A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Baltimore vs. Galveston for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Baltimore or Galveston?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Galveston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a historic, vibrant, and diverse city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Baltimore travel costs.

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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Galveston travel costs.

Baltimore and Galveston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Galveston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Baltimore than Galveston. Baltimore is bigger than Galveston, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Baltimore is better known for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Galveston is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, and small town charm. Baltimore is well known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. Also, Baltimore is famous for the National Aquarium. Galveston is well known for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes.

How is Baltimore different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Baltimore
Galveston

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Baltimore and Galveston.

Many visitors head to Baltimore specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Galveston can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.


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

Baltimore
Galveston

Baltimore is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Baltimore has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. 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 Baltimore or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Galveston

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

Baltimore is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

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 Baltimore or Galveston Better for Beaches?

Baltimore
Galveston

Galveston is very good for the beach. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Galveston to enjoy the beach. 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.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.


Is Baltimore or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

Baltimore
Galveston

Galveston is very good for its old town. However, Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

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.

Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Galveston?

Baltimore
Galveston

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

Baltimore is well-known for its shopping. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

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 Baltimore or Galveston Better for Families?

Baltimore
Galveston

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Galveston.

Baltimore is a very kid-friendly city. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

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 Baltimore or Galveston Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Galveston

Galveston is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Galveston frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Is Baltimore or Galveston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baltimore
Galveston

Baltimore is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

Baltimore is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

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

Baltimore
Galveston

Baltimore is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Galveston is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Baltimore can get you to some places easily. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

Public transit is generally 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 Baltimore or Galveston a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Galveston

Baltimore is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Baltimore is a very walkable city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Galveston or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Galveston?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baltimore 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 Baltimore.


  • How many days in Baltimore or Galveston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baltimore 2-3 
    Galveston 1-3

One day in Baltimore or Galveston?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Baltimore. 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 Baltimore or Galveston?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming 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 Baltimore or Galveston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse city of Baltimore. 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.

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 Baltimore or Galveston?

Baltimore 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.

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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Galveston or Baltimore?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Baltimore Prices
    USA Prices
    Galveston Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Baltimore $184
    Galveston $183

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $184, while the average daily cost in Galveston is $183. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Baltimore and Galveston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Galveston $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Galveston $162
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Galveston

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore or Galveston? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Baltimore


Hotels in Galveston


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Baltimore Hotel Prices and Galveston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Galveston $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Transfer Airport Washington DC- New York: $1,200
  • Transfer Washington DC- New York: $800
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $240
  • Transfer BWI International Airport: $220
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Baltimore, MD: $215
  • Airport transfer to or from Silver Spring, MD & Reagan Airport(DCA): $200
  • Baltimore City to Newark Airport Private Departure Transfer: $193
  • Transfer BWI International Airport Sedan: $190
  • Transfer Dulles IAD International Airport: $190
  • Private Airport Transfer: Baltimore Airport BWI to Washington in Luxury SUV: $189
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Baltimore Airport BWI to Washington in Luxury SUV: $189
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Baltimore Airport BWI to Washington in Luxury Van: $189

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

Also for Galveston, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $169
  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $194
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $194

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Galveston?

Prices for flights to both Galveston and Baltimore change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Baltimore $46
    Galveston $52
Typical Food Prices in Baltimore

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Baltimore:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2) in Fells Point
    $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Baltimore

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Baltimore.

  • Private Hands-On Vegan Cooking Experience in Baltimore: $45
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $59
  • Federal Hill Food Tour: $71
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $73
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $74
  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $74
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Signature Dinner Cruise: $88
  • Cooking or Baking Lesson with a Maryland Local Karen in her Home: $106
  • Discover Fells Point Culinary Food Tour: $109
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $112
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $133

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

For Galveston, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of the Strand Food Tour on Galveston Island: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Galveston $15

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

Here are a few actual costs in Baltimore for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise Tour: $110
  • Baltimore Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $92
  • Baltimore Monuments Walking Tour: $20
  • Baltimore Orioles Baseball Game Ticket at Oriole Park: $47
  • Baltimore Ravens Football Game Ticket at M&T Bank Stadium: $147
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Experience by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Baltimore Signature Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise: $75
  • Baltimore Signature Lunch Cruise: $67
  • Baltimore Walking Foodie Tour in Fells Point: $104
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25

Tours and Activities in Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • Strand Street Ghost Tour App - Location Aware/built in EMF Reader: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Adventure in League City : $10
  • Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Museum Ticket: $15
  • Moody Mansion Entry Ticket and Self-Guided Tour: $17
  • Al's Ghost tour : a small group experience : $18
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $20
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20
  • Galveston's Flower Winery Tour at the Florvino Winery: $20
  • Galveston Sweets and Treats Tour: $23
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • Galveston's Secrets of the Strand Walking Tour : $23

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Galveston $37

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

Also in Baltimore, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Baltimore Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $23
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $28
  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30
  • From Patapsco Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Booze and Brothels Pub Crawl: $26
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Experience Best the Happy Hour Pub Crawl Tour in Galveston: $30
  • Historical Walking Tour and Pub Crawl: $30
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $30
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $30


When comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Galveston, we can see that Baltimore is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Galveston?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore 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 Baltimore 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 Baltimore or Galveston in the Summer?

Both Galveston and Baltimore during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Galveston this time of year.

Baltimore is cooler than Galveston in the summer. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 78°F (25°C) in July, and Galveston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. Baltimore usually gets more rain in July than Galveston. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Galveston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Galveston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Galveston. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Baltimore is much colder than Galveston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Baltimore in October average around 57°F (14°C), and Galveston averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In October, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Galveston. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Galveston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Galveston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Galveston. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Galveston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Baltimore. In January, Baltimore is generally much colder than Galveston. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 32°F (0°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Baltimore usually gets more rain in January than Galveston. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Galveston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Galveston in the Spring?

Both Galveston and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Galveston for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

Baltimore is much colder than Galveston in the spring. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Galveston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In April, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Galveston. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Galveston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Galveston and Baltimore

Baltimore Galveston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)