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

Should you visit Greensboro or Hilo?

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 Hilo. 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.

Hilo

Hilo is a mellow, friendly, and authentic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Greensboro and Hilo: 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 museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Greensboro or Hilo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hilo. Although Greensboro and Hilo are both popular with visitors, Hilo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hilo is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Greensboro is known for its nightlife and shopping. Hilo is more touristy than Greensboro and is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. It is also home to Akaka Falls State Park. Greensboro is popular for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Greensboro different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo 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 Hilo?

Greensboro
Hilo

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Greensboro and Hilo.

Greensboro offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hilo. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.


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

Greensboro
Hilo

Hilo 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 Hilo. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Greensboro
Hilo

Greensboro is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Greensboro or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Greensboro
Hilo

Hilo is a town with a few options for its resorts. However, Greensboro is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Hilo offers a few options. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Greensboro is not a resort destination.


Is Greensboro or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Greensboro
Hilo

Hilo is a town with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Greensboro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hilo has a few snorkeling spots. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Greensboro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Greensboro or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Greensboro
Hilo

Hilo is a good destination for the beache. However, Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Hilo offers a nice beach destination. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Is Greensboro or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Greensboro
Hilo

Hilo is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

Hilo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Greensboro is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Greensboro or Hilo?

Greensboro
Hilo

Greensboro is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for 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.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Greensboro or Hilo Better for Families?

Greensboro
Hilo

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

Hilo is a very kid-friendly town. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

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 Hilo Better for Couples?

Greensboro
Hilo

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

Couples visit Hilo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

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 Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Greensboro
Hilo

Hilo is well known for backpackers. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hilo is a great town to visit for backpackers. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo Better for Students?

Greensboro
Hilo

Greensboro is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo 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.

Hilo is not popular with students.

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

Greensboro
Hilo

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Greensboro and Hilo.

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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.


Is Greensboro or Hilo a more walkable city?

Greensboro
Hilo

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

Hilo is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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 Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Greensboro?

How long in Greensboro or Hilo?

Both Greensboro and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Greensboro. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Greensboro, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Greensboro or Hilo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Greensboro 1-2 
    Hilo 3-7

One day in Greensboro or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Greensboro. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With museums and food around the friendly town of Hilo, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 Hilo?

Greensboro is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With food and museums around the destination of Hilo, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Greensboro or Hilo?

You'll find shopping and museums around the under-rated destination of Greensboro. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hilo, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Greensboro or Hilo?

The under-rated city of Greensboro offers museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Hilo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. 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, Hilo 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 Hilo is $171. 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 Hilo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Greensboro $96
    Hilo $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Greensboro $192
    Hilo $142
Compare Hotels in Greensboro and Hilo

Looking for a hotel in Greensboro or Hilo? 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 Hilo


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 Hilo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Greensboro $24
    Hilo $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hilo

Also for Hilo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Transfer: Kona International Airport (KOA) to Hotels - Big Island: $15
  • Departure Transfer from Hotels to Kona International Airport: $15
  • Kailua-Kona to Kona Airport at Keahole Private Departure Transfer: $58
  • Kona International Airport (KOA) to Kailua-Kona - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $116
  • Kona Intl Airport (KOA) to Waikoloa beach hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $151
  • Kona Intl. Airport (KOA) to Waikoloa beach hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $75
  • Luxury Private Airport Transfer : $75
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Kona International Airport to Big Island Hotels: $169
  • Private Departure Transfer: Big Island Hotels to Kona International Airport: $169
  • Private Transfer From Hotels in Kailua-Kona to Kona International Airport: $70
  • Private Transfer From Hotels in Waikoloa & Waimea to Kona International Airport: $85
  • Private Transfer From Kona International Airport to Hotels in Kailua-Kona: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Greensboro or Hilo?

Prices for flights to both Hilo 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
    Hilo $70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hilo

For Hilo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Farm to Table Cooking Class at Kulaniapia Falls: $169
  • French Hawaiian Fusion Cooking Class: $175
  • Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay: $183
  • Farm-to-Table Chef's Dinner at Kulaniapia Falls: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Greensboro $26
    Hilo $32

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 Hilo

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

  • Baumkuchen Farm Tour: $5.00
  • History and Legends Walking Tour with a Smartphone App: $6.50
  • Big Island - Kohala Coast & Backcountry Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Big Island Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Big Island - North Island Jungle Driving Tour: $20
  • Big Island - South Island Coastal Loop Driving Tour: $20
  • Big Island - Kona Big Kahuna GPS Driving Tour: $20
  • Hawaiian Rainforest Banana Cultivation Experience: $20
  • Abalone Farm Tour: $25
  • Big Island Farms Tour in Hawaii: $30
  • Experience Our Honey Farm And Beekeeping Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Greensboro $20
    Hilo $10


When comparing the travel costs between Greensboro and Hilo, we can see that Hilo 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 Hilo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Greensboro or Hilo?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Hilo. When comparing the sizes of Greensboro and Hilo, 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 Hilo?

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 Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Greensboro during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Greensboro this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Greensboro is a little warmer than Hilo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Greensboro in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Greensboro. In the summer, Greensboro often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Greensboro gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. Greensboro usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Greensboro gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C) 
    Hilo 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Greensboro and Hilo. Many travelers come to Greensboro for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hilo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Greensboro is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Greensboro average around 62°F (17°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Greensboro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Greensboro usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during autumn. Greensboro gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Greensboro usually receives less rain than Hilo. Greensboro gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C) 
    Hilo 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Greensboro as well as Hilo. Many visitors come to Greensboro in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Greensboro can get quite cold in the winter. Greensboro is much colder than Hilo in the winter. The daily temperature in Greensboro averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Greensboro often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo. Greensboro gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Greensboro usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Greensboro gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C) 
    Hilo 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and Greensboro are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Greensboro is cooler than Hilo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Greensboro in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Hilo averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. Greensboro usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Greensboro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In April, Greensboro usually receives less rain than Hilo. Greensboro gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C) 
    Hilo 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Hilo and Greensboro

Greensboro Hilo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm)
Apr 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm)