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

Should you visit Galveston or Avon?

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 Avon 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 food, beaches, and shopping.

Avon

Avon is a scenic, active, and outdoorsy town. Visitors also love the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Galveston and Avon: 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 for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Galveston or Avon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Galveston. Although Galveston and Avon are popular destinations, Galveston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Galveston is very popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Avon attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, and hiking. Galveston is famous for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also well known for Pleasure Pier. Avon is famous for it's affordable accommodation options and its access to Beaver Creek Ski Resort.

How is Galveston different from Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Galveston or Avon Better for Skiing?

Galveston
Avon

Avon is great for skiing. However, Galveston is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Avon. Beaver Creek is the main ski area near town and it's about a mile away. The town of Avon is below Beaver Creek and is located beside an interstate.

Galveston is not a skiing destination.


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

Galveston
Avon

Galveston is notable for its sights and museums. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While there aren't a ton of museums in the area, it's worth checking out the Walking Mountains Science Center.

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

Galveston
Avon

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Galveston and Avon 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 Avon area. There are casual eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for Chinese, pizza, or burgers.

Is Galveston or Avon Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Avon

Galveston is notable for nightlife. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife and partying.

Galveston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Avon. It's a small town but there are some bars and lively pubs where you can enjoy cold drinks.


Is Galveston or Avon Better for Resorts?

Galveston
Avon

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

With a selection of resorts, Avon makes a nice vacation spot. There are the typical chain resort options, many with beautiful mountain views.

Galveston is not a resort destination.

Is Galveston or Avon Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Avon

Galveston is a good destination for its beaches. However, Avon 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.

Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Galveston or Avon Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Avon

Galveston is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Avon 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.

Avon does not have a historic old town.


Is Galveston or Avon Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Avon

Avon is very good for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Avon. There are paved trails and recreational paths through town that are great for both hiking and biking. The main ones are Eagle Valley Trail and the trails in West Avon Preserve.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Avon?

Galveston
Avon

Galveston is a good destination for shopping. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Avon has some nice offerings. There aren't a ton of shopping opportunities in town, but there are enough shops around in case you need to pick up necessities or buy a gift.

Is Galveston or Avon Better for Families?

Galveston
Avon

Galveston is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Avon is a family-friendly town. There are parks and playgrounds around town and there's easy access to the Beaver Creek Ski Resort. There's also plenty of hiking in the area.


Is Galveston or Avon Better for Couples?

Galveston
Avon

Galveston is notable for romance. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Galveston is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Avon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While avid skiers prefer to stay at nearby Beaver Creek, the town of Avon offers a good alternative.

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

Galveston
Avon

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

While Avon offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttles and buses that travel through town and to Beaver Creek.

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 Galveston or Avon a more walkable city?

Galveston
Avon

Galveston and Avon are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Avon is a somewhat walkable town. The town center is small and there are paved walking trails that you can use. It's possible to walk to restaurants or the recreation center, depending on where you're staying.


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

Should I spend more time in Avon or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Avon?

It's fun to spend time in either Galveston or Avon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Avon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 2-4 days is enough time in Avon.

Families should spend more time in Galveston than Avon. 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 Avon. 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 Avon 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 Avon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Avon 2-4

One day in Galveston or Avon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Galveston. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Avon. 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.

A weekend in Galveston or Avon?

Galveston is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and skiing around the scenic destination of Avon. 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 Galveston or Avon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal destination of Galveston. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the active town of Avon. 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 Galveston or Avon?

The coastal town of Galveston offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Avon 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 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, Avon 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 Avon is $277. 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 Avon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Avon $177
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Avon $354
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Avon

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Avon? 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 Avon


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 Avon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Avon $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $168
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston to HOU Airport: $168
  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $168
  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $194
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $194
  • Galveston Port to George Bush Airport Private Departure Transfer: $194

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Avon?

Prices for flights to both Avon 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
    Avon $67

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.
    Galveston $15
    Avon $48

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: $8.73
  • Unique Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Experience in League City: $10
  • Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Museum Ticket: $12
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $16
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $16
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Galveston Red Light District Tour: $20
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20
  • Galveston's Flower Winery Tour at the Florvino Winery: $20
  • Great! Galveston Ghost Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Avon $38

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Galveston and Avon, we can see that Avon is more expensive. And not only is Galveston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Galveston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Galveston 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 Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avon than you might in Galveston.

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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Avon?

Galveston has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Avon. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Avon, 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.