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

Should you visit Washington or Greensboro?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Greensboro can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Greensboro

Greensboro is a under-rated, friendly, and welcoming city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Washington and Greensboro: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Washington or Greensboro?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington than Greensboro. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Washington is more touristy than Greensboro and is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House. Greensboro is famous for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Washington different from Greensboro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Washington or Greensboro?

Washington
Greensboro

Washington 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 Washington are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Washington or Greensboro Better for Theater?

Washington
Greensboro

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

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Greensboro is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington
Greensboro

Washington is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington or Greensboro Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Greensboro

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

Washington is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington or Greensboro Better for Music?

Washington
Greensboro

Washington 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 Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Greensboro is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Greensboro Better for Hiking?

Washington
Greensboro

Washington is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Greensboro?

Washington
Greensboro

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

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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 Washington or Greensboro Better for Christmas?

Washington
Greensboro

Washington is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Greensboro does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Washington is not to be missed. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Greensboro does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Greensboro Better for Families?

Washington
Greensboro

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

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

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 Washington or Greensboro Better for Couples?

Washington
Greensboro

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

Couples visit Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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 Washington or Greensboro Better for Students?

Washington
Greensboro

Washington is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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

Washington
Greensboro

Washington is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Washington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington or Greensboro a more walkable city?

Washington
Greensboro

Washington 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 Washington on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Greensboro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Greensboro or Washington?

How long in Washington or Greensboro?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Washington or Greensboro to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Washington than Greensboro because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 1-2 days is enough time in Greensboro.

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

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

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


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

One day in Washington or Greensboro?

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

With museums and nightlife around the under-rated city of Greensboro, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Greensboro, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Greensboro?

When visiting Washington, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Greensboro, there's plenty to do. 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 Washington or Greensboro?

Washington, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Greensboro, 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 Washington or Greensboro?

Washington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Greensboro 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Greensboro or Washington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $198, 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 Washington and Greensboro in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $113
    Greensboro $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $226
    Greensboro $192
Compare Hotels in Washington and Greensboro

Looking for a hotel in Washington 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 Washington


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: Washington Hotel Prices and Greensboro Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $47
    Greensboro $24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer: National Airport DCA to Washington in Business Car: $140
  • Arrival Transfer Dulles Airport IAD to Washington DC by Sedan: $106
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Baltimore Airport BWI in Luxury SUV: $187
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Baltimore Airport BWI in Luxury Van: $187
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Business Car: $127
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Luxury SUV: $157
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to National Airport DCA in Business Car: $140
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to National Airport DCA in Luxury Car: $184
  • Luxury Airport Transfer DCA to/from Washington DC: $120
  • Private Airport Transfer: Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Business Car: $127
  • Private Departure Transfer to Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Private Departure Transfer to Washington Dulles Airport IAD: $144

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Greensboro?

Prices for flights to both Greensboro and Washington 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
    Washington $38
    Greensboro $48
Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $60
  • Little Ethiopia Food Tour: $67
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • DC: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $74
  • Dupont Circle Food Tour: $80
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $96
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $150
  • Washington DC Christmas Eve Plated Dinner Cruise: $206

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

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • The Kennedy Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • DC's Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington D.C.’s Tidal Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington, DC: Lincoln Assassination Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Kennedy Homes of Georgetown: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Scandals & Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington DC: National Mall Self Guided App Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Lincoln Memorial to the Cap Hill D.C. Smart Phone App/GPS Tour: $6.75
  • Washington DC Outdoor Escape Game Tour: FBI vs. Bank Robbers: $7.06
  • The National Mall: Walking In App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Washington, DC: National Air and Space Museum Audio Tour: $9.00
  • D.C: White House Museum & President's Park Audio Tour (EN): $9.00

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $19
    Greensboro $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures: $35
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • From Washington DC: Seneca Creek Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255


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


Which is Bigger, Washington or Greensboro?

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

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 Washington or Greensboro in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Washington is around the same temperature as Greensboro. Typically, the summer temperatures in Washington in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Greensboro averages at about 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the summer, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Greensboro. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Greensboro receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Greensboro. Washington usually gets less rain in July than Greensboro. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Washington 79°F (26°C) 
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Washington or Greensboro in the Autumn?

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

In October, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Greensboro. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 60°F (15°C), and Greensboro fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Greensboro. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Greensboro during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Greensboro receives 212 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Greensboro. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Washington 60°F (15°C) 
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Washington or Greensboro in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Greensboro in the winter. The weather in Washington can be very cold. Washington is much colder than Greensboro in the winter. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Greensboro fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets less sunshine than Greensboro. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Greensboro receives 169 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets less rain in January than Greensboro. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Washington 35°F (1°C) 
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Washington or Greensboro in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Greensboro. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

In the spring, Washington is cooler than Greensboro. Typically, the spring temperatures in Washington in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Greensboro averages at about 61°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Greensboro this time of the year. In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Greensboro during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Greensboro receives 248 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Washington usually receives less rain than Greensboro. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Washington 56°F (14°C) 
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Greensboro and Washington

Washington Greensboro
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)