A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Greensboro vs. Columbia River Gorge for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Columbia River Gorge. 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 under-rated, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a natural, beautiful, and scenic region. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Greensboro and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Columbia River Gorge. Although Greensboro and Columbia River Gorge are popular destinations, Columbia River Gorge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Columbia River Gorge is very popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Greensboro attracts visitors for its museums. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Greensboro and is known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. It is also well known for Vista House at Crown Point. Greensboro is famous for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Greensboro different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge?

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

Greensboro is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

Greensboro is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.


Is the Food Better in Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

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 Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Greensboro and Columbia River Gorge.

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 Columbia River Gorge has a few options to choose from. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Greensboro is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge?

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

Shopping is a popular activity in both Columbia River Gorge and Greensboro.

Greensboro offers some nice shopping areas. There are shopping centers and shopping malls around town as well as some interesting local boutiques.

Columbia River Gorge has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Is Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Columbia River Gorge is a very kid-friendly region. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

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.

Is Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its romantic activities. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Columbia River Gorge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

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 Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is well known for backpackers. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Columbia River Gorge is a great region to visit for backpackers. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

Greensboro is a nice place to visit for students. However, Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

Greensboro is a good city to visit for students. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Greensboro and Columbia River Gorge.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.


Is Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Greensboro
Columbia River Gorge

Greensboro is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

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

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable city. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

For even more information, also check out Is Greensboro Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Greensboro?

How long in Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge.


  • How many days in Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Greensboro 1-2 
    Columbia River Gorge 2-3

One day in Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Greensboro. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Greensboro has to offer.

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic region of Columbia River Gorge, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge?

Greensboro is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Columbia River Gorge, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 region.


Five days in Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Greensboro for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Greensboro. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Columbia River Gorge, a popular region, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Columbia River Gorge?

The under-rated destination of Greensboro offers nightlife and shopping. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Columbia River Gorge 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, Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge is $179. 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 Columbia River Gorge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Greensboro $96
    Columbia River Gorge $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Greensboro $192
    Columbia River Gorge $178
Compare Hotels in Greensboro and Columbia River Gorge

Looking for a hotel in Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge? 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 Columbia River Gorge


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Greensboro $24
    Columbia River Gorge $78

Is it cheaper to fly into Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge?

Prices for flights to both Columbia River Gorge 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
    Columbia River Gorge $46

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Greensboro $26
    Columbia River Gorge $20

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
    Greensboro $20
    Columbia River Gorge $12


When comparing the travel costs between Greensboro and Columbia River Gorge, we can see that Columbia River Gorge is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Greensboro and Columbia River Gorge, 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 Columbia River Gorge?

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 Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Greensboro and Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors come to Greensboro in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Greensboro is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Greensboro average around 81°F (27°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia River Gorge this time of the year. In Greensboro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Greensboro usually receives less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during summer. Greensboro gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Greensboro gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Greensboro usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Greensboro gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Greensboro as well as Columbia River Gorge. Most visitors come to Greensboro for the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Greensboro is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the autumn. The daily temperature in Greensboro averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Greensboro this time of the year. In the autumn, Greensboro often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Greensboro gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Greensboro usually gets more rain in October than Columbia River Gorge. Greensboro gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Greensboro are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Greensboro because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

It's quite cold in Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The weather in Greensboro can be very cold. In the winter, Greensboro is around the same temperature as Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the winter temperatures in Greensboro in January average around 40°F (4°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Greensboro usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Greensboro gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. In January, Greensboro usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Greensboro gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Greensboro during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the natural beauty.

In April, Greensboro is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Greensboro average around 61°F (16°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Greensboro. In the spring, Greensboro often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia River Gorge. Greensboro gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Greensboro usually gets more rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Greensboro gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Greensboro

Greensboro Columbia River Gorge
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)