Greensboro in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Greensboro

23°C (73°F) High Temp

11°C (52°F) Low Temp

2.5 mm (0.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect outdoor weather - highs of 23°C (73°F) with low humidity make this ideal for walking tours, outdoor concerts, and patio dining without the sweltering summer heat
Peak spring blooms transform the city into a natural garden - azaleas, dogwoods, and cherry trees are in full flower throughout May, especially spectacular in the Greensboro Arboretum and downtown parks
Pre-summer pricing on accommodations - rates drop 15-25% compared to peak summer months, with excellent availability at downtown hotels and vacation rentals
Festival season kicks into high gear - May hosts multiple outdoor events taking advantage of the perfect weather, from music festivals to food markets, all without the oppressive summer humidity

Considerations

Unpredictable spring weather patterns - you might experience a 15°C (59°F) cool morning followed by a 23°C (73°F) afternoon, requiring layered clothing and flexible daily plans
Higher pollen counts can be challenging for allergy sufferers - tree pollen peaks in early May, making outdoor activities uncomfortable for sensitive visitors
Graduation season crowds at hotels and restaurants - UNC Greensboro and other local colleges hold ceremonies in May, creating weekend booking competition and higher weekend rates

Best Activities in May

Downtown Historic Walking Tours

May's mild temperatures of 11-23°C (52-73°F) create perfect conditions for exploring Greensboro's civil rights history and downtown architecture. Morning tours are especially comfortable with lower humidity levels, and spring blooms add natural beauty to historic sites. The variable weather means you'll encounter fewer tourists than summer months but still enjoy full daylight until 7:30 PM.

Booking Tip: Book walking tours 7-10 days ahead through visitor centers or certified local guides. Group tours typically cost $15-25 per person, while private tours range $75-125 for small groups. Look for tours that include indoor stops as backup for unexpected cool spells.

Greensboro Science Center Adventures

The aquarium, zoo, and outdoor exhibits are at their peak in May when animals are most active in moderate temperatures. The 70% humidity feels comfortable rather than oppressive, and spring means baby animals and increased activity levels. Perfect weather for the rope course and outdoor adventure activities without summer's extreme heat.

Booking Tip: Purchase tickets online 3-5 days ahead for weekend visits during graduation season. General admission runs $16-24 for adults, with combo packages including adventure activities at $35-50. Check for spring season specials and avoid weekend afternoons when local families visit.

Piedmont Triad Brewery Tours

May's pleasant evenings and comfortable walking weather make this ideal for brewery hopping in downtown Greensboro and nearby areas. The spring season brings new seasonal brews, and outdoor beer gardens are finally comfortable after winter closures. Variable weather means indoor/outdoor flexibility at most locations.

Booking Tip: Book guided brewery tours 5-7 days ahead, typically costing $45-75 per person including transportation and tastings. Self-guided options work well with ride-share services. Many breweries offer spring seasonal releases exclusively in May.

Guilford Courthouse National Military Park Exploration

Spring weather makes this 1.6 km (1 mile) battlefield trail comfortable for all fitness levels, with wildflowers and new leaf growth creating photogenic backdrops for this Revolutionary War site. Cool mornings are perfect for the full walking tour, while mild afternoons work well for shorter stops.

Booking Tip: Free park access year-round, but ranger-guided programs typically run on weekends in May. Arrive early morning (8-10 AM) for best weather and parking. Audio tours available for self-paced exploration, costing $5-8 for device rental.

Lake Brandt and Bur-Mil Park Activities

May's moderate temperatures make lake activities enjoyable without summer's heat stress. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are at their seasonal peak with comfortable water temperatures and active fish populations. The variable weather provides excellent photography conditions with dramatic spring skies.

Booking Tip: Kayak and paddleboard rentals typically cost $25-40 per day from local outfitters. Book equipment 3-4 days ahead for weekend visits. Lake access is free, but parking can fill up on warm weekend afternoons - arrive before 10 AM for best spots.

Greensboro Arboretum and Gardens Tours

Peak bloom season makes May the absolute best month for garden enthusiasts. Over 14 specialized gardens showcase spring flowers, with comfortable walking temperatures and extended daylight hours until 7:30 PM. The 70% humidity actually benefits plant viewing without the discomfort of summer levels.

Booking Tip: Free admission, but guided tours through master gardener programs cost $10-15 per person when available. Peak bloom occurs mid-May - check bloom reports online before visiting. Morning visits (8-11 AM) offer best lighting for photography.

May Events & Festivals

Mid May

Spring Garden Tour of Historic Homes

Annual self-guided tour of private historic homes and gardens in Greensboro's established neighborhoods, timed perfectly for peak spring blooms. Features homes dating from 1920s-1950s with original landscaping and seasonal plantings.

Early May

Downtown Greensboro Farmers Market Opening

The seasonal outdoor farmers market returns to downtown with local spring produce, artisan vendors, and live music. Features the first locally grown asparagus, spring greens, and bedding plants for the season.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - pack both t-shirts and light sweaters as temperatures can swing 12°C (22°F) between morning and afternoon

Light rain jacket or packable windbreaker - May's variable weather includes brief spring showers that last 15-20 minutes

Comfortable walking shoes with good support - downtown sidewalks and park trails are extensive, expect 3-5 km (2-3 miles) of walking daily

Allergy medication if sensitive - tree pollen peaks in early May with high counts that can affect outdoor activities

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even with variable cloud cover, and spring sun reflects off light-colored downtown buildings

Light long-sleeve shirts - perfect for cool mornings that warm up, avoiding the need to carry extra layers

Casual dressy clothes for dinners - Greensboro's restaurant scene leans smart casual, and pleasant May evenings are perfect for nicer dining

Portable phone charger - extended daylight hours until 7:30 PM mean longer photo-taking days

Light scarf or wrap - useful for air-conditioned indoor spaces when touring between outdoor activities

Umbrella or hat - spring weather variability means sun protection doubles as light rain protection

Insider Knowledge

Local gardeners call early May 'second spring' when everything blooms simultaneously - book garden tours and arboretum visits for mid-May to catch peak displays that last only 10-14 days

Downtown parking is free on weekends after 6 PM, making evening dining and brewery tours much more affordable - locals skip expensive valet and walk 2-3 blocks

UNC Greensboro students leave town after early May graduation, opening up popular restaurants and attractions that were busy all semester - mid to late May offers better availability

Morning fog is common in May, especially around lakes and parks - the best photographs happen when fog lifts around 9-10 AM, creating dramatic lighting conditions

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only for warm weather - May mornings can be surprisingly cool at 11°C (52°F), catching visitors without appropriate layers

Not checking graduation weekend dates - UNC Greensboro and other local colleges cause hotel rate spikes and restaurant waits during ceremony weekends

Visiting gardens too early in the month - most spring blooms peak in mid-May, so early May visits miss the spectacular displays by 1-2 weeks