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

Should you visit Galveston or Anchorage?

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 Galveston and Anchorage can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a artsy, nature-oriented, and outdoorsy city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking.

Galveston and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Galveston or Anchorage?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Galveston than Anchorage. While Anchorage is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Galveston is very popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Anchorage attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Galveston is famous for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also well known for Pleasure Pier. Anchorage is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Galveston different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Galveston
Anchorage

Galveston is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


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

Galveston
Anchorage

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Galveston and Anchorage can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Galveston has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Anchorage area. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Galveston or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Anchorage

Galveston is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

Galveston offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Galveston or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Anchorage

Galveston is a town with good options for its beaches. However, Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Galveston. 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.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.


Is Galveston or Anchorage Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Anchorage

Galveston is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Galveston to see the historical 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.

Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Is Galveston or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Anchorage

Anchorage is an amazing city to visit for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Anchorage specifically for its hiking. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Anchorage?

Galveston
Anchorage

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Galveston. 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.

Many visitors go to Anchorage to go shopping. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.


Is Galveston or Anchorage Better for Families?

Galveston
Anchorage

Galveston is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Galveston is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Anchorage is a family-friendly town. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Galveston or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Galveston
Anchorage

Both Galveston and Anchorage are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Anchorage is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Is Galveston or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galveston
Anchorage

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

Anchorage is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

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

Galveston
Anchorage

Galveston is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Galveston or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Galveston
Anchorage

Galveston is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable town. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Anchorage?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Galveston than Anchorage 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 Galveston or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Galveston or Anchorage?

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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Anchorage. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Galveston or Anchorage?

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.

You'll find museums and food around the cultural destination of Anchorage. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Galveston or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the nature-oriented city of Anchorage. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Galveston or Anchorage?

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.

Anchorage 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Galveston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $183, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $191. 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 Galveston and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Anchorage? 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 Galveston


Hotels in Anchorage


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: Galveston Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Anchorage $27

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • Private Transfer Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Whittier Cruise Port: $232
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Galveston 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
    Galveston $52
    Anchorage $50

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

Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of dining costs in Anchorage are as follows:


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage

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

  • City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Galveston

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

  • Self-Guided Ghost Tour on the Galveston Strand: $6.75
  • Luggage Storage in Cruise Terminal: $8.65
  • Unique Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Experience in League City: $10
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $15
  • Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Museum Ticket: $15
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Galveston's Flower Winery Tour at the Florvino Winery: $20
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $20
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • The Ghosts of Galveston Guided Walking Tour: $25
  • Ghost-Themed Walking Tour: $25

Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Anchorage are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Anchorage are as follows:

  • Adventurers Ready To Jump Into the Void Alaska Style Wanted: $39
  • Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour: $150
  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $226
  • 3 Hour Ladies Only Kayak Tour in Knik River: $130
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • Alaska 9 Day Ocean Wildlife to Interior Wilderness Adventure: $6,999
  • Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup: $115
  • Alaska Wildlife Tour: $110
  • Alaska's Most Scenic E-Bike Adventure: $224
  • Anchorage Aurora Tour and Northern Lights Photo: $295
  • Anchorage Brews Tour: $169
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69

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

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
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $109
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179


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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Anchorage, 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 Galveston or Anchorage?

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 Galveston or Anchorage in the Summer?

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

In July, Galveston is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 84°F (29°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Anchorage in the Autumn?

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

Anchorage can be very cold during autumn. Galveston is much warmer than Anchorage in the autumn. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In October, Galveston usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Anchorage in the Winter?

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

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In the winter, Galveston is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the winter temperatures in Galveston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Anchorage averages at about 15°F (-9°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Anchorage in the Spring?

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

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the spring. In April, Galveston is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 70°F (21°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

In April, Galveston usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Galveston

Galveston Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)