A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gainesville vs. Greensboro for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Gainesville or Greensboro?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Gainesville or Greensboro, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Gainesville

Gainesville is a vibrant, high energy, and active city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Greensboro

Greensboro is a under-rated, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Gainesville and Greensboro: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Gainesville or Greensboro?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Gainesville than Greensboro. While Greensboro is larger than Gainesville, Gainesville has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Gainesville is famous for being the home of the University of Florida It is also well known for the Florida Museum of Natural History. Greensboro is famous for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Gainesville different from Greensboro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gainesville or Greensboro?

Gainesville
Greensboro

Gainesville is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Gainesville. There's a surprising number of museums around town such as the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, and the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. Also fascinating is the Historic Haile Homestead, the Butterfly Rainforest, and the city's planetarium.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Greensboro. The Greensboro Science Center is a highlight for families. Other interesting museums around town include the Elsewhere Modern Art Museum, the Greensboro History Museum, the International Civil Rights Center, and the Weatherspoon Art Museum.


Is the Food Better in Gainesville or Greensboro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gainesville
Greensboro

Gainesville is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Gainesville. Casual eateries are popular around town, particularly with the student population. There are grills, diners, and bistros that serve local dishes at affordable prices.

Greensboro may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a good selection of restaurants around town with Mexican, southern, Italian, and Chinese all being popular options.

Is Gainesville or Greensboro Better for Nightlife?

Gainesville
Greensboro

Gainesville is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Gainesville is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife centers around the student population. The two main party areas are Midtown and Downtown. Midtown is between Northwest 17th Street and Northwest 18th Street and it's convenient for students who live on campus. The area has a great stretch of bars and clubs. The Downtown area has many of the city's top clubs, and it's popular with upperclassmen and students who live off campus.

If you're looking for night time activities Greensboro has a few options to choose from. Head downtown for the most trendy bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

Is the Shopping Better in Gainesville or Greensboro?

Gainesville
Greensboro

Both Gainesville and Greensboro are nice shopping destinations.

Gainesville is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town such as malls, shopping centers, and retail outlets. Two popular areas are the Neighborhoods at Butler and Celebration Pointe.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Greensboro. There are shopping centers and shopping malls around town as well as some interesting local boutiques.


Is Gainesville or Greensboro Better for Families?

Gainesville
Greensboro

Gainesville and Greensboro are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Gainesville is a family-friendly place to visit. You'll find outdoor activities, nature parks, and a couple of museums that will appeal to all ages. Highlights for families include A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center, the Adventure Outpost, and Alfred A. Ring Park.

Greensboro is a family-friendly city. Kids will love visiting the Greensboro Science Center, which has hands-on science exhibits and a small zoo. Younger kids will also enjoy a visit to the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum. During the summer months the Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park is a great way to spend a day. Other times of the year, there are indoor play spaces and movie theaters around town.

Is Gainesville or Greensboro Better for Couples?

Gainesville
Greensboro

Gainesville is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for couples.

Gainesville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wine tasting and fine dining or enjoying the city's many outdoor activities. Go on a picnic or explore one of the museums in Downtown Gainesville.

Greensboro is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The Carolina Theater makes a great date night activity. There is also a diverse selection of restaurants around town and a few parks for a daytime outing.

Is Gainesville or Greensboro Better for Students?

Gainesville
Greensboro

Gainesville is well known for students. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Gainesville. As the location of the University of Florida, you'll find many students around town. This keeps the energy high with plenty of evening activities and affordable entertainment options.

It's common for students to visit Greensboro. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.


Is Gainesville or Greensboro Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gainesville
Greensboro

Gainesville is a good destination for its public transit. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Gainesville, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system that's free to students and employees of the university.

Public transit is mostly limited in Greensboro. There are several bus routes around town, but you really can depend on them to get where you're going. A car is important for making the most of your trip.

Is Gainesville or Greensboro a more walkable city?

Gainesville
Greensboro

Gainesville is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Gainesville is a somewhat walkable place. Biking is actually a popular way to get around town and some areas are pedestrian-friendly.

Greensboro is generally not a very walkable city. Most areas aren't walkable, but for the most pedestrian-friendly sections head to College Hill, downtown, or Brice Street.

For even more information, also check out Is Gainesville Worth Visiting? and Is Greensboro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Greensboro or Gainesville?

