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

Should you visit Saint Louis or Galveston?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Saint Louis and Galveston. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Saint Louis

Saint Louis is a unexpected, fascinating, and under rated city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

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 food, beaches, and shopping.

Saint Louis and Galveston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Saint Louis or Galveston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Galveston than Saint Louis. While Saint Louis is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Galveston is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Saint Louis attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Galveston is more touristy than Saint Louis and is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also well known for Pleasure Pier. Saint Louis is famous for its blues and live music scene, its authentic personality, and its position as the Gateway to the West.

How is Saint Louis different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Galveston and Saint Louis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Louis or Galveston?

Saint Louis
Galveston

Saint Louis is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Saint Louis are world-renowned. There are a surprising number of museums around town. For art museums you should visit the Contemporary Art Museum, the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum. For history, the Griot Museum of Black History, the Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum, and the Lewis & Clark Museum and Boathouse are all interesting. There are also science, educational, and children's museums. And of course, there's the iconic Gateway Arch.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Galveston can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.


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

Saint Louis
Galveston

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saint Louis and Galveston can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Saint Louis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are some local dishes that originated here. Toasted ravioli had its start in St. Louis. There's also a St. Louis style pizza. Diners, cafes, and sandwiches are all part of the food scene and be prepared for cheese, meaty, and satisfying.

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.

Is Saint Louis or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

Saint Louis
Galveston

Galveston is well known for nightlife. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Louis has a few options to choose from. Visitors often hang out in the downtown area, particularly around Washington Avenue, for the nightlife scene. Live music is popular, especially the blues, and there are many local venues worth checking out.

Is Saint Louis or Galveston Better for Beaches?

Saint Louis
Galveston

Galveston is a good destination for its beaches. However, Saint Louis is not a beach destination.

Galveston offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Saint Louis is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Louis or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

Saint Louis
Galveston

Galveston is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Saint Louis 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.

Saint Louis does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Louis or Galveston?

Saint Louis
Galveston

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

Saint Louis is well-known for its shopping. There are vintage stores, boutiques, and suburban strip malls around town. There are also farmer's markets and art galleries.

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 Saint Louis or Galveston Better for Families?

Saint Louis
Galveston

Both Saint Louis and Galveston are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Saint Louis is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of activities for kids around town. There's the St. Louis Zoo and the City Museum with many hands-on exhibits for kids. There's also the Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary and several farms with animals and nature. Forest Park is an impressive urban park as well.

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.


Is Saint Louis or Galveston Better for Couples?

Saint Louis
Galveston

Galveston is well known for romance. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Saint Louis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fine dining restaurants and eclectic activities make this city an often overlooked couples destination.

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

Saint Louis
Galveston

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

Public transit in Saint Louis can get you to some places easily. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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 Saint Louis or Galveston a more walkable city?

Saint Louis
Galveston

Saint Louis and Galveston both are nice when exploring on foot.

Saint Louis is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, like the downtown area and the sections around the Gateway Arch.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Galveston or Saint Louis?

How long in Saint Louis or Galveston?

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

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


  • How many days in Saint Louis or Galveston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Louis 1-3 
    Galveston 1-3

One day in Saint Louis or Galveston?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Saint Louis. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Louis has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal town of Galveston. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Saint Louis or Galveston?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating destination of Saint Louis. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the coastal destination of Galveston. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Louis or Galveston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the unexpected city of Saint Louis. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The historic town of Galveston offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Saint Louis or Galveston?

Saint Louis 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galveston. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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, Galveston or Saint Louis?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Louis is $184, while the average daily cost in Galveston is $183. 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 Saint Louis and Galveston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Louis $101
    Galveston $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Louis $202
    Galveston $162
Compare Hotels in Saint Louis and Galveston

Looking for a hotel in Saint Louis or Galveston? 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 Saint Louis


Hotels in Galveston


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: Saint Louis Hotel Prices and Galveston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Louis $26
    Galveston $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint Louis

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Saint Louis:

  • St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) to St. Louis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $130
  • Departure Transfer St. Louis to St. Louis Airport by Car or SUV: $116
  • Arrival transfer St. Louis Airport STL to St. Louis by Car or SUV: $116
  • Private Transfer in Saint Louis, MO (STL): $80
  • Private Transfer from Port Louis Airport (MRU) to Port Louis Port: $76
  • St. Louis City to St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) - Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) to St. Louis City - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Private Transfers for Departure from Queens to JFK Airport: $29

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Louis or Galveston?

Prices for flights to both Galveston and Saint Louis 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
    Saint Louis $54
    Galveston $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint Louis

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Saint Louis.

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - St. Louis, MO: $86

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.
    Saint Louis $46
    Galveston $15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Saint Louis

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


  • Gateway Arch parking
    $6.00

Tours and Activities in Saint Louis

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

  • Best of St. Louis Small Group Tour w/St Louis Arch & River Cruise: $174
  • ChocoCulture Saint Louis Half-Day Private Tour: $298
  • Exploring St. Louis with the Family Walking Tour: $210
  • Interstate 55: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $5.20
  • Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour: $15
  • Landmarks Downtown-West Walking Tour: $15
  • Lemp Haunted Neighborhood Walking Tour: $25
  • Private Gastronomy Barbecue Tour in St. Louis: $125
  • Romantic Tour in The City of Love: $174
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in St. Louis by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • St Louis Cardinals Baseball Game Ticket at Busch Stadium: $12
  • St. Louis Arch and River Cruise Small Group Walking Tour: $144

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: $8.71
  • 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
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $20
  • Galveston's Flower Winery Tour at the Florvino Winery: $20
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • The Ghosts of Galveston Guided Walking Tour: $25
  • Ghost-Themed Walking Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Louis $19
    Galveston $37

Sample the Local Flavors in Saint Louis

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Saint Louis:

  • The Haunted Lemp Brewery Bottle Works Tour: $25

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


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Louis and Galveston, we can see that Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis Expensive? and Is Galveston Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Louis or Galveston?

Saint Louis has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Saint Louis and Galveston, 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 Saint Louis or Galveston?

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 Saint Louis or Galveston in the Summer?

Both Galveston and Saint Louis during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Louis for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Galveston in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Louis is around the same temperature as Galveston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Louis in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Galveston averages at about 84°F (29°C).

Saint Louis usually gets more rain in July than Galveston. Saint Louis gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Louis 81°F (27°C) 
    Galveston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Saint Louis or Galveston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Louis and Galveston. Many visitors come to Saint Louis in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In October, Saint Louis is generally cooler than Galveston. Daily temperatures in Saint Louis average around 60°F (16°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In October, Saint Louis usually receives more rain than Galveston. Saint Louis gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Louis 60°F (16°C) 
    Galveston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Saint Louis or Galveston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Louis as well as Galveston. Most visitors come to Saint Louis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Galveston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Saint Louis can be very cold during winter. Saint Louis is much colder than Galveston in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Louis averages around 31°F (-1°C) in January, and Galveston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Saint Louis usually gets less rain in January than Galveston. Saint Louis gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Louis 31°F (-1°C) 
    Galveston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Saint Louis or Galveston in the Spring?

Both Galveston and Saint Louis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Galveston this time of year.

In the spring, Saint Louis is cooler than Galveston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Louis in April average around 58°F (15°C), and Galveston averages at about 70°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Saint Louis. In April, Saint Louis usually receives more rain than Galveston. Saint Louis gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Louis 58°F (15°C) 
    Galveston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Galveston and Saint Louis

Saint Louis Galveston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-1°C) 2 inches (52 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Aug 79°F (26°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 60°F (16°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Nov 48°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)