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

Should you visit Charlotte 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 Charlotte and Galveston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a growing, evolving, and up-and-coming 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.

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Charlotte and Galveston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Galveston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Galveston than Charlotte. While Charlotte is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Galveston is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Charlotte is known for its big city activities. Galveston is more touristy than Charlotte and is known for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also home to Pleasure Pier. Charlotte is popular for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Charlotte different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Charlotte
Galveston

Galveston is great for its historical sights. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Galveston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Charlotte is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.


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

Charlotte
Galveston

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Charlotte and Galveston.

Charlotte is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Galveston offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Charlotte or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Galveston

Galveston is great for its evening party scene. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Is Charlotte or Galveston Better for Beaches?

Charlotte
Galveston

Galveston is very good for the beach. However, Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.


Is Charlotte or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

Charlotte
Galveston

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

Galveston has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Charlotte does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Galveston?

Charlotte
Galveston

If you're looking to go shopping, Charlotte and Galveston both offer plenty of good spots.

Charlotte has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Galveston is a great destination for 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 Charlotte or Galveston Better for Families?

Charlotte
Galveston

Galveston is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.


Is Charlotte or Galveston Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Galveston

Galveston is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Galveston is a great 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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Charlotte or Galveston Better for Students?

Charlotte
Galveston

Charlotte is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Charlotte. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Galveston is not popular with students.

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

Charlotte
Galveston

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

While Charlotte offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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 Charlotte or Galveston a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Galveston

Charlotte and Galveston are good when it comes to walkability.

Charlotte is a somewhat walkable city. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Galveston or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Galveston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Charlotte and Galveston. In our opinion, Galveston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Galveston than Charlotte. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Galveston than Charlotte. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Galveston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Galveston than Charlotte. 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 Galveston than Charlotte 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 Galveston.


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

One day in Charlotte or Galveston?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Charlotte. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charlotte has to offer. 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 Charlotte or Galveston?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the evolving destination of Charlotte. 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 Charlotte or Galveston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the evolving city of Charlotte. 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 Charlotte or Galveston?

Charlotte 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Galveston or Charlotte?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $191, 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 Charlotte and Galveston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Galveston $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Galveston $162
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Galveston

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte 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 Charlotte


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: Charlotte Hotel Prices and Galveston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Galveston $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $132
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $132
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Arrival Private Transfer: $67
  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $192
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $192
  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $167
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $167

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlotte or Galveston?

Prices for flights to both Galveston and Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $46
    Galveston $52
Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Charlotte:


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

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.
    Charlotte $43
    Galveston $15

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • 2.5 Hour Black History Van Tour-Perseverance, Power, and Progress: $59
  • 90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte: $75
  • Big Bite Brew Tour in Charlotte's LoSo District: $150
  • Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour : $27
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • Charlotte Historic : Queen Bee City Tour: $39
  • Charlotte Historical City Tour: $45
  • Charlotte Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $90
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Charlotte's Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour: $48

Tours and Activities in Galveston

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

  • 2 Hours Private Cemeteries of Galveston Walking Tour: $179
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $15
  • Authentic Galveston Ghost City Tour: $25
  • Baywatch Dolphin Tour : $25
  • Baywatch Galveston Island Bus Tours: $25
  • Dark Side and Cemeteries of Galveston – Walking Tour: $351
  • Demo and Reno Galveston Reconstructed Private Tour: $85
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Guide: $34
  • Galveston Cemetery Private Tour: $85
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour with Red Light District: $25
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Tour: $25
  • Galveston Ghosts of the Gulf Haunted Tour: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlotte $20
    Galveston $37

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Charlotte:

  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Original Charlotte Brewery Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $125
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

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

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30


When comparing the travel costs between Charlotte and Galveston, we can see that Charlotte 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 Charlotte Expensive? and Is Galveston Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Charlotte or Galveston?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Charlotte or Galveston in the Summer?

Both Galveston and Charlotte are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Charlotte 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.

In July, Charlotte is generally around the same temperature as Galveston. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 81°F (27°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Charlotte. In July, Charlotte usually receives more rain than Galveston. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C) 
    Galveston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Galveston in the Autumn?

Both Galveston and Charlotte during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Charlotte is cooler than Galveston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Galveston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Charlotte usually gets more rain in October than Galveston. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Galveston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Galveston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlotte and Galveston. Many travelers come to Charlotte 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.

In the winter, Charlotte is much colder than Galveston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Charlotte in January average around 42°F (6°C), and Galveston averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In January, Charlotte usually receives more rain than Galveston. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C) 
    Galveston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Galveston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Charlotte as well as Galveston. Many visitors come to Charlotte 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.

In April, Charlotte is generally cooler than Galveston. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 63°F (17°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Charlotte usually gets more rain in April than Galveston. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Galveston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Galveston and Charlotte

Charlotte Galveston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)