19 Awesome Places To Visit In May In The USA


With winter gone, longer days, and summer approaching, spring is the perfect time to explore diverse landscapes – warm weather without the crowds. Here are my favorite spots to discover this month…

1. Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis colorful houses

Annapolis Downtown

Annapolis Maryland in May

The quaint, laid-back capital of Maryland completely charmed me when I visited during this month! I took a break here during month and it had come alive with mild but not too intense weather, blooming gardens and the start of the sailing season, so I enjoyed scenic boat tours and watched regattas in the bay all without the summer crowds!

I found that there was also fantastic festivals happening this month! I loved celebrating the May Day flower basket celebration with the beautiful flowers and decorations dotted all over the city and other events taking place this month were the vibrant First Sunday Arts Festivals, the Maryland Craft Beer Festival, and the Naval Academy Commissioning Week.

I flew into Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI), then drove 30 minutes southeast and stayed for a charming 4 days. As well as the events, I explored the historic downtown which was filled with cozy cafes, independent boutiques, lively pubs, and farm-to-table eateries, took a stop at the friendly Anne Arundel County Farmers Market and experienced lively outdoor dining at City Dock! 

My highlights…

  • Dining at the charming waterfront restaurant Pusser’s Caribbean Grille – I really enjoyed the dock views and the Olde English Fish and Chips! 
  • Visiting the first nano brewery in Annapolis, Forward Brewing – I loved the trendy decor and gorging on the soft house made pretzels washed down with the Movin’ Cosmos craft beer!

2. Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island, Rhode Island

I took a spring vacation during this month to this small, scenic island had begun to bloom with spring wildflowers, the weather was mild and breezy, the crowds were still light as it was just before the summer rush, so I found it was perfect for peaceful bike rides along scenic coastal roads, and spotting migratory birds along the island’s nature trails.

I also found great accommodation deals and loved the more intimate, local vibe it had. I also got to attend the interesting Block Island Film Festival (held towards the end of the month) which showcased independent films, shorts, and documentaries. 

I took a one hour ferry ride from Newport, Rhode Island and stayed for a very relaxing mini-break. I stayed at the quirky-chic Block Island Beach House and enjoy biking along the peaceful Greenway trails, exploring the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs, touring the historic Southeast Lighthouse, birdwatching at the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge, and browsing local art at the Spring Street Gallery before relaxing on the long sandy stretches of Crescent Beach.

My highlights…

  • Discovering an array of awesome shops in the only town on the island New Shoreham, including art galleries, clothes stores, and boutiques – I loved the handcrafted jewelry at The Glass Onion boutique and the pottery and fine art at Jessie Edwards Studio.

3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia in spring time

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Spring Band

Philadelphia - best places to visit

I took a trip to this sixth-largest city during May and found that the spring weather was warm and pleasant, all the city’s historic landmarks were open and in full swing, cherry blossoms and tulips brightened up parks and lively outdoor events, food festivals, and sidewalk dining brought the streets to life!

I also found there were fewer crowds, good deals on hotels and a relaxed, local feel which I loved. The Spruce Street Harbor Park and beer gardens were open and the whole city had really awakened after its winter slumber!

There was also plenty of events I could get involved in, including food festivals, blooming tulips, sporting events, and lively park parties such as the lively Roots Picnic at the Mann Center. My favorite festivals were the Philadelphia Beer Week, the vibrant Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival, and the fun South Street Spring Festival, and the South 9th Street Italian Market Festival. 

I flew into Philadelphia International Airport and stayed for a fun three days! I explored blooming gardens at Morris Arboretum, strolled through historic Old City to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, enjoyed outdoor dining at Rittenhouse Square, and discovered the cool shops and trendy eateries in the hip neighborhood of Fishtown.

My highlights…

  • Staying in a suite at the gorgeous 4-stat boutique Lokal Hotel – I loved the boho-chic decor, the intimate vibe and the remote invisible service! 
  • Spending an evening at the Assembly Rooftop Lounge – I was a big fan of the incredible city views, the trendy design and the rotating frozen cocktails!

4. Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City Boardwalk

I think this easy-going beach resort, full of vintage-style charm, is a perfect choice for families and fun-loving travelers! Located on the east coast of Maryland, about 140 miles south of Philadelphia, I was charmed by its wide, golden sandy beaches, its iconic three-mile boardwalk, fun amusement parks, and the famous pier.

I took a trip here during this month and found it was warm but not too hot, there were fewer crowds and there were spring discounts on the accommodation – which ranged from beachfront hotels to private condo rentals. 

It was a little too chilly to swim comfortably, but it warm enough to relax on the beach, go jet skiing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and even try parasailing here.

I stayed at the cool and funky SeaLoft Oceanfront Hotel and took a dolphin-watching cruise, visited the wild ponies on nearby Assateague Island (just a short drive away), and checked out the live music and fun stalls at the annual Springfest, which took place at the beginning of the month.

My highlights…

  • Checking out the Jolly Roger Amusement Park – I loved the Ferris Wheel, carnival games and nostalgic boardwalk vibe! 
  • Discovering the scenic Northside Park which is one of the most picturesque green spaces in the city, I thought the Assawoman Bay views and the biking on the paved trails was an awesome experience.

5. Edisto Island, South Carolina

Edisto Island South Carolina

Edisto Island, South Carolina

Edisto Island, South Carolina

I vacationed in this vibrant Atlantic resort town during this month and found the temperatures were pleasant but not too hot, the humidity was manageable, the beaches and boardwalk were open but far less crowded than in peak summer, and I found hotels had better rates too

I loved that it was was also the start of the loggerhead sea turtle nesting season and there were a few early-season events taking place such as Springfest which had live music, fresh seafood, and arts and crafts by the ocean, Cruisin’ Ocean City (a classic car show) and the large two day Boardwalk Rock Festival.  

I took a two hour 45 minute drive from Philadelphia and strolled the lively boardwalk with fewer crowds, relaxed on the wide sandy Edisto Beach and explored the stunning Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve and Wildlife Management Area, where I spotted playful dolphins and sea turtles nesting on the beach! 

My personal highlights…

  • Kayaking through the extraordinary marshes and tidal creeks and going on a guided eco-tour down the tranquil Edisto River.
  • Camping overnight at the Oceanfront Campground – I loved waking up to the beautiful beach and ocean views!

6. Sacramento, California 

Sacramento Od Town

Hip cafe in Sacramento

I took a weekend break to California’s capital city early during this month and it was a great choice! I found that the weather was warm and sunny but not too hot, there were fewer crowds than the peak summer months, all the local farmers’ markets were full swing and it was perfect for exploring, enjoying outdoor dining at farm-to-fork restaurants, cycling along the American River Parkway. The city was beginning to buzz with life after the colder months!

As well as finding great pre-summer deals on accommodation I also found the flowers were blooming in the gardens and parks, and there were lots of lively events to attend. There was the Sacramento County Fair, FoodieLand Night which was filled with culinary delights, the lively Sacramento Salsa Festival and the free Jazz Music Festival

I drove 6 hours from Los Angeles and stayed at the trendy and unique 4-star Exchange Hotel. As well as the events, I explored the pretty gardens of Capitol Park, strolled the Old Sacramento Waterfront, enjoyed sunset views along the American River Parkway, and took a boat cruise on Sacramento River

My favorite highlights…

  • Dining on a heavenly Bella Rosa Potato Gratin on the charming garden patio at the legendary farm-to-table Mulvaney’s B&L which was housed in a former firehouse.

7. Bend, Oregon

Bend, Oregon - outdoor May breaks

Bend Oregon Spring

Bend Oregon - great places to visit in May

I took a trip to this cool small city during the spring and I found that this month had sunny and mild weather and lower humidity which perfect for longer hikes, the wildflowers were blooming, the bird and wildlife was more active and there was better rates on accommodation as it was just before the peak season.

