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

Should you visit Galveston or Hershey?

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

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Hershey

Hershey is a fun-filled, playful, and lighthearted town. Visitors also love the shopping and museums.

Galveston and Hershey: 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
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Galveston or Hershey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Galveston. Although Galveston and Hershey are popular destinations, Galveston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Galveston is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Hershey attracts visitors for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Galveston and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Galveston is famous for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also well known for Pleasure Pier.

How is Galveston different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Galveston
Hershey

Galveston is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Galveston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Hershey offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).


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

Galveston
Hershey

Galveston is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Galveston or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Hershey

Galveston is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Galveston know how to have a good time. 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.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Is Galveston or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Galveston
Hershey

Hershey is great for its luxury resorts. However, Galveston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hershey. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Galveston is not a resort destination.


Is Galveston or Hershey Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Hershey

Galveston is a popular place for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Galveston is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is Galveston or Hershey Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Hershey

Galveston is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Hershey?

Galveston
Hershey

If you're looking to go shopping, Galveston and Hershey 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 Hershey to go shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.


Is Galveston or Hershey Better for Families?

Galveston
Hershey

Hershey is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Hershey is one of the most popular family destinations. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

Galveston is known to be 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.

Is Galveston or Hershey Better for Couples?

Galveston
Hershey

Both Galveston and Hershey are great 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.

Hershey is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

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

Galveston
Hershey

Galveston and Hershey 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 Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.


Is Galveston or Hershey a more walkable city?

Galveston
Hershey

Galveston is a popular place for its walkability. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Hershey is generally not a very walkable town. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Hershey?

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

Couples should spend more time in Galveston than Hershey. 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 Hershey 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 Hershey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Hershey 2-3

One day in Galveston or Hershey?

In Galveston, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Hershey. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Hershey?

In Galveston, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Galveston has to offer.

You'll find museums and shopping around the fun-filled destination of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Hershey?

Galveston is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lighthearted town of Hershey. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Galveston or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galveston. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galveston. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Hershey is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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, Hershey 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 Hershey is $212. 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 Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Hershey? 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 Hershey


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 Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Hershey $49

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey 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
    Hershey $61

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 Hershey

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


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Hershey $53

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 Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

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

  • Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Hershey $27

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 comparing the travel costs between Galveston and Hershey, we can see that Hershey 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 Hershey Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Hershey?

Galveston has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Hershey, 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 Hershey?

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 Hershey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Hershey. Most visitors come to Galveston for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hershey because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Galveston is generally a little warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 84°F (29°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

Galveston usually gets less rain in July than Hershey. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Galveston because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

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

In October, Galveston usually receives less rain than Hershey. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Galveston or Hershey in the Winter?

Both Hershey and Galveston during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hershey. In the winter, Galveston is much warmer than Hershey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Galveston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Hershey averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

Galveston usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Hershey. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Hershey. Many travelers come to Galveston for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Galveston is generally much warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 70°F (21°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In April, Galveston usually receives less rain than Hershey. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Galveston

Galveston Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)