A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Galveston vs. Yellowstone National Park for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Galveston or Yellowstone National Park?

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 Yellowstone National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a unique, stunning, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Galveston and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Galveston or Yellowstone National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Galveston. Although Galveston and Yellowstone National Park are both popular with visitors, Galveston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Galveston is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Yellowstone National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Galveston and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also home to Pleasure Pier.

How is Galveston different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Galveston is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Galveston or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Galveston is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Galveston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Galveston is well known for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Galveston is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Galveston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for its luxury resorts. However, Galveston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Yellowstone National Park. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

Galveston is not a resort destination.


Is Galveston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Galveston is a popular place for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Galveston or Yellowstone National Park Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Galveston is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.

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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Galveston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Yellowstone National Park?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Galveston is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Galveston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Galveston or Yellowstone National Park.

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.

Yellowstone National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Is Galveston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Both Galveston and Yellowstone National Park 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.


Is Galveston or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yellowstone National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

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

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Galveston is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known 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 Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Galveston or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Galveston
Yellowstone National Park

Galveston is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable town. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.


For even more information, also check out Is Galveston Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Galveston and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than in Galveston. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

Families should spend more time in Galveston than Yellowstone National Park. 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 Yellowstone National Park. 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 Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Galveston or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal town of Galveston. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find around the national park of Yellowstone National Park. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Galveston. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find around the popular destination of Yellowstone National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Galveston or Yellowstone National Park?

Galveston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the popular national park of Yellowstone National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.


A week in Galveston or Yellowstone National Park?

Galveston is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yellowstone National Park, one week is sufficent for most. 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, Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park is $147. 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 Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Yellowstone National Park? 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 Yellowstone National Park


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 Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park 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
    Yellowstone National Park $46

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
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • Self-Guided Ghost Tour on the Galveston Strand: $6.75
  • Luggage Storage in Cruise Terminal: $8.73
  • Unique Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Experience in League City: $10
  • Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Museum Ticket: $12
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $16
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $16
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Galveston Red Light District Tour: $20
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20
  • Galveston's Flower Winery Tour at the Florvino Winery: $20
  • Great! Galveston Ghost Tour: $20

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

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

  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • 5-Day Winter Yellowstone Wildlife Tour: $3,349
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $200
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $269
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone 3-day Tour Round-trip From Salt Lake City: $1,088

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Yellowstone National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Galveston and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Galveston is more expensive. And not only is Yellowstone National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yellowstone National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park.

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