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

Should you visit Greensboro or Portland?

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 Portland. 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. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a nature-filled, scenic, and laid-back city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Greensboro and Portland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Greensboro or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portland than Greensboro. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Portland is very popular for its music, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Greensboro attracts visitors for its museums. Portland is more touristy than Greensboro and is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. It is also well known for Washington Park. Greensboro is famous for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Greensboro different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Greensboro
Portland

Greensboro is a city with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.


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

Greensboro
Portland

Both Greensboro and Portland offer a number of reasonable restaurants to choose from.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Greensboro. You'll find a good selection of restaurants around town with Mexican, southern, Italian, and Chinese all being popular options.

Portland may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Greensboro or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Greensboro
Portland

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

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 Portland has a few options to choose from. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Greensboro or Portland Better for Music?

Greensboro
Portland

Portland is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Greensboro is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Greensboro is not a live music destination.


Is Greensboro or Portland Better for Hiking?

Greensboro
Portland

Portland is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Greensboro or Portland?

Greensboro
Portland

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland and Greensboro.

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

Portland has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Greensboro or Portland Better for Families?

Greensboro
Portland

Both Greensboro and Portland are nice family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Greensboro. 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.

Portland offers lots of family activities. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.


Is Greensboro or Portland Better for Couples?

Greensboro
Portland

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

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

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 Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Greensboro
Portland

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

Portland is a great city to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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 Portland Better for Students?

Greensboro
Portland

Greensboro and Portland are nice places to visit for students.

Greensboro is popular with students. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.

It's common for students to visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.


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

Greensboro
Portland

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

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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 Portland a more walkable city?

Greensboro
Portland

Portland is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Greensboro?

How long in Greensboro or Portland?

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

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

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


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

One day in Greensboro or Portland?

The city of Greensboro offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With shopping and nightlife around the quirky city of Portland, 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 Portland?

Greensboro is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Greensboro, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Portland, 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 city.

Five days in Greensboro or Portland?

Greensboro is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland, a popular city, 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 Portland?

Greensboro is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Portland 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, Portland 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 Portland is $180. 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 Portland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Greensboro $96
    Portland $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Greensboro $192
    Portland $194
Compare Hotels in Greensboro and Portland

Looking for a hotel in Greensboro or Portland? 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 Portland


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 Portland Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

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

  • Lake Oswego to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $70
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Arrival Private Transfer: $70
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $141
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $75
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $150
  • Portland Airport to The Summit at Snoqualmie Arrival Transfer: $184
  • Portland downtown to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $61
  • Private Transfer from Portland Airport (PDX) to Astoria Port: $87
  • Tigard hotel or address to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $75
  • Waterfall Express -PDX: Waterfall Trolley Tickets + Transfer: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Greensboro or Portland?

Prices for flights to both Portland 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
    Portland $43

Typical Food Prices in Portland

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


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

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

  • Portland Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Walking Pizza Tour: $75
  • Secret Food Tour with Local Guide: $93
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Downtown Food Tour: $102
  • The Vibrant Kerns Hood Food Tour: $105
  • The Bustling Buckman Hood Food Tour: $105
  • Portland Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $109
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $110
  • All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour: $119
  • All-Inclusive Walking Food Tour: $119
  • 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise on Willamette River: $127

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Greensboro $26
    Portland $24

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 Portland

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

  • Self Guided Solo "Weird and Wonderful Portland" Walking Tour in Old Town : $6.50
  • Smartphone Old Port Portland, ME Audio Walking Tour APP/GPS: $6.75
  • Portland, Maine: Walking Tour Audio Guide: $8.49
  • Downtown Portland In-App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Smartphone Audio Guide: $10
  • Waterfront Scavenger Hunt Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Downtown Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Walking Tour: $13
  • Portland (Along the Waterfront) Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Portland Exploration: Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $14
  • Self-Guided Sightseeing Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Portland Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Portland: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Greensboro $20
    Portland $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings: $40
  • Portland Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Weird Bar Crawl with Fanatical Local: $59
  • Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits: $65
  • Portland, Maine: Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $89
  • Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included): $135
  • Silver Falls Hike and Wine Tour: $179
  • Willamette Valley Wine Tasting from Portland: $189
  • From Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour: $210
  • Multnomah Falls, Hood River Excursion Train Ride & Wine Tour: $210
  • Willamette Valley Wine Tour - Full Day Tour: $225


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


Which is Bigger, Greensboro or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Greensboro. When comparing the sizes of Greensboro and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Greensboro as well as Portland. Most visitors come to Greensboro for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Greensboro this time of the year. In the summer, Greensboro often gets less sunshine than Portland. Greensboro gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Greensboro receives a lot of rain in the summer. Greensboro usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Greensboro gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C) 
    Portland 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Greensboro are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Greensboro because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. Greensboro usually receives more sunshine than Portland during autumn. Greensboro gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Greensboro usually receives more rain than Portland. Greensboro gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C) 
    Portland 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Greensboro during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Greensboro this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. It's quite cold in Greensboro in the winter. In the winter, Greensboro is around the same temperature as Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Greensboro in January average around 40°F (4°C), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Greensboro often gets more sunshine than Portland. Greensboro gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Greensboro usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Greensboro gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C) 
    Portland 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Greensboro and Portland. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Greensboro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Greensboro usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland during spring. Greensboro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Greensboro usually receives more rain than Portland. Greensboro gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C) 
    Portland 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Portland and Greensboro

Greensboro Portland
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)