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

Should you visit Greensboro or Alexandria?

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 Greensboro and Alexandria. 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.

Greensboro

Greensboro is a welcoming, under-rated, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic, charming, and quaint city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Greensboro and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Greensboro or Alexandria?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Alexandria than Greensboro. While Greensboro is larger than Alexandria, Alexandria has more sights and attractions for tourists. Alexandria is more touristy than Greensboro and is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also home to Mount Vernon. Greensboro is popular for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Greensboro different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Greensboro
Alexandria

Alexandria 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 Alexandria. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

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 Greensboro or Alexandria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Greensboro
Alexandria

Alexandria 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 Alexandria. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

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 Greensboro or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

Greensboro
Alexandria

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Greensboro and Alexandria.

Greensboro has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for the most trendy bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

If you're looking for night time activities Alexandria has a few options to choose from. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is Greensboro or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Greensboro
Alexandria

Alexandria is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Greensboro does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Alexandria can be explored in its historical center. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Greensboro does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Greensboro or Alexandria?

Greensboro
Alexandria

Alexandria is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Alexandria is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Greensboro has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are shopping centers and shopping malls around town as well as some interesting local boutiques.

Is Greensboro or Alexandria Better for Families?

Greensboro
Alexandria

Greensboro is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Greensboro offers lots of family activities. 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.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Greensboro or Alexandria Better for Couples?

Greensboro
Alexandria

Alexandria is well known for its romantic activities. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Alexandria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

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 Greensboro or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Greensboro
Alexandria

Alexandria is a good destination for backpackers. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Greensboro is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a number of budget hotels nearby but no real hostels.

Is Greensboro or Alexandria Better for Students?

Greensboro
Alexandria

Greensboro is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not popular with students.

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.

Alexandria is not popular with students.

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

Greensboro
Alexandria

Alexandria is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Alexandria has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

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 Greensboro or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Greensboro
Alexandria

Alexandria is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Alexandria on foot is easy. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

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 Greensboro Worth Visiting? and Is Alexandria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or Greensboro?

How long in Greensboro or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either Greensboro or Alexandria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Alexandria due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Greensboro, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alexandria.

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

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


  • How many days in Greensboro or Alexandria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Greensboro 1-2 
    Alexandria 2-4

One day in Greensboro or Alexandria?

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

With museums and nightlife around the quaint city of Alexandria, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Greensboro or Alexandria?

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Greensboro, 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Alexandria, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Greensboro or Alexandria?

Greensboro, 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.

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

A week in Greensboro or Alexandria?

Greensboro 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.

Alexandria 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Alexandria or Greensboro?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Greensboro is $162, while the average daily cost in Alexandria is $0.00. 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 Greensboro and Alexandria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Greensboro $96
    Alexandria $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Greensboro $192
    Alexandria $76
Compare Hotels in Greensboro and Alexandria

Looking for a hotel in Greensboro or Alexandria? 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 Greensboro


Hotels in Alexandria


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: Greensboro Hotel Prices and Alexandria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Greensboro $24
    Alexandria -

Is it cheaper to fly into Greensboro or Alexandria?

Prices for flights to both Alexandria and Greensboro 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
    Greensboro $48
    Alexandria -

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Greensboro $26
    Alexandria -

Tours and Activities in Greensboro

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

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

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • Old Town Alexandria Tour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $26
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • A Walk in Washington's Footsteps History Tour: $32
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $38
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Private Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon: $165
  • Philadelphia Tour from Alexandria by Rail: $329

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Greensboro $20
    Alexandria -

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Alexandria:

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35


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

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


Which is Bigger, Greensboro or Alexandria?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 82% larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Greensboro and Alexandria, 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 Greensboro or Alexandria?

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 Greensboro or Alexandria in the Summer?

Both Alexandria and Greensboro during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Greensboro because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year.

In the summer, Greensboro is around the same temperature as Alexandria. Typically, the summer temperatures in Greensboro in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Alexandria averages at about 79°F (26°C).

In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Greensboro. In the summer, Greensboro often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria. Greensboro gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. Greensboro usually gets more rain in July than Alexandria. Greensboro gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C) 
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Alexandria in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Greensboro and Alexandria. The shopping scene are the main draw to Greensboro this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Greensboro is generally around the same temperature as Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Greensboro average around 62°F (17°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In Greensboro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Greensboro usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria during autumn. Greensboro gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Greensboro usually receives around the same amount of rain as Alexandria. Greensboro gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C) 
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Alexandria in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Greensboro as well as Alexandria. Many travelers come to Greensboro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Alexandria in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Alexandria can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Greensboro. Greensboro is much warmer than Alexandria in the winter. The daily temperature in Greensboro averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Alexandria fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Greensboro often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Greensboro gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun.

Greensboro usually gets more rain in January than Alexandria. Greensboro gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C) 
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Alexandria in the Spring?

Both Alexandria and Greensboro are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Greensboro is a little warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the spring temperatures in Greensboro in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Alexandria averages at about 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Alexandria. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. Greensboro usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during spring. Greensboro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Greensboro usually receives more rain than Alexandria. Greensboro gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C) 
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Greensboro

Greensboro Alexandria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)