Top May Travel Destinations: Festivals, Events & Hidden Gems Worldwide
Renowned 20th-century naturalist Edwin Way Teale once said, "all things seem possible in May." From snake-filled pilgrimages to rose-carpeted valleys and extravagant cocktails, May offers unparalleled experiences. Discover these top destinations and embrace what Teale called "the world's favorite season."
London
London comes alive in May with the Royal Horticultural Society's Chelsea Flower Show (May 21-25), showcasing competitive gardening by top designers vying for gold medals, over 80 flower exhibits competing for Best in Show, and a spectacular 60th-anniversary display by the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies. Stay longer for the Cricket World Cup (from May 30) or spot the Queen at the mid-May State Opening of Parliament procession. History buffs can visit The Mandarin Oriental London, where a young Queen Elizabeth practiced dancing; it's recently refurbished with the Michelin-starred Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. Savor the ribeye with mushroom ketchup and triple-cooked chips before London Wine Week (May 13-19).
Abruzzo, Italy
May's balmy weather is perfect for exploring Abruzzo's mountains and hilltop castles. Highlights include the May 1 Feast of San Domenico in Cocullo, where locals drape the patron saint's statue with non-venomous snakes for a street parade. For a floral twist, join Bucchianico's Feast of Banderisi (May 19) with crowds in period costumes carrying massive paper flower bouquets. Dine on wood-fired pizza at Il Gatto e la Volpe or splurge at Michelin-starred Reale near Abruzzo National Park—try the ravioli with almond and mushroom infusion. End with Rocca di Mezzo's Narcissus Festival on the last Sunday, featuring folk dancing and daffodil-adorned floats.
Louisville, KY
The Kentucky Derby (May 4) draws crowds for the race, elaborate hats, burgoo stew, and 120,000 mint juleps. Elevate with Woodford Reserve's limited-edition $1,000 or $2,500 gold-cup julep (pre-order online for Churchill Downs pickup; proceeds support the John Asher Memorial Scholarship). Explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail via bus or bike tours at 16 Louisville-area distilleries. Depart from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport after visiting the Ali Center, honoring the legendary boxer.
Puebla, Mexico
Puebla, birthplace of Cinco de Mayo (May 5, 1862 Battle of Puebla), hosts massive reenactments, parades with mariachis, dancers, and fireworks in its UNESCO-listed baroque center. Indulge in mole poblano—chilies, fruits, nuts, spices, and chocolate over chicken or beef—at El Mural de los Poblanos (traditional) or Augurio (chocolate-free innovation).
Asheville, NC
Mid-70s temperatures make May ideal for Asheville's outdoor events. The Leaf Festival (May 8-11) features African, Latin, Appalachian, and Cajun music, plus yoga and sound healing. Visit Biltmore Estate for Biltmore Blooms (through May 23) and Vanderbilt House Party exhibit (through May 27). Music fans await the Moogseum opening (May 23) and Moog Factory tour on Bob Moog Day, marking his would-be 85th birthday.
The Dadès Valley, Morocco
Six hours from Marrakesh, Kalaat M’Gouna bursts with rose scents during the Rose Festival (May 10-12), featuring Berber music, dancing, sword displays, and Rose Queen coronation. Adventure seekers can camel trek to Merzouga or canyoneer in Todra Gorge.
The San Francisco Bay Area
May caters to creatives: Oakland Art Month highlights dance, visual arts, and the Queer California Film Series. The Bay Area Book Festival (May 4-5) in Berkeley features Robert Reich, Joyce Carol Oates, and more. CAAMFest (May 9-19) showcases Asian-American films like Blinded by the Light. End with Maker Faire Bay Area (May 17-19) for VR, 3D printing, AI, and 800+ interactive exhibits.
