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

Should you visit Greensboro or Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia. 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 friendly, welcoming, and under-rated city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a historic, cultural, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Greensboro and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Greensboro or Philadelphia?

You'll generally find more things to do in Philadelphia than Greensboro. Philadelphia is bigger than Greensboro, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is more touristy than Greensboro and is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. Also, Philadelphia is famous for The Liberty Bell. Greensboro is well known for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Greensboro different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Greensboro
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Philadelphia are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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 Greensboro or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is well known for its theatre productions. However, Greensboro is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Greensboro is not a theatre destination.

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

Greensboro
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Greensboro or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is well known for its live music scene. However, Greensboro is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Greensboro is not a live music destination.

Is Greensboro or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a good destination for its old town. However, Greensboro does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Philadelphia to see the old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Greensboro does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Greensboro or Philadelphia?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Greensboro does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Philadelphia. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Greensboro does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Greensboro or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a good destination for its Christmas markets. However, Greensboro does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Greensboro does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Greensboro or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

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 Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

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 Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

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 Philadelphia Better for Students?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

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

Many students visit Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international 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.


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

Greensboro
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia has some very good public transit options. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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 Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Greensboro
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia on foot is easy. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Greensboro?

How long in Greensboro or Philadelphia?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Greensboro or Philadelphia?

In Greensboro, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

When visiting Philadelphia, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Greensboro or Philadelphia?

Greensboro is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

When visiting Philadelphia, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Greensboro or Philadelphia?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the welcoming destination of Greensboro. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Philadelphia, 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.

A week in Greensboro or Philadelphia?

Greensboro is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Philadelphia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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, Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia is $188. 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 Philadelphia in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Greensboro or Philadelphia? 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 Philadelphia


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 Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Greensboro $24
    Philadelphia $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $352
  • Philadelphia City to New York City - Private Car Transfer: $188
  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Greensboro or Philadelphia?

Prices for flights to both Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $49

Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $58
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour-Small Group Walking Tour: $59
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $83
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90
  • Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Greensboro $26
    Philadelphia $28

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $8.99
  • Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Philadelphia In App Walking Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Allentown: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $12
  • National Liberty Museum Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Fantastic Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Penn Museum Admission Ticket: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Greensboro $20
    Philadelphia $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Greensboro and Philadelphia, we can see that Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Philadelphia 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 Greensboro Expensive? and Is Philadelphia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Greensboro or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Greensboro. When comparing the sizes of Greensboro and Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Greensboro as well as Philadelphia. Many visitors come to Greensboro in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Greensboro is around the same temperature as Philadelphia in the summer. The daily temperature in Greensboro averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Greensboro this time of the year. In the summer, Greensboro often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia. Greensboro gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. Greensboro receives a lot of rain in the summer. Greensboro usually gets more rain in July than Philadelphia. Greensboro gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C) 
    Philadelphia 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

Both Philadelphia and Greensboro are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Greensboro for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Greensboro is a little warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Greensboro in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. Greensboro usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia during autumn. Greensboro gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Greensboro usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Greensboro gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C) 
    Philadelphia 56°F (14°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Philadelphia in the Winter?

Both Philadelphia and Greensboro during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Greensboro because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

It's quite cold in Philadelphia in the winter. The weather in Greensboro can be very cold. In January, Greensboro is generally much warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Greensboro average around 40°F (4°C), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Greensboro often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. Greensboro gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun.

Greensboro usually gets more rain in January than Philadelphia. Greensboro gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C) 
    Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Philadelphia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Greensboro and Philadelphia. Furthermore, many travelers come to Philadelphia for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Greensboro is a little warmer than Philadelphia in the spring. The daily temperature in Greensboro averages around 61°F (16°C) in April, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In Greensboro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Greensboro usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during spring. Greensboro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Greensboro usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Greensboro gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C) 
    Philadelphia 52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Greensboro

Greensboro Philadelphia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 42°F (6°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 76°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 56°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)