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

Should you visit Galveston or Redwood 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 Redwood 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 food, beaches, and shopping. See Galveston travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a impressive, monumental, and grand park. Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Galveston and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Galveston. Although Galveston and Redwood National Park are both popular with visitors, Galveston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Galveston is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Redwood National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also home to Pleasure Pier. Redwood National Park is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Galveston different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Galveston
Redwood National Park

Galveston is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


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

Galveston
Redwood National Park

Galveston is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood 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.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Galveston or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Redwood National Park

Galveston is well known for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Galveston or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Redwood National Park

Galveston and Redwood National Park are good choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Galveston to enjoy the beach. 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.

Redwood National Park has a beach worth visiting. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.


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

Galveston
Redwood National Park

Galveston is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Redwood 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.

Redwood National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Galveston or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Redwood National Park

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

Many people visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Redwood National Park?

Galveston
Redwood National Park

Galveston is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

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.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.


Is Galveston or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Galveston
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Galveston or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Galveston
Redwood National Park

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Galveston or Redwood 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.

Redwood National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Galveston or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Galveston
Redwood National Park

Both Galveston and Redwood National Park are high quality 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.

Redwood National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.


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

Galveston
Redwood National Park

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

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Redwood National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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

Galveston
Redwood National Park

Galveston is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood 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 Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Galveston or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Galveston
Redwood National Park

Galveston is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood 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.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.


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

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

How long in Galveston or Redwood National Park?

In either Galveston or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park.

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

One day in Galveston or Redwood National Park?

In Galveston, you'll find shopping and museums. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Galveston, one day is sufficent for most.

You'll find around the park of Redwood National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galveston. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the monumental destination of Redwood 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 park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Galveston or Redwood National Park?

Galveston is a fun place to experience. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find around the grand park of Redwood National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.


A week in Galveston or Redwood National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal destination of Galveston. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Redwood National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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, Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Galveston $221
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $221, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $135. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Redwood 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 Redwood 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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Redwood National Park $53

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

Prices for flights to both Redwood 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 $90
    Redwood National Park $56

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 all-inclusive family friendly food tours: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Redwood National Park $33

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: $9.53
  • Self-Guided Galveston Ghost Audio Tour : $10
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Adventure in League City : $10
  • 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
  • Galveston Sweets and Treats Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Redwood National Park $11

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
  • 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 Redwood National Park, we can see that Galveston is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood 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 Redwood 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 Redwood National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Galveston or Redwood National Park?

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 Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Redwood National Park. Many visitors come to Galveston in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Galveston is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Galveston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in July than Redwood National Park. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

Both Redwood National Park and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Galveston is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 71°F (22°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In October, Galveston usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

Both Redwood National Park and Galveston during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Galveston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Galveston is a little warmer than Redwood National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Redwood National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Galveston usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Redwood National Park. The beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Galveston is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Galveston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In April, Galveston usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Galveston

Galveston Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)