A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Greensboro for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Saint Simons or Greensboro?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Saint Simons or Greensboro? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and food.

Greensboro

Greensboro is a under-rated, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Saint Simons and Greensboro: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Greensboro?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Greensboro are popular destinations, Saint Simons has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Simons is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Greensboro attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Saint Simons is more touristy than Greensboro and is known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also well known for East Beach. Greensboro is famous for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Saint Simons different from Greensboro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Greensboro?

Saint Simons
Greensboro

Greensboro is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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 Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.


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

Saint Simons
Greensboro

Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

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 Saint Simons or Greensboro Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Greensboro

Greensboro is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Greensboro Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Greensboro

Saint Simons is a good destination for its resorts. However, Greensboro is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Greensboro is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Simons or Greensboro Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Greensboro

Saint Simons is well known for the beache. However, Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Saint Simons for it's beautiful beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Greensboro Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Greensboro

Saint Simons is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons offers some nice hiking trails. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Greensboro?

Saint Simons
Greensboro

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

Saint Simons is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

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 Saint Simons or Greensboro Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Greensboro

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

Saint Simons is a very kid-friendly island. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

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 Saint Simons or Greensboro Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Greensboro

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

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

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 Saint Simons or Greensboro Better for Students?

Saint Simons
Greensboro

Greensboro is a popular place for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with 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.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.


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

Saint Simons
Greensboro

Greensboro is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Greensboro a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Greensboro

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

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Greensboro is generally not a very walkable island. 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 Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Greensboro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Greensboro or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Greensboro?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saint Simons or Greensboro to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Saint Simons than Greensboro because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 1-2 days is enough time in Greensboro.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons.


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

One day in Saint Simons or Greensboro?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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.


A weekend in Saint Simons or Greensboro?

Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

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.

Five days in Saint Simons or Greensboro?

Saint Simons, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the under-rated 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.

A week in Saint Simons or Greensboro?

Saint Simons 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Greensboro or Saint Simons?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $176, while the average daily cost in Greensboro is $162. 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 Saint Simons and Greensboro in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Greensboro $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Greensboro $192
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Greensboro

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Greensboro? 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 Saint Simons


Hotels in Greensboro


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Greensboro Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Greensboro $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Greensboro?

Prices for flights to both Greensboro and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $48
    Greensboro $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Greensboro $26

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
    Saint Simons $60
    Greensboro $20


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


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Greensboro?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Greensboro, 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 Saint Simons or Greensboro?

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 Saint Simons or Greensboro in the Summer?

Both Greensboro and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Greensboro because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Greensboro. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Simons in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Greensboro averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Greensboro. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Greensboro during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Greensboro receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. It's quite rainy in Saint Simons. In July, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Greensboro. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Greensboro in the Autumn?

Both Greensboro and Saint Simons during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Greensboro this time of year.

In October, Saint Simons is generally a little warmer than Greensboro. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 70°F (21°C), and Greensboro fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Greensboro, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the autumn, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Greensboro. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Greensboro receives 212 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Greensboro. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Greensboro in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Greensboro. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Greensboro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Greensboro. Saint Simons is much warmer than Greensboro in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Greensboro fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Greensboro during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Greensboro receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of rain as Greensboro. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Greensboro in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Greensboro. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Greensboro. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Simons in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Greensboro averages at about 61°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Greensboro. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Greensboro receives 248 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets less rain in April than Greensboro. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Greensboro and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Greensboro
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)