A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Greenville vs. Columbia River Gorge for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Greenville and Columbia River Gorge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Greenville

Greenville is a southern, welcoming, and hospitable city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Greenville travel costs.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful, scenic, and natural region. With stunning beauty, Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Greenville and Columbia River Gorge: 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
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Columbia River Gorge than Greenville, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Columbia River Gorge is better known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Greenville is more popular for its museums and attractions. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Greenville and is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. Also, Columbia River Gorge is famous for Vista House at Crown Point. Greenville is well known for its outdoor spaces and its growing arts scene.

How is Greenville different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

Greenville is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

Greenville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums focus on art, history, and science. Notable museums in town include the Greenville County Museum of Art, the Upcountry History Museum, and the Sigal Music Museum.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.


Is the Food Better in Greenville or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Greenville is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Columbia River Gorge has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Greenville offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The food scene is growing and the farm-to-table movement is apparent here, but the city is still often overlooked by foodies in the area.

Is Greenville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Greenville and Columbia River Gorge.

If you're looking for night time activities Greenville has a few options to choose from. Bars, breweries, and low key clubs are what drive the city's nightlife scene. There are both piano bars and live music venues that often lean towards the local country classics.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Greenville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for hiking. However, Greenville is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Greenville is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

If you're looking to go shopping, Greenville and Columbia River Gorge both offer plenty of notable spots.

Greenville has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find upscale shopping in the city's downtown and sprawling shopping malls in other neighborhoods. There are plenty of name brand stores where you can pick up the latest style.

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for shopping. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Is Greenville or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for its scenery and beauty. However, Greenville is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors from all around. Impressive waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas make this a truly beautiful place to visit.

Greenville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Greenville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Greenville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Columbia River Gorge. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

Greenville is a family-friendly place to visit. There are many local families in town, so you'll find all kinds of kid-friendly activities to enjoy. Paris Mountain State Park is a popular place where everyone can run around. Falls Park on the Reedy River also has walking trails and is in the city's historic district. There's also a children's theater and plenty of playgrounds around town.


Is Greenville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for couples. However, Greenville is not known for romance.

Columbia River Gorge is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Greenville is not the best destination for a couple to visit. You can take the free trolley down Main Street and then enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.

Is Greenville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Greenville is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Greenville is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. While there are students in the area, there is little else to bring backpackers to town.

Is Greenville or Columbia River Gorge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

Greenville and Columbia River Gorge both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Greenville. There are free trolleys that make their way around the downtown neighborhoods.

Public transit is generally limited in Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.


Is Greenville or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Greenville
Columbia River Gorge

Greenville is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Greenville is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is surprisingly walkable, but like most cities in the area, you need a car to make the most of your visit.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable city. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

For even more information, also check out Is Greenville Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Greenville?

How long in Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Greenville 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 Columbia River Gorge.


  • How many days in Greenville or Columbia River Gorge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Greenville 1-2 
    Columbia River Gorge 2-3

One day in Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Greenville. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Greenville has to offer.

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic region of Columbia River Gorge, 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 Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

Greenville is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 nightlife and food around the destination of Columbia River Gorge, 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 region.


Five days in Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Greenville for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Greenville. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Columbia River Gorge, a popular region, 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 Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

The hospitable destination of Greenville offers nightlife and shopping. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Columbia River Gorge 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 Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Columbia River Gorge or Greenville?

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

  • Greenville Prices
    USA Prices
    Columbia River Gorge Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Greenville $0.00
    Columbia River Gorge $212

The average daily cost (per person) in Greenville is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Columbia River Gorge is $212. 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 Greenville and Columbia River Gorge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Greenville -
    Columbia River Gorge $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Greenville $0.00
    Columbia River Gorge $178
Compare Hotels in Greenville and Columbia River Gorge

Looking for a hotel in Greenville or Columbia River Gorge? 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 Greenville


Hotels in Columbia River Gorge


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: Greenville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Greenville $158
    Columbia River Gorge $78

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Greenville

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

  • Greenville to Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) to Greenville - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) to Greenville - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $174

Is it cheaper to fly into Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

Prices for flights to both Columbia River Gorge and Greenville 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
    Greenville $37
    Columbia River Gorge $79
Typical Food Prices in Greenville

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


  • Marble Slab Creamery (for 2)
    $9.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Greenville $25
    Columbia River Gorge $20

Tours and Activities in Greenville

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

  • Epic Royalty Themed Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Greenville: $10
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Greenville SC: $15
  • Greenville Haunted Bar Tour: $35
  • Paranormal Walking Tour by Greenville Ghost Tours: $35
  • Greenville City Segway Tour: $75
  • 2-Hour Dessert Tour: $90
  • Saturday Morning Breakfast Tour: $90
  • Greenville Bites and Sights Lunch Tour: $95
  • Bites and Sights Guided Walking Tour: $95
  • Small-Group Walking Tour in Greenville with Breakfast: $95
  • Just Desserts Tour In Greenville: $95
  • Pedego Electric Bike Tour at Greenville: $105

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Greenville -
    Columbia River Gorge $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Greenville and Columbia River Gorge, we can see that Columbia River Gorge is more expensive. And not only is Greenville much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Greenville would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Greenville 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 Columbia River Gorge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Columbia River Gorge than you might in Greenville.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Greenville Expensive? and Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Greenville or Columbia River Gorge?

Greenville has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Greenville and Columbia River Gorge, 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.

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