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

Should you visit Tallahassee or Galveston?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Galveston can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a youthful, lively, and vibrant city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Tallahassee and Galveston: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Tallahassee or Galveston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Galveston than Tallahassee. While Tallahassee is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Galveston is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also home to Pleasure Pier. Tallahassee is popular for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tallahassee or Galveston?

Tallahassee
Galveston

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Galveston and Tallahassee.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Tallahassee. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Galveston. 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 Tallahassee or Galveston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallahassee
Galveston

Galveston is a town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Galveston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Tallahassee or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Galveston

Galveston is great for its evening party scene. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Tallahassee or Galveston Better for Beaches?

Tallahassee
Galveston

Galveston is a town with good options for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Galveston. 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.


Is Tallahassee or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

Tallahassee
Galveston

Galveston is a town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Tallahassee does not have a historic old town.

Galveston has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Tallahassee does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Galveston?

Tallahassee
Galveston

If you're looking to go shopping, Tallahassee and Galveston both offer plenty of good spots.

Tallahassee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Galveston is a great destination for 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 Tallahassee or Galveston Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Galveston

Galveston is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Galveston. 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.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.


Is Tallahassee or Galveston Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Galveston

Galveston is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Tallahassee or Galveston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Galveston

Tallahassee is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

Tallahassee is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

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 Tallahassee or Galveston Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Galveston

Tallahassee is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston is not popular with students.

Tallahassee is very popular with students. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Galveston is not popular with students.


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

Tallahassee
Galveston

Tallahassee and Galveston both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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 Tallahassee or Galveston a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Galveston

Galveston is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Galveston or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Galveston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallahassee and Galveston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Galveston than in Tallahassee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Tallahassee, and 1-3 days is enough time in Galveston.

Families should spend more time in Galveston than Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee or Galveston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Galveston 1-3

One day in Tallahassee or Galveston?

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic 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 Tallahassee or Galveston?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Tallahassee. 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 charming 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 Tallahassee or Galveston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the lively city of Tallahassee. 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.

The charming 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 Tallahassee or Galveston?

Tallahassee 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Galveston or Tallahassee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $156, 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 Tallahassee and Galveston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Galveston $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Galveston $162
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Galveston

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee


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: Tallahassee Hotel Prices and Galveston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Galveston $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Galveston?

Prices for flights to both Galveston and Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47
    Galveston $52

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.
    Tallahassee $12
    Galveston $15

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $246
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $481
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $191
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $375

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: $179
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $15
  • Authentic Galveston Ghost City Tour: $25
  • Baywatch Dolphin Tour : $25
  • Baywatch Galveston Island Bus Tours: $25
  • Dark Side and Cemeteries of Galveston – Walking Tour: $351
  • Demo and Reno Galveston Reconstructed Private Tour: $85
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Guide: $34
  • Galveston Cemetery Private Tour: $85
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour with Red Light District: $25
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Tour: $25
  • Galveston Ghosts of the Gulf Haunted Tour: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Galveston $37

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

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


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Galveston?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee or Galveston?

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 Tallahassee or Galveston in the Summer?

Both Galveston and Tallahassee are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tallahassee in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Galveston for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Tallahassee is generally around the same temperature as Galveston. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 82°F (28°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. In July, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Galveston. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C) 
    Galveston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Galveston in the Autumn?

Both Galveston and Tallahassee during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tallahassee for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Galveston because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Tallahassee is around the same temperature as Galveston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and Galveston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Tallahassee usually gets more rain in October than Galveston. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Galveston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Galveston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Galveston. The winter months attract visitors to Tallahassee because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Galveston this time of year.

In the winter, Tallahassee is around the same temperature as Galveston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tallahassee in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Galveston averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In January, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Galveston. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Galveston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Galveston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tallahassee as well as Galveston. Also, many travelers come to Galveston for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Tallahassee is generally around the same temperature as Galveston. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 67°F (19°C), and Galveston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Tallahassee receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in April than Galveston. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Galveston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Galveston and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Galveston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)