A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. Galveston for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Asheville or Galveston?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Asheville and Galveston. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Asheville

Asheville is a open-minded, eclectic, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Galveston

Galveston is a charming, coastal, and historic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Asheville and Galveston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Galveston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Asheville than Galveston. Asheville is bigger than Galveston, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Asheville is better known for its music, resorts, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Galveston is more popular for its museums, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm. Galveston is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. Asheville is well known for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. Also, Asheville is famous for The Biltmore Estate.

How is Asheville different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Galveston and Asheville. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Asheville or Galveston?

Galveston is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Galveston. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Asheville or Galveston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Asheville and Galveston can be an enjoyable experience.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Asheville. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Galveston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Asheville and Galveston.

Asheville is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Many people head to Galveston for the nightlife scene. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Music?

Asheville is great for its live music scene. However, Galveston is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Asheville draws a good crowd. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Galveston is not a live music destination.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Resorts?

Asheville is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Galveston is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Asheville makes a nice vacation spot. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Galveston is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Beaches?

Galveston is a good destination for the beache. However, Asheville is not a beach destination.

Galveston offers a nice beach destination. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

Galveston is a good destination for its old town. However, Asheville is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

Many people head to Galveston to see the old town. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

The old town area in Asheville is worth visiting. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Hiking?

Asheville is great for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Asheville for the hiking trails. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Galveston?

Asheville is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Asheville is well-known for its shopping. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Christmas?

Asheville is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Galveston does not offer Christmas activities.

Asheville is a very popular destination during Christmas. Head to the Biltmore Estate to see it fully decorated for the Christmas season. It's also worth going to see the winning Gingerbread Houses on display at the Grove Park Inn.

Galveston does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is adequate for visiting Christmas markets. However, Galveston does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville has some Christmas markets worth visiting during the holidays. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Galveston does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Families?

Both Asheville and Galveston are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Asheville is a very kid-friendly mountain town. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Galveston. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Couples?

Asheville and Galveston both high quality destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Asheville frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Galveston is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Students?

Asheville is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston is not popular with students.

Asheville is very popular with students. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Galveston is not popular with students.

Is Asheville or Galveston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Asheville and Galveston.

Public transit is generally limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around town with their own vehicle.

Public transit is mostly limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

Is Asheville or Galveston a more walkable city?

Asheville and Galveston both are notable when exploring on foot.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable place. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to walk around town. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

Galveston is a somewhat walkable mountain town. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

For even more information, also check out Is Asheville Worth Visiting? and Is Galveston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Galveston or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Galveston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Asheville and Galveston. In our opinion, Asheville has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Asheville than Galveston. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 1-3 days is enough time in Galveston.

Couples should spend more time in Asheville than Galveston. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Asheville that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Galveston if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Asheville.

One day in Asheville or Galveston?

You'll find food and shopping around the mountain town of Asheville. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Galveston. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Galveston has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Asheville or Galveston?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Asheville. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this mountain town has to offer. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal destination of Galveston. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Galveston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the open-minded mountain town of Asheville. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming town of Galveston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Asheville or Galveston?

Asheville is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Galveston is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Asheville and Galveston, we can see that Galveston is more expensive. And not only is Asheville much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Asheville would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Asheville and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Galveston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Galveston than you might in Asheville.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Asheville Expensive? and Is Galveston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Galveston?

Asheville has a larger population, and is about 22% larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Galveston, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Asheville or Galveston?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Asheville or Galveston in the Summer?

Both Galveston and Asheville during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Asheville for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Galveston in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Asheville is around the same temperature as Galveston in the summer. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Galveston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in July than Galveston. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Galveston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Galveston. Many visitors come to Asheville in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Asheville is cooler than Galveston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Asheville in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Galveston averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In October, Asheville usually receives more rain than Galveston. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Asheville or Galveston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Galveston. Most visitors come to Asheville for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Galveston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Asheville is generally much colder than Galveston. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 44°F (7°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the winter. Asheville usually gets more rain in January than Galveston. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Galveston in the Spring?

Both Galveston and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Asheville because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Galveston this time of year.

Asheville is cooler than Galveston in the spring. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Galveston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Asheville. In April, Asheville usually receives more rain than Galveston. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Galveston and Asheville