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

Should you visit Galveston or Wisconsin Dells?

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 Wisconsin Dells can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a charming, coastal, and historic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a lighthearted, high energy, and fun-filled city. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Galveston and Wisconsin Dells: 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
  • 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 Wisconsin Dells?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Galveston than Wisconsin Dells, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Galveston is better known for its museums, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Wisconsin Dells is more popular for its resorts and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Galveston and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Galveston is well known for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. Also, Galveston is famous for Pleasure Pier.

How is Galveston different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

Galveston is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options 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.

While most people don't head to Wisconsin Dells specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of art galleries in the area, but most visitors spend the majority of their time at the theme parks and waterparks.


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

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Galveston and Wisconsin Dells can be difficult as they are each notable 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 Wisconsin Dells area. Pizza, pasta, burgers, and steak in a family-friendly atmosphere are the most common options in the area. There are also a few fine dining restaurants as well as pubs and brunch places to choose from.

Is Galveston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

The vibe at night is great in both Galveston and Wisconsin Dells.

Many people head to Galveston for the nightlife scene. 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.

Wisconsin Dells has plenty to do after the sun goes down. In the evening the fun-filled atmosphere takes on a different vibe. There are bars, clubs, casinos, and shows that keep things lively throughout the evening.

Is Galveston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

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

With a selection of resorts, Wisconsin Dells makes a nice vacation spot. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Galveston is not a resort destination.


Is Galveston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

Galveston is a popular place for the beache. However, Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Galveston or Wisconsin Dells Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

Galveston is a popular place for its old town. However, Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Galveston to see the 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.

Wisconsin Dells does not have a historic old town.

Is Galveston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Wisconsin Dells. Visitors often forget that this was originally a destination for its natural beauty. There are still many hiking trails in the area with some of the favorites found at Mirror Lake State Park, Rocky Arbor State Park, and Chimney Rock Private Park.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Wisconsin Dells?

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

Galveston is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Galveston offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Wisconsin Dells has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.

Is Galveston or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

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

Wisconsin Dells is one of the most popular family destinations. While it used to be known for its impressive sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River, today it has a more touristy atmosphere with theme parks and amusement parks. It's also become known as the "Water Park Capital of the World", and it won't disappoint. There are both indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as train rides, boat rides, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

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 Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

Galveston is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Galveston frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.


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

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

Galveston is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options 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 Wisconsin Dells. There's no real public transportation in the area.

Is Galveston or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Galveston
Wisconsin Dells

Galveston is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable town. While the downtown area is walkable, you really need a car to access everything that the area has to offer.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Galveston or Wisconsin Dells. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells.

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

Couples should spend more time in Galveston than Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Galveston or Wisconsin Dells?

The coastal destination of Galveston offers nightlife and food. 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 city of Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells?

The town of Galveston offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and nightlife around the lighthearted destination of Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells?

Galveston is a great place to explore. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled city of Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galveston. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Wisconsin Dells 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, Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells is $142. 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 Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Wisconsin Dells? 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 Wisconsin Dells


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 Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Wisconsin Dells $35

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): $193
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $168
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston to HOU Airport: $168
  • Private Transfer from Port of Galveston to Houston Airport (HOU): $168

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells 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
    Wisconsin Dells $43

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
    Wisconsin Dells $46

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
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Adventure in League City : $10
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $15
  • Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Museum Ticket: $15
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $16
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Spooky Strand Ghost Tour: $20
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20
  • Galveston Island Red Light District Tour: $20
  • Historic Galveston Red Light District Tour: $20

Tours and Activities in Wisconsin Dells

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

  • City and History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

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
  • Historical Walking Tour and Pub Crawl: $20
  • 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 Wisconsin Dells, we can see that Galveston is more expensive. And not only is Wisconsin Dells much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Wisconsin Dells would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells.

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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Wisconsin Dells?

Galveston has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Wisconsin Dells, 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 Wisconsin Dells?

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 Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Galveston is a little warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the summer. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

Galveston usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Wisconsin Dells. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

Both Wisconsin Dells 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 hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year.

In the autumn, Galveston is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Galveston in October average around 71°F (22°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In October, Galveston usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

Both Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Wisconsin Dells. In January, Galveston is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 52°F (11°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 19°F (-7°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

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

Galveston is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the spring. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

In April, Galveston usually receives less rain than Wisconsin Dells. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Galveston

Galveston Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)