National Register of Historic Places, this legendary land offers a window into the past.

In May, the air is filled with the melodies of Mudbug Music Festival, An exciting celebration of all things the country promises an unforgettable experience for all who attend. From mouthwatering shrimp dishes to ice-cold beers, every aspect of this beloved event is designed to awaken the senses and fascinate guests.

The city of Natchez is home to many architectural treasures, from pre-Civil War castles to the state’s oldest synagogue at B’Nai Israel Temple.

With Elvis Presley’s birthplace just a short drive away, the city of Tupelo offers a unique blend of art, music and history, highlighted by Gumtree Arts & Wine Festival. This beloved tradition never fails to charm.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a charming getaway, Mississippi is worth exploring.

TPG Tips: Stay at Hotel Tupelo, the city’s first boutique hotel, opening in February 2022. Or, for easy access to Natchez, book a room at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Vidalia Riverfront for $122 or $11,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Louisville, Kentucky

May is one of the best times to visit Louisville, for its 149th annual festival Kentucky horse race falls on May 6. During this year’s Derby Week, Champions’ Day will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Secretariat’s Triple Crown victory. A special modern exhibit at the Kentucky Derby Museum will also mark the anniversary.

There are many more reasons why Louisville is a great place to visit in May. The weather is generally sunny and warm, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s many outdoor attractions, such as Louisville Waterfront Park And Cherokee Park See the famous Wild Lights Lantern Festival at Louisville Zoo. This is the area’s largest lantern festival and runs from Thursday to Sunday until May 21.

May is also a great time to experience the city’s culinary scene, which includes everything from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative farm-to-table restaurants.

Visitors can also tour the city’s bourbon distilleries and sample some of the world’s finest whiskeys. Other popular attractions in Louisville include the Muhammad Ali Center, the Louisville Slugger Factory & Museum, and the Frazier History Museum.

TPG Tips: In the trendy NuLu neighborhood, Genevieve Hotel is set to open on May 1 – just in time for the derby. Or, book a room at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Louisville Downtown for $157 or 47,000 Hilton title points per night.

London

Love the British royal family? Visit London in May.

The King’s coronation will take place on 6 May at Westminster Abbey. It will be the first time in more than a century that the coronation will take place over the weekend. Visitors can witness this historic event and be part of the excitement as the city comes alive with festivals.

May in London also brings a host of cultural events, such as RHS Chelsea Flower Show — one of the most prestigious horticultural programs in the world. In addition, some of the city’s famous galleries and museums stay open late and occasionally host free exhibitions and events in the evenings. The streets are also filled with food festivals, music events and markets that showcase the city’s diverse culture.

London’s parks are in full bloom and visitors can enjoy a picnic or walk in the warm weather. From the grandeur of Buckingham Palace to the iconic London Eye, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy in London in May.

TPG Tips: For royal fans looking to experience this historic moment, Rosewood London is the ideal home. Prices start at $873 or 53,000 Chase the ultimate reward points per night.

Related: The Complete Guide to Flying to London on Points and Miles

Cheyenne, Wyoming

Cheyenne in May is a solid choice for history and training buffs. The city celebrates its unique history as the nation’s railway capital with stock day.

This two-day event takes place in the heart of the historic Cheyenne Depot Museum, the last major railway station on the transcontinental route. Visitors can enjoy train shows and train rides, and listen to presenters throughout the museum. One of the main attractions is the Big Boy 4004, the world’s largest steam locomotive, on display at Holiday Park.

During your visit, explore the historic site Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum, which has exhibits on Western culture and history. The Cowgirls of the West Museum and Wyoming State Museum well worth the stop.

TPG Tips: Book a room at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Cheyenne Southwest/Downtown Area and enjoy the complimentary breakfast. Rates start at $109 or 22,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Beverly Hills, California

May is an exciting time to visit this icon california city, especially for art and culture enthusiasts. The Beverly Hills Art Exhibition will celebrate its 50th anniversary on May 20 and 21 and will feature 325 artists exhibiting their work in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture and photography. In addition to art, visitors can enjoy wine and beer gardens, kid-friendly activities, gourmet food carts, and community exhibits – all for free.

modernism weeka popular event in palm stream, will also appear in Beverly Hills with “MADE in Beverly Hills.” This will feature private tours of modern architecture sites during 21 events at venues like the Beverly Hills Hotel and Greystone Mansion. Guests can also enjoy new dining options and extensive renovations at top hotels.

Beverly Hills is launching a series of urban walkways designed to help visitors explore the city dubbed the “Happiness Roads”. Step in and soak up the spring sunshine as the map guides you through the trails from “Caviar & Bubbly” to “Red Carpet Ready”.

TPG Tips: Consider five-star accommodations like Beverly Wilshire (for about $925 or 71,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night) and L’Ermitage Beverly Hills (for about $727 or 54,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night).

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Phu Quoc Island is located off the coast Vietnamand it’s a wonderland of famous white sand beaches — earning it the nickname “Pearl Island”.

In May, the weather on the island is very hot, so you’ll definitely want to cool off in the turquoise waters. With a vibrant ecosystem of ancient coral reefs teeming with life, Phu Quoc’s warm waters offer plenty of snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Visitors can also soak up the local culture with a night squid fishing adventure using a fishing rod and traditional bamboo bait.

For foodies, Phu Quoc is famous for its fish sauce — a fermented specialty that you can sample at local markets or discover more at a fish sauce factory.

TPG Tips: Regent Phu Quoc, opened in May 2022, is IHG Hotels & Resorts’ first resort in Southeast Asia. Under the Regent Hotels & Resorts brand, this is an oasis of suites and villas. It costs about $384 or 50,000 yen IHG One Rewards points per night.

Wyoming

May is a great time to visit Wyoming, especially if you are an outdoor enthusiast. The weather is mild to warm and crowds are less than in summer. This means it’s easier to go hiking and book camping in the state’s stunning national parks, such as Arches, Zion, and Bryce Canyon.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, hike through the otherworldly gorges of Peek-a-boo Canyon or take an ATV ride at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park at sunset.

The area’s natural beauty is on full display in May, making it prime season for anyone looking for epic adventures and unforgettable experiences in the great outdoors.

TPG Tips: The Hampton Inn Kanab is a great starting point for all your southern Utah adventures. Rates start at $151 or 40,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Related: 20 national parks every visitor needs to visit at least once

Bermuda

Bermuda is an ideal place to visit in May due to the pleasant weather. Average temperatures fall in the mid-70s, with humidity lower than in summer. The island offers plenty of outdoor activities like golf, kayaking, snorkeling and discovering hidden natural gems like caves and cliffs.

May also marks the beginning of Bermuda Performing Arts Festival – a three-week event showcasing local and international artists in dance, music and theatre.

The festival is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Bermuda’s vibrant cultural scene and experience the unique blend of African, British and Caribbean influences that make up Bermuda’s culture so unique. Island.

Plus, with JetBlue’s new daily service from LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Bermuda is more accessible than ever for a quick trip.

TPG Tips: Stay at one of the island’s newest properties, The resort of St. Regis Bermudafrom $685 or 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.