The hiking and biking trails and riverfront patios had begun to reopen and I could enjoy the city without the summer crowds and there were events on too. I discovered there the free Bend Spring Festival took place this month as well as the fun SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle, the craft beer and music festival Bend Brews & Beyond and there were music events taking place too. 

I drove just over three hours from Portland and stayed for an awesome four days. As well as the events, I hiked the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park, sipped craft beer on a sunny patio along the Bend Ale Trail, and rafted down the Deschutes River (the rivers were fast flowing this month as the snow had just melted)! 

My favorite highlights…

8. Texas Hill Country

Texas Hill Country Photo

Garner State Park Texas Hill Country
Garner State Park Texas Hill Country

Texas Hill Country flowers

I visited this a picturesque region in Central Texas and I found that weather was warm and sunny but without the intense summer heat, the photogenic wildflowers like bluebonnets still blanketed the hills, and I found the temperatures were warm during this spring shoulder season (which lasts from late March through this month) so they were perfect for all the activities on offer which included hiking, cycling, river tubing, exploring wineries, paddling in natural pools, birdwatching, taking scenic drives, and camping.

I loved that were fewer crowds than the summer, good deals on accommodation lush spring landscapes! There were also great deals on accommodation from the treehouses and yurts to boutique hotels and luxury resorts and lot of spring events such as the Kerrville Folk Festival, the vibrant Whimsy & Wonder Art & Music Festival and the lively Cinco de Mayo Celebrations.

 I flew into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and stayed for a beautiful 10 vacation. As well as the events I took a scenic wildflower drive through Willow City Loop, sipped wine in Fredericksburg, swam in the crystal-clear waters of Jacob’s Well, hiked Enchanted Rock which had panoramic views, and enjoyed live music at legendary music town Luckenbach.

  • Visitor’s Centre Address: 160 Ingram Hills Rd, Ingram, TX 78025, Phone: +1 830-367-2151
  • Average temperature – 18-29 °C
  • Location Map and Directions

My favorite highlights…

  • Staying at the quirky glamping site El Cosmico in Marfa.- I loved stayed in a vintage trailer with funky decor and the arty vibe!
  • Staying at Messina Hof one of the oldest wineries in the Texas – I loved staying in the super cute themed onsite cottage, the stunning vineyards and sampling the delicious Cabernet Franc! 

9. Savannah, Georgia Savannah - best places to visit in USA

River Street Savannah

Savannah - best places to visit in the USA in spring

This is a fine and elegant gem of a city! Located in the southeastern part of Georgia, when I visited I was captivated by its Southern charm, is gorgeous townhouses, cobblestone streets, historic antebellum mansions, and its Instagram-worthy oak trees draped in Spanish moss! 

It has a subtropical climate so I personally think March to June and mid-September to mid-November are the best times to visit this picturesque city.

I visited in May, and I found the streets were adorned with flowers, and the azaleas were out in full bloom in the lush parks and gardens. The temperatures were also very pleasant, the humidity was lower and I found the accommodation prices were very reasonable too as it was just before the peak season.

I also attended the awesome festivals which took place this month from the fun Savannah Music Festival to the vibrant Mexican Cinco de Mayo Celebrations.

I also really enjoyed exploring the scenic Forsyth Park, the 18th-century building lined historic district, taking a riverboat cruise along the historic waterfront and exploring the unique shops at River Street.

  • Visitors’ Centre Address: 301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401
  • Average temperature – 24-29°C
  • Location Map and Directions

My personal highlights…

  • Staying at the romantic historic boutique The Gastonian – I was charmed by the Regency-Italianate-style mansion and the sociable wine afternoon wine complete with complimentary hors d’oeuvres!
  • Dining at hearty Southern cuisine at The Old Pink House Restaurant – I was charmed by the colorful colonial mansion it was housed in, the elegant vintage style decor and the sweet potato ravioli with pecan sauce! 
  • Going on a spooky but fun ghost tour with Haunted Savannah Tours. I loved learning about all the local legends and the creepy Sorrel-Weed House!

10. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

I personally think this beautiful National Park is hugely underrated! Located along the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia I found thick forests, flower covered hills, waterfalls and wonderful vistas! I thought it was a peaceful backcountry experience in an accessible location.

I prefer visiting during this month or April, as I found pleasant and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking, bird watching, and star-gazing. It was also more peaceful before the summer crowds arrive!

The gorgeous wildflowers and azaleas were also blooming, the trees were filled with lush green foliage and the waterfalls were at their strongest flow.

I attended the Wildflower Weekend which was held here early in the month and I also went camping, birdwatching, took scenic drives along Skyline Drive, wildlife spotting, waterfall viewing, attending ranger-led programs and hiking – my favorite trails were the challenging Old Rag Mountain, the scenic Whiteoak Canyon, and the picturesque Dark Hollow Falls.

  • Visitor’s Centre Address: 17065 Skyline Drive, Front Royal, VA 22630
  • Average temperature – 16°C to 24°C
  • Location Map and Directions

My favorite highlights…

  • Hiking the popular 1.4mile round trip, the Dark Hallow Falls Trail and seeing the gorgeous waterfall at the end of it! 
  • Driving the scenic Skyline Drive which was filled with scenic overlooks and Insta-worthy viewpoints of the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains.

11. Monterey, California Monterey - a springtime break

Monterey Cannery Row California

Monterey in spring

I’m a big fan of this charming coastal gem! Located on the central part of the Californian coast, I found it was a quirky spot with a beautiful coastline, interesting architecture, a historic waterfront street and gorgeous marine life to spot and admire!

I headed there during this month as it was just before the summer crowds arrived and the accommodation prices rise for the peak seasons. I found the weather was warm and there was less fog and clearer days than the summer too.

I loved spotting wildflowers along the coastal trails and catching a glimpse of a whale. This month, humpback and blue whales migrate through Monterey Bay, making it the perfect time for whale watching!

On my trip, I stayed at the exceptionally-styled Portola Hotel & Spa and visited the former warehouses turned cool restaurants in Cannery Row, explored its captivating bay, enjoyed the toe-tapping California Roots Music and Arts Festival (which takes place here every year in this month) and took a stroll down the touristy but characterful Old Fisherman’s Wharf!

  • Visitor’s Center Address: 419 Webster St Suite 100, Monterey, CA 93940
  • Average temperatures – 10°C to 18°C
  • Location Map and Directions

My highlights…

  • Hiking the scenic 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, where I saw breathtaking ocean views and gorgeous spring flowers.
  • Checking out the The Monterey Museum of Art, I especially enjoyed the artist’s workshops they host.
  • Dining at the Cannery Row Lalla Oceanside Grill – I loved the chic but laid back decor, the stunning beach views and can recommend the divine Custard Bread Pudding! 

12. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park on GlobalGrasshopper.com

Yosemite National Park

In my opinion, this is one of the most jaw-dropping places on earth! Located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains (around about 170 miles east of San Francisco) I was truly captivated by its towering granite cliffs, its Instagram-worthy vistas, beautiful waterfalls, and giant sequoias. I was awe – yes, it really is that special!

I took a mini-break here during the spring as it was just before the peak-time crowds arrived, the wildlife was more active (we just had to keep an eye out for the bears!), the pretty wildflowers were out in bloom, the waterfalls were at their strongest flow, the accommodation rates were slightly cheaper and the temperatures were warm but not too hot, so perfect for hiking and the outdoor activities on offer including rock climbing, biking, camping and rafting!

When here, I loved capturing the jaw-dropping sights of El Capitan and Half Dome (pictured above), Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls, Glacier Point, and Valley View.