How long in Gainesville or Greensboro?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Gainesville or Greensboro to fill your time. In our opinion, Gainesville has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Gainesville than Greensboro. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Gainesville than Greensboro. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Gainesville, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Gainesville than Greensboro. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Gainesville that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gainesville than Greensboro 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 Gainesville.


  • How many days in Gainesville or Greensboro? Ideal Length of Stay
    Gainesville 1-2 
    Greensboro 1-2

One day in Gainesville or Greensboro?

With museums and nightlife around the vibrant city of Gainesville, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Gainesville, one day is sufficent for most.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the under-rated city of Greensboro. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Gainesville or Greensboro?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Gainesville, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Greensboro. This city 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 Gainesville or Greensboro?

Gainesville, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The welcoming city of Greensboro offers museums and nightlife. 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 Gainesville or Greensboro?

Gainesville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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


Which place is cheaper, Greensboro or Gainesville?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Gainesville is $221, while the average daily cost in Greensboro is $162. 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 Gainesville and Greensboro in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Gainesville $119
    Greensboro $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Gainesville $238
    Greensboro $192
Compare Hotels in Gainesville and Greensboro

Looking for a hotel in Gainesville or Greensboro? 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 Gainesville


Hotels in Greensboro


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: Gainesville Hotel Prices and Greensboro Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Gainesville $40
    Greensboro $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Gainesville or Greensboro?

Prices for flights to both Greensboro and Gainesville 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
    Gainesville $70
    Greensboro $48
Typical Food Prices in Gainesville

Some typical examples of dining costs in Gainesville are as follows:


  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $17
  • Lunch at Chop Stix (for 2)
    $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Gainesville $44
    Greensboro $26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Gainesville

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Gainesville are as follows:


  • Manatee Tour for Two
    $98
  • Tour Guide Tip
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Gainesville

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Gainesville are as follows:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Gainesville by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Butterfly Rainforest at Florida Museum of Natural History Ticket: $15
  • Private Snorkeling Tour in Florida Springs: $250

Tours and Activities in Greensboro

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

  • True Crime Tour: $16
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $16
  • African American History Walking Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Gainesville $49
    Greensboro $20


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

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


Which is Bigger, Gainesville or Greensboro?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 84% larger than the population of Gainesville. When comparing the sizes of Gainesville and Greensboro, 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 Gainesville or Greensboro?

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 Gainesville or Greensboro in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Gainesville and Greensboro. Many travelers come to Gainesville for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Greensboro in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Gainesville is around the same temperature as Greensboro. Typically, the summer temperatures in Gainesville in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Greensboro averages at about 81°F (27°C).

Greensboro receives a lot of rain in the summer. Gainesville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Gainesville usually receives more rain than Greensboro. Gainesville gets 6.8 inches (174 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Gainesville 81°F (27°C) 
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Gainesville or Greensboro in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Gainesville as well as Greensboro. Many visitors come to Gainesville in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Greensboro for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Gainesville is generally a little warmer than Greensboro. Daily temperatures in Gainesville average around 71°F (22°C), and Greensboro fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Gainesville usually gets less rain in October than Greensboro. Gainesville gets 2 inches (51 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Gainesville is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Gainesville 71°F (22°C) 
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Gainesville or Greensboro in the Winter?

Both Greensboro and Gainesville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Gainesville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Greensboro because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Greensboro can be very cold. Gainesville is much warmer than Greensboro in the winter. The daily temperature in Gainesville averages around 54°F (12°C) in January, and Greensboro fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In January, Gainesville usually receives less rain than Greensboro. Gainesville gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Gainesville 54°F (12°C) 
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Gainesville or Greensboro in the Spring?

Both Greensboro and Gainesville during the spring are popular places to visit.

In the spring, Gainesville is a little warmer than Greensboro. Typically, the spring temperatures in Gainesville in April average around 69°F (20°C), and Greensboro averages at about 61°F (16°C).

Gainesville usually gets less rain in April than Greensboro. Gainesville gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Gainesville is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Gainesville 69°F (20°C) 
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Greensboro and Gainesville

Gainesville Greensboro
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 54°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Feb 57°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Apr 69°F (20°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6.8 inches (174 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 6.8 inches (174 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 5.5 inches (139 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Dec 56°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)