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

Should you visit Galveston or Cleveland?

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 Cleveland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a diverse, authentic, and under-rated city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Galveston and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Galveston or Cleveland?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Galveston than Cleveland. While Cleveland is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Galveston is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Cleveland attracts visitors for its music. Galveston is more touristy than Cleveland and is known for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also well known for Pleasure Pier. Cleveland is famous for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Galveston different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cleveland 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 Cleveland?

Galveston
Cleveland

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Galveston and Cleveland.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cleveland can be an interesting and educational experience. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.


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

Galveston
Cleveland

Galveston is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Galveston. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Galveston or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Cleveland

Galveston is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Galveston has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Galveston or Cleveland Better for Music?

Galveston
Cleveland

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

The music scene in Cleveland draws a good crowd. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

Galveston is not a live music destination.


Is Galveston or Cleveland Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Cleveland

Galveston is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Galveston has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Is Galveston or Cleveland Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Cleveland

Galveston is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Cleveland does not have a historic old town.

Galveston is a good destination for visiting its 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.

Cleveland does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Cleveland?

Galveston
Cleveland

If you're looking to go shopping, Galveston and Cleveland 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 Cleveland to go shopping. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.


Is Galveston or Cleveland Better for Families?

Galveston
Cleveland

Galveston is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Galveston is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Galveston or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Galveston
Cleveland

Galveston is a very popular place for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Galveston makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.

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

Galveston
Cleveland

Galveston and Cleveland both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.


Is Galveston or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Galveston
Cleveland

Galveston is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

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

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Cleveland?

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

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

One day in Galveston or Cleveland?

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 Cleveland. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cleveland has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Galveston or Cleveland?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Cleveland. 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 Cleveland?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal 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 nightlife and live music when visiting the under-rated city of Cleveland. 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 Cleveland?

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.

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


Which place is cheaper, Cleveland 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 Cleveland is $132. 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 Cleveland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Cleveland $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Cleveland $150
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Cleveland

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Cleveland? 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 Cleveland


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 Cleveland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Cleveland $19

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
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $193
  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $193
  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $168
  • Galveston Port to George Bush Airport Private Departure Transfer: $193

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Cleveland are as follows:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cleveland

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

  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $178
  • CLE Airport Transfer to Downtown Cleveland: $135
  • Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) - Departure Private Transfer : $89
  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Arrival Private Transfer : $89
  • Private Departure Transfer to Cleveland Airport (CLE): $64
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Cleveland Airprot (CLE): $64

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Cleveland?

Prices for flights to both Cleveland 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
    Cleveland $36

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 Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    $1.79
  • Sandwich
    $9.75
  • Large Pizza
    $15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cleveland

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

  • West Side Market Food Tour: $49
  • Little Italy Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $74
  • Tremont Neighborhood Food Tour: $75
  • Ohio City Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Cleveland $40

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: $180
  • 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 Tour: $25
  • Galveston Ghosts of the Gulf Haunted Tour: $33
  • Galveston Great Storm Talk and Tour : $35

Tours and Activities in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • CLE Mini Bus Group Tour: $55
  • Cleveland Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Cleveland From the Inside Walking Tour: $24
  • Cleveland Ghosts Tour: $32
  • Cleveland Guardians Baseball Game Ticket at Progressive Field: $27
  • Cleveland Romance: A Walking Tour for Couples: $469
  • Cleveland Romance: A Walking Tour for Couples: $239
  • Cleveland Cavaliers Basketball Game Ticket: $45
  • Cleveland History Center General Admission Ticket: $15
  • Eerie Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $24
  • Escape Room Game Entry Ticket with Host: $39
  • Downtown Cleveland Public Art Walking Tour : $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Cleveland $45

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

Typical Alcohol Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Cleveland are as follows:


  • A Night of Shots
    $36


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

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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Cleveland?

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

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 Galveston or Cleveland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Cleveland. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cleveland for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Galveston is generally a little warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 84°F (29°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

Cleveland receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Galveston usually receives less rain than Cleveland. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Cleveland 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Cleveland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Cleveland. Many travelers come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, many visitors come to Cleveland in the autumn for the shopping scene and the music scene.

Galveston is much warmer than Cleveland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Cleveland fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in October than Cleveland. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Cleveland 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Cleveland in the Winter?

Both Cleveland and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Galveston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cleveland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cleveland can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Galveston is much warmer than Cleveland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Galveston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Cleveland averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In January, Galveston usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Cleveland 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Cleveland in the Spring?

Both Cleveland and Galveston during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Galveston for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

In April, Galveston is generally much warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 70°F (21°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

Galveston usually gets less rain in April than Cleveland. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Cleveland 51°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Cleveland and Galveston

Galveston Cleveland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 40°F (5°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 34°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)