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

Should you visit Galveston or Aspen?

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 Aspen 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 nightlife, food, and beaches. See Galveston travel costs.

Aspen

Aspen is a charming, quaint, and vibrant ski town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Aspen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Aspen travel costs.

Galveston and Aspen: 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 for food
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Galveston or Aspen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Aspen. Although Galveston and Aspen are both popular with visitors, Aspen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Aspen is more popular for its skiing, food, music, resorts, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Galveston is known for its museums and attractions, beaches, and historical sights. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. Aspen is popular for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. It is also home to The Maroon Bells.

How is Galveston different from Aspen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Galveston or Aspen Better for Skiing?

Galveston
Aspen

Aspen is an amazing ski town to visit for skiing. However, Galveston is not a skiing destination.

Aspen is among the world's best ski destinations. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Galveston is not a skiing destination.


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

Galveston
Aspen

Galveston is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Galveston
Aspen

Aspen is an amazing ski town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Aspen has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

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 Aspen Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Aspen

The vibe at night is superb in both Galveston and Aspen.

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.

Aspen has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.


Is Galveston or Aspen Better for Music?

Galveston
Aspen

Aspen is great for its live music scene. However, Galveston is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Aspen draws a good crowd. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Galveston is not a live music destination.

Is Galveston or Aspen Better for Resorts?

Galveston
Aspen

Aspen is great for its luxury resorts. However, Galveston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Aspen. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

Galveston is not a resort destination.

Is Galveston or Aspen Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Aspen

Galveston is a town with good options for the beach. However, Aspen 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.

Aspen is not a beach destination.


Is Galveston or Aspen Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Aspen

Galveston is a town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Aspen 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.

Aspen does not have a historic old town.

Is Galveston or Aspen Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Aspen

Aspen is great for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Aspen for the hiking trails. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Aspen?

Galveston
Aspen

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

Aspen is well-known for its shopping. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

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 Aspen More Beautiful?

Galveston
Aspen

Aspen is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Aspen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Surrounded by the mountains and set amongst a beautiful natural setting, this town will take your breath away.

Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Galveston or Aspen Better for Families?

Galveston
Aspen

Galveston is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Galveston or Aspen Better for Couples?

Galveston
Aspen

Both Galveston and Aspen are superb 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.

Aspen is a very popular place to visit for couples. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.


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

Galveston
Aspen

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

While Aspen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are several shuttle buses around the 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 Galveston or Aspen a more walkable city?

Galveston
Aspen

Aspen 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.

Aspen is a very walkable ski town. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

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 Aspen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aspen or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Aspen?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aspen 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 Aspen.


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

One day in Galveston or Aspen?

In Galveston, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Even though Aspen is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Aspen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galveston. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Aspen is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music. 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 ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Galveston or Aspen?

Galveston is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Galveston. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aspen is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this ski town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this ski town has to offer.

A week in Galveston or Aspen?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Galveston. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Aspen is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Aspen or Galveston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Galveston Prices
    USA Prices
    Aspen Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Galveston $221
    Aspen $355

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $221, while the average daily cost in Aspen is $355. 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 Aspen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Aspen $170
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Aspen $340
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Aspen

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Aspen? 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 Aspen


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 Aspen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Aspen $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aspen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aspen:

  • Aspen hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $143

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Aspen?

Prices for flights to both Aspen 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 $90
    Aspen $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Aspen $45

Tours and Activities in Galveston

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

  • Galveston Luggage Storage Close to Cruise Terminal: $9.54
  • Beer Tasting Experience with 4 Beer Flight: $10
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Al's Ghost tour : a small group experience : $19
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Mansions and Murder Walking Tour : $23
  • Galveston's Secrets of the Strand Walking Tour : $23
  • The Grimoire Ghouls and Graves: Galveston Ghost Tour: $24
  • The Grimoire Ghouls and Graves: Galveston Ghost Tour: $25
  • Dolphin-Watching Cruise: $25
  • Galveston Shadows Ghost Tour Adventure: $25
  • Galveston Sweets and Treats Tour: $25

Tours and Activities in Aspen

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

  • Aspen Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Aspen Self-Guided Tour: Tales of Wealth, Wildness and Rebellion: $15
  • Aspen's DarkSide Ghost Tour: $45
  • Aspen's Off the Beaten Path Scenic Walking Tour: $45
  • Aspen's Off the Beaten Path Tour: $45
  • Aspen's Past to Present Historic Tour: $45
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $45
  • Dark History Ghost-Themed Guided Walking Tour: $45
  • From Past to Present History Walking Tour: $45
  • Cemetery Tour: $45
  • Highlights of Aspen Tour: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Aspen $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

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

  • Haunted Pub Crawl & Scandalous Red Light Tour: $20
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $20
  • Haunted Pub Crawl & Scandalous Red Light Tour in Galveston: $29
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl and Historical Tour near The Strand: $29
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Galveston and Aspen, we can see that Aspen is more expensive. And not only is Galveston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Galveston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Galveston 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 Aspen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aspen than you might in Galveston.

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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Aspen?

Galveston has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and Aspen, 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.