A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Anchorage vs. Halifax for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Anchorage or Halifax?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Anchorage and Halifax can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a outdoorsy, scenic, and breathtaking city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Halifax

Halifax is a cultural, historical, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Anchorage and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Anchorage or Halifax?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Anchorage than Halifax. While Halifax is larger than Anchorage, Anchorage has more sights and attractions for tourists. Anchorage is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Halifax is known for its nightlife. Anchorage is more touristy than Halifax and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. It is also home to Chugach State Park. Halifax is popular for its maritime past.

How is Anchorage different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Anchorage or Halifax?

Both Anchorage and Halifax have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Anchorage is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.

Halifax offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is the Food Better in Anchorage or Halifax? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Anchorage and Halifax can be an enjoyable experience.

Anchorage offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Halifax has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Anchorage or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Halifax is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Halifax. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Anchorage or Halifax Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Anchorage draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Anchorage or Halifax?

Both Anchorage and Halifax are good shopping destinations.

Anchorage is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Halifax. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Anchorage or Halifax Better for Families?

Both Anchorage and Halifax are good to visit with kids.

Anchorage is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Halifax is a family-friendly city. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Anchorage or Halifax Better for Couples?

Anchorage is a very popular place for romance. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Anchorage makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Halifax makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

Is Anchorage or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Anchorage and Halifax are good destinations for backpackers.

Anchorage is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Plenty of backpackers visit Halifax. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Anchorage or Halifax Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Halifax is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Halifax has a few public transit options. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Anchorage or Halifax a more walkable city?

Halifax is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Halifax is somewhat walkable. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Anchorage Worth Visiting? and Is Halifax Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Anchorage?

How long in Anchorage or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Anchorage and Halifax. In our opinion, Halifax has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Halifax than Anchorage. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Anchorage, and 2-3 days is enough time in Halifax.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Halifax than Anchorage 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 Halifax.

One day in Anchorage or Halifax?

In Anchorage, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Halifax. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Anchorage or Halifax?

In Anchorage, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Halifax. 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.

Five days in Anchorage or Halifax?

Anchorage is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Halifax. 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.

A week in Anchorage or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Anchorage. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Anchorage. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Halifax 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Anchorage or Halifax?

Halifax has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Anchorage and Halifax, 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 Anