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

Should you visit Galveston or Newport?

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

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Galveston and Newport: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Galveston or Newport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newport. Although Galveston and Newport are both popular with visitors, Newport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newport is more popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Galveston is known for its nightlife. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. Newport is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also home to Thames Street.

How is Galveston different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Galveston
Newport

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

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 Newport can be an interesting and educational experience. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.


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

Galveston
Newport

Newport is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Newport has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. 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 Galveston or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Newport

Galveston is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Galveston or Newport Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Newport

Newport is great for the beache. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the beach.

Newport is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

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.


Is Galveston or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Newport

Newport is great for its old town. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Galveston offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Newport?

Galveston
Newport

Newport is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Newport is well-known for its shopping. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go 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 Galveston or Newport Better for Families?

Galveston
Newport

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Galveston or Newport.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Galveston is very family-friendly. 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.

Newport is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.


Is Galveston or Newport Better for Couples?

Galveston
Newport

Newport is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Newport has plenty to offer. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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.

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

Galveston
Newport

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

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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 Newport a more walkable city?

Galveston
Newport

Newport is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Newport is a very walkable town. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Newport or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Newport?

In either Galveston or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Galveston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than Galveston 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 Newport.


  • How many days in Galveston or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Galveston or Newport?

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 Newport. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Newport?

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 nightlife around the seaside destination of Newport. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Newport?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the seaside town of Newport. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.


A week in Galveston or Newport?

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.

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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, Newport 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 Newport is $159. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Newport $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $45

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Newport $17

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: $181
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $16
  • Authentic Galveston Ghost City Tour: $25
  • Baywatch Dolphin Tour : $25
  • Baywatch Galveston Island Bus Tours: $25
  • Dark Side and Cemeteries of Galveston – Walking Tour: $352
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Guide: $34
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour with Red Light District: $20
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Tour: $999
  • Galveston Ghosts of the Gulf Haunted Tour: $33
  • Galveston Great Storm Talk and Tour : $35
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20

Tours and Activities in Newport

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

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $27
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour: $30
  • Evening Voyage with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $45
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $225
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $42
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport: $45
  • Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat: $45
  • Newport Beach Private Tour & Whale Watching Cruise: $395
  • Newport Cliff Walk & Ocean Drive Self-Guided Tours Bundle: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Newport $14

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 Newport, we can see that Galveston 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 Newport Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Newport?

Galveston has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Newport. The summer months attract visitors to Galveston because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

In the summer, Galveston is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the summer temperatures in Galveston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Newport averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In July, Galveston usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Newport. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Galveston is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 71°F (22°C), and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Galveston usually gets less rain in October than Newport. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Galveston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Newport can get quite cold in the winter. Galveston is much warmer than Newport in the winter. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

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


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

Should I visit Galveston or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and Galveston during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Galveston in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Galveston is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the spring temperatures in Galveston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Newport averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Galveston usually gets less rain in April than Newport. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Galveston

Galveston Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)