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

Should you visit Greensboro or Ketchikan?

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 Ketchikan. 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. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Greensboro travel costs.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a scenic, quaint, and local town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Greensboro and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Greensboro or Ketchikan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ketchikan. Although Greensboro and Ketchikan are popular destinations, Ketchikan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ketchikan is very popular for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Greensboro attracts visitors for its nightlife. Ketchikan is more touristy than Greensboro and is known for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also well known for the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Greensboro is famous for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Greensboro different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Greensboro
Ketchikan

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Greensboro and Ketchikan.

Greensboro offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Greensboro Science Center is a highlight for families. Other interesting museums around town include the Elsewhere Modern Art Museum, the Greensboro History Museum, the International Civil Rights Center, and the Weatherspoon Art Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ketchikan. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.


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

Greensboro
Ketchikan

Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

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 Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Greensboro
Ketchikan

Greensboro is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Greensboro. Head downtown for the most trendy bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Is Greensboro or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Greensboro
Ketchikan

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

Ketchikan is well-known for its hiking and trekking. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

Greensboro is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Greensboro or Ketchikan?

Greensboro
Ketchikan

Shopping is a popular activity in both Ketchikan and Greensboro.

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

Ketchikan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Is Greensboro or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Greensboro
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Greensboro is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

Greensboro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Greensboro or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Greensboro
Ketchikan

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

Ketchikan is a very kid-friendly town. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

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 Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Greensboro
Ketchikan

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

Couples visit Ketchikan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

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 Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Greensboro
Ketchikan

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

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 Ketchikan Better for Students?

Greensboro
Ketchikan

Greensboro is very good for students. However, Ketchikan is not popular with students.

Greensboro is a good city to visit for students. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.

Ketchikan is not popular with students.


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

Greensboro
Ketchikan

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

Public transit is generally limited in Greensboro. There are several bus routes around town, but you really can depend on them to get where you're going. A car is important for making the most of your trip.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

Is Greensboro or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Greensboro
Ketchikan

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

Ketchikan is a very walkable town. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

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 Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Greensboro?

How long in Greensboro or Ketchikan?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Greensboro or Ketchikan?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Greensboro. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Greensboro has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and food around the local town of Ketchikan, 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ketchikan, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Greensboro or Ketchikan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Greensboro. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and shopping around the destination of Ketchikan, 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 town.

Five days in Greensboro or Ketchikan?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the welcoming city of Greensboro. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ketchikan, a popular town, 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 Ketchikan?

Greensboro is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Ketchikan 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Ketchikan or Greensboro?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Greensboro Prices
    USA Prices
    Ketchikan Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Greensboro $197
    Ketchikan $259

The average daily cost (per person) in Greensboro is $197, while the average daily cost in Ketchikan is $259. 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 Ketchikan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Greensboro $96
    Ketchikan $136
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Greensboro $192
    Ketchikan $272
Compare Hotels in Greensboro and Ketchikan

Looking for a hotel in Greensboro or Ketchikan? 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 Ketchikan


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Greensboro $24
    Ketchikan $39

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Bus Ride
    $1.00

Is it cheaper to fly into Greensboro or Ketchikan?

Prices for flights to both Ketchikan 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 $82
    Ketchikan $92

Typical Food Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of dining costs in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Slice of Pie & Drink
    $5.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Greensboro $26
    Ketchikan $46

Typical Entertainment Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Ticket to Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
    $35
  • Duck Tour (one person)
    $38
  • Bear Viewing Tour
    $83

Tours and Activities in Ketchikan

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ketchikan are as follows:

  • Ghost Walk Guided Tour: $35
  • City Highlights Totem Parks and Sightseeing: $59
  • Beautiful Totem Bight State Park and Rainforest Walking Tour: $75
  • Ketchikan Duck Tour: $75
  • Ketchikan, Alaska Native Cultural and Wildlife Adventure: $80
  • Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour: $85
  • From Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour: $85
  • 2.5 Hour Tour in Ketchikan on the Tongass Trolley: $85
  • Clarke's Custom Island Tour (up to 11 guests): $90
  • Wild Wolf Tour - 2 Hr: $92
  • 2 Hour Alaska Rainforest Walk and Totem Park Small Group Tour: $95
  • 2 Hour Custom Wildlife and Historical Tour: $100

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Greensboro $20
    Ketchikan $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Ketchikan

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ketchikan:

  • Distillery Tour and Signature Bottle Infusion Experience: $149
  • Distillery Tour with Infusion Class: $161


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


Which is Bigger, Greensboro or Ketchikan?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Greensboro and Ketchikan, 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 Ketchikan?

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 Greensboro or Ketchikan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Greensboro and Ketchikan. Many travelers come to Greensboro for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Greensboro is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Greensboro average around 81°F (27°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Greensboro gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Greensboro usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Greensboro gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C) 
    Ketchikan 58°F (15°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Greensboro as well as Ketchikan. Many visitors come to Greensboro in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Greensboro is much warmer than Ketchikan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Greensboro averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Greensboro usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. Greensboro gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C) 
    Ketchikan 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Ketchikan in the Winter?

Both Ketchikan and Greensboro are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Greensboro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ketchikan can be very cold. Greensboro can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Greensboro is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Greensboro in January average around 40°F (4°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 34°F (1°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In January, Greensboro usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Greensboro gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C) 
    Ketchikan 34°F (1°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Ketchikan in the Spring?

Both Ketchikan and Greensboro during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

In April, Greensboro is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Greensboro average around 61°F (16°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Greensboro usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. Greensboro gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C) 
    Ketchikan 44°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Greensboro

Greensboro Ketchikan
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 34°F (1°C) 14.9 inches (379 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 38°F (3°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 39°F (4°C) 10.6 inches (270 mm)
Apr 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 44°F (6°C) 11.3 inches (286 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 49°F (9°C) 9.3 inches (237 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 54°F (12°C) 8.2 inches (209 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 58°F (15°C) 7.6 inches (193 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 59°F (15°C) 11.1 inches (281 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 54°F (12°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 46°F (8°C) 22.9 inches (581 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 40°F (4°C) 17.3 inches (441 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 36°F (2°C) 15.7 inches (398 mm)