Ann Arbor in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Ann Arbor
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak spring weather with comfortable 18-24°C (64-75°F) temperatures perfect for walking campus and downtown without winter gear or summer heat stress
- University of Michigan graduation season creates busy campus energy with outdoor ceremonies, family celebrations, and extended restaurant hours through May 3rd weekend
- Minimal rainfall at 5.1 mm (0.2 inches) means outdoor farmers markets, art fairs, and festival season kicks off with Ann Arbor Summer Festival previews starting Memorial Day weekend
- Hotel rates drop 25-30% after graduation rush ends May 5th, while weather remains ideal for outdoor activities through month-end
Considerations
- First two weeks see graduation crowds and premium pricing at accommodations - book by March 1st or wait until after May 8th for better rates
- Variable spring weather means 10 rainy days scattered throughout month require indoor backup plans and waterproof layers
- Peak allergy season with high pollen counts from blooming trees and flowers can affect sensitive travelers from mid-April through May
Best Activities in May
University of Michigan Campus Walking Tours
May offers perfect weather for exploring the 3,200-acre campus with comfortable temperatures and spring blooms. Graduation energy creates special atmosphere first week. Self-guided tours avoid crowds while hitting Law Quad, Diag, and Michigan Union. Campus museums extend hours for families visiting graduates.
Huron River Kayak and Canoe Experiences
Late spring water levels from April rainfall create ideal paddling conditions. Water temperature reaches 15-18°C (59-64°F) by late May. Multiple access points from Gallup Park to Delhi Metropark offer 2-4 hour routes. Wildlife viewing peaks with migrating birds and active beavers.
Ann Arbor Farmers Market Food Tours
Saturday market season begins in earnest with Michigan asparagus, spring onions, and greenhouse tomatoes. Weather perfect for browsing 150+ vendors from 7am-3pm. Locals stock up on maple syrup from winter harvest and plant starts for Memorial Day weekend gardens.
Matthaei Botanical Gardens Nature Photography
Spring blooms peak in May with tulips, daffodils, and flowering trees creating perfect photography conditions. Conservatory maintains tropical plants year-round while outdoor trails showcase Michigan native species awakening. 300 acres of varied landscapes from prairie to woodland.
Downtown Ann Arbor Craft Beer Trail
May marks beginning of patio season at local breweries with comfortable evening temperatures. Over 15 breweries within walking distance of downtown core. Michigan beer culture thrives with seasonal spring ales and lagers perfect for outdoor drinking.
Kerrytown District Antique and Art Shopping
Historic district comes alive in May with outdoor art installations and sidewalk sales. Climate-controlled indoor markets at Kerrytown Shops provide perfect rainy day activity. Local artisans showcase spring collections with extended shop hours for graduation visitors.
May Events & Festivals
University of Michigan Spring Commencement
Multiple ceremonies throughout first weekend create campus-wide celebration with families, special dining hours, and ceremonial campus tours. Individual schools hold outdoor ceremonies when weather permits.
Ann Arbor Spring Art Fair Preview Events
Setup and preview events for summer's major art fair begin Memorial Day weekend with local artist studio tours and gallery openings preparing for July's massive festival.