  • Visitor’s Center Address: 9035 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
  • Average temperatures – 16°C to 24°C
  • Location Map and Directions

My favorite highlights…

  • Driving the breathtaking scenic Tioga Pass (State Route 120, which opens up in spring) which took me across the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains and into Yosemite’s incredible high country.
  • Stopping at Tunnel View on State Highway 41 and seeing Instgram-worthy views of the El Capitan, Bridalviel Falls, and Half Dome (it’s one of the most iconic viewpoints in the park).
  • Hiring a bike from Yosemite Valley Lodge and cycling along the mostly flat traffic-free Yosemite Valley Loop Trail  I loved the seeing the famous El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the lovely Merced River along the way! 

13. Austin, Texas Austin Texas USA

Barton Creek Bridge Austin

Austin Texas Summer

The funky capital of Texas is always a lot of fun! Located in the central part of the state and often known as the “Music City” for its incredible music scene, I found shiny high-rises, historic landmarks, awesome restaurants, cool bars and a collection of vibrant neighborhoods.

I found when I visited in May, the temperatures were just right (as I found it was too hot for me during the summer) and there was a huge array of great festivals to attend with my favourites being the food and music event the Hot Luck Festival, the artisan lead Pecan Street Festival and the toe-tapping iHeartCountry Festival

I loved exploring the awesome restaurants, trendy shops and live music venues in downtown Austin, taking a dip in Barton Springs, biking around Lady Bird Lake, checking out the creative and tasty food trucks, hanging out in the hipster-friendly South Congress district and gazing at East Austin’s Street Art!

  • Visitor’s Center Address: 111 Congress Ave. Suite 700, Austin, TX 78701
  • Average temperatures – 18°C to 29°C
  • Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

  • Staying at the trendy LINE Hotel – I really liked the industrial-chic decor, awesome rooftop pool and gorgeous views of Lady Bird Lake.
  • Checking out the family-friendly food cart pod near near Zilker Park, known as the “The Picnic.” I loved the Hot & Crunchy Avocado Cone from Mighty Cone and the divine Double Dose chocolate cake from Hey Cupcake! 
  • Learning how to do two-step dancing at the legendary Broken Spoke – the most famous honky-tonk in the city! 
  • Shopping for unique gifts at Blue Genie Art Bazaar and South Congress Avenue and browsing the boutiques in 2nd Street District – I was won over by the edgy Austin Rocks and the chic dresses at Hemline.

14. Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire - best places to visit in May

I was really impressed with this tranquil New England gem! Known as “The Oldest Summer Resort in America,” it’s a historic resort town located on the eastern shore of beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire.

I was won over by its quaint, slow-paced vibe, charming historic buildings, stunning lake views, lush forests, and the scenic backdrop of the Belknap Mountain Range!

When I’ve visited during this month I found the spring temperatures to be just right and I loved that it has a more peaceful local community feel before the summer crowds arrive.

I was also charmed by the spring blooms and the local farmer’s markets which start opening up in the spring – the Wolfeboro Area Farmers’ Market was my favorite!

I also really enjoyed exploring the downtown with its quaint cafes and antique stores, the small sandy Allen Albee Beach, the moving Wright Museum of WWII, the scenic multi-use rail-trail family-friendly Cotton Valley Rail Trail, and the interesting New Hampshire Boat Museum. The accommodation here ranged from historic inns and lakeside resorts to cozy bed-and-breakfasts and cottage rentals.

My highlights…

  • Dining at the waterfront Garwoods Restaurant, I loved the lake views, the casual vibe and the butternut squash ravioli! 
  • Swimming and kayaking on beautiful Lake Wentworth, it was also a popular spot for paddle boarding.
  • Going for a picnic at a peaceful spot near the gazebo at Cate Park – the views of the lake were just stunning!

15. Port Aransas, Texas

Port Aransas, Texas

Port Aransas boats, Texas

Port Aransas, Texas - warm beach break in May

This under-the-radar gem really wowed me! The gorgeous laid-back beach town is located on Mustang Island, which is part of the Gulf Coast. I took an uncrowded spring beach getaway here and found sandy beaches, stunning ocean views, extraordinary sunsets and dolphin-watching! 

The summer heat and humidity can be intense but during this month, I found the temperatures to be very warm and pleasant perfect (and warm enough to swim) and it was before the summer holiday vacationers arrive – so the vibe was much more chilled! Accommodation – which ranged from beachfront resorts, and budget-friendly motels to cozy vacation rentals and RV rentals – was also easier to find.

Away from the beach, I also really enjoyed visiting the scenic Roberts Point Park, which had an observation tower with beautiful bay views (where I spotted dolphins!), discovered the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center which had a fantastic boardwalk crossing alligator-inhabited wetlands and taking a boat to secluded San José Island.

My personal highlights…

  • Going on a dolphin-watching tour with The Scarlet Lady and seeing the Lydia Ann Lighthouse and flocks of seabirds as well as the playful dolphins! 
  • Photographing Instagram-worthy sunsets at Port Aransas Beach, the Horace Caldwell Pier and Mustang Island State Park!
  • Checking out the local museum, Port Aransas Museum – I really enjoyed the interesting living exhibit the Farley Boat Works and how its housed in a unique kit house dating from the 20th century.
  • Watching the surfers, windsurfers, and kite-boarders do their stuff while relaxing on Port Aransas Beach.

16. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta CIty USA

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Atlanta City in the Summer

This fun city isn’t named “Hotlanta” for nothing! Located in northern part of Georgia, in the southeastern region of the country, I was hooked on the awesome attractions, gorgeous parks, diverse foodie scene, eclectic shopping districts, its thriving cultural and music scene and friendly Southern hospitality – I thought it was a hugely charismatic city destination!

It’s an awesome year-round travel destination with a moderate subtropical climate but this means summers can be very hot and humid, so I always time my trips for the spring or from September to November, when there temperatures are just right and it’s not so humid.

During this month I found fewer crowds than the peak of summer and better deals on accommodation which ranged from trendy boutiques and luxury resorts to private rentals and cozy bed and breakfasts.

The city’s green spaces also came alive with musical concerts, blooming flowers in the parks and the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and buzzy outdoor dining. The pleasant weather, moderate prices, and memorable events made it an awesome time to visit!

On my spring weekend break, I sipped on cocktails in rooftop bars, attended the incredible free Atlanta Jazz Festival, explored the fine restaurants and shops in downtown, took a ride on the towering ferris wheel SkyView Atlanta, explored hipster-friendly Midtown and took a picnic to Centennial Olympic Park.

My favorite highlights…

  • Staying at the trendy boutique Hotel Clermont – I loved the colorful and creative decor, the cool retro vibe and the rooftop bar which had great city views!
  • Having a fun and unique dining experience in Flight Club while sipping on great cocktails and playing darts! I can recommend the Truffle Fries and the Iguana signature cocktail! 
  • Capturing Insta-worthy shots of the vibrant street art across the city – I especially liked the iconic Krog Street Tunnel and the colorful murals in the industrial turned creative area of West Midtown.

17. Sanibel Island, Florida

Blind Pass Beach on Sanibel Island, Florida

Sanibel Island, Florida

I love how this beach resort island makes an effort to preserve its nature! Accessible via a three-mile bridge from the mainland, I came here on a very relaxing, low key vacation.

It’s located in southwest Florida along the Gulf of Mexico and I found seriously dreamy scenery here – unspoilt white-sand beaches, sparkling turquoise waters and lush mangroves framed by swaying palm trees.

I visited during this month as it was just after the peak tourist season (December to April), so I found it to be much more peaceful than the peak months and the temperatures and humidity were just right for enjoying the beach and the large range of activities on offer including swimming, snorkeling, jet skiing, paddle-boarding, boating, windsurfing, biking, hiking, wildlife-watching (I managed to see dolphins!) and hunting for pretty shells!  

On my trip, I visited Lighthouse Beach, which had a fishing pier and the 19th century Sanibel Lighthouse, the narrow Causeway Beaches for water sports, the striking 19th-century Sanibel Lighthouse, and the scenic J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge which actually covers a lot of the island. Accommodation here ranged from luxury resorts and charming historic inns to private vacation rentals and a campground. 

Visitors’ Centre Address: 1159 Causeway Blvd, Sanibel, FL 33957

My favorite highlights…

  • Staying at the Sanibel Island Beach Resort, I loved the tropical decor, the family-friendly vibe and the quick beach access! 
  • Going on a guided boat tour with Sanibel Dolphin and Wildlife Cruises and spotting gorgeous dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles! 
  • Hiking the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) Trails which took me around the interesting island interior filled with mangrove swamps, wetlands and tropical vegetation. 

18. Monument Valley, Arizona

Monument Valley Utah

Monument Valley, Arizona

This jaw-dropping place always wows me! Located in the Navajo Nation Reservation, on the border of Arizona and Utah, it’s an extraordinary natural wonderland of red sand desert, adorned with towering red sandstone buttes, gigantic flat-topped hills, and huge spire-like formations.

The summer months can get hot and crowded so I much prefer visiting from March to late May instead. I found the soft spring lighting was particularly great for photography and the temperatures were much more comfortable for exploring and longer hikes.

When here, I drove the 17 mile scenic drive Valley Drive which took me past the Iconic Mittens, dramatic Three Sisters, and scenic John Ford’s Point, went on a guided Navajo Tour around Mystery Valley and Ear of the Wind, hiked the valley trails and stayed at the nearby The View Hotel – the valley views from the balcony were simply breathtaking!

  • Visitors Center Address:U.S. 163 Scenic, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
  • Average temperatures – 16°C to 27°C
  • Location Map and Directions

My highlights…

  • Hiking the most scenic location in the valley, the popular Wildcat Trail which took me on a 3.2-mile loop around the desert floor. It was an awesome experience getting close up to the huge formations! 
  • Taking in an Instagram-worthy sunset vista from the John Ford’s Point which is one most iconic views in the valley.
  • Starting the visit with a trip to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Visitor Center and learning all about the park. I also loved standing on the terrace and gazing at the incredible panoramic views of the monument.

19. Las Vegas

Las Vegas

Venitian Hotel Las Vegas

I never get bored of this awesome city! To me, Las Vegas is the ultimate playground of adventures, incredible hotel resorts that have to be seen to be believed, 24-hour casinos, spectacular grand buffets and endless entertainment. 

The summers have extreme heat so I prefer to visit from March to this month and from September to November as I find the temperatures are much more comfortable.

I also found when I visited in May that the pool parties were in full swing, there were incredible spring events such as the Electric Daisy Carnival and Cinco de Mayo celebrations and there were fewer crowds and better rates on accommodation than the summer holiday months.

I personally couldn’t get enough of exploring all the incredible hotels (I loved the famous Venetian and the Bellagio), checking out the celebrity chef restaurants (especially Gordon Ramsay and Wolfgang Puck), going shopping at the Fashion Show Mall, checking out the pool party at Encore Beach Club and catching the shows – the stunning Cirque du Soleil was my favorite! 

My highlights…

  • Staying in the MGM grand West Wing room – I loved the sleek dark decor, dim lighting and a TV embedded in the bathroom mirror! 
  • Trying out the incredible delis and the fun rollercoaster at New York-New York Hotel & Casino. I thought the potato salad at the classic Greenberg’s Deli was divine!  
  • Having an incredible champagne breakfast in Grand Canyon on a helicopter with Maverick Helicopters.



Related Stories

spot_img

Discover

GCSTIMES eco-amenity kit – embedding sustainability into guest experience

The definition of luxury has evolved. For today’s discerning travellers, particularly Millennials and...

18 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Tunisia

In my opinion it’s the perfect destination for travelers who enjoy history and...

How to Cash In to Maya Wallet Using a...

By JDC Monday, August 4, 2025Did you know you can now cash in to...

Taiwan’s Most Beautiful and Enchanting Small Towns – 8...

Taiwan is often celebrated for its vibrant cities and stunning natural landscapes, but...

Popular Categories

Comments

Dejar respuesta

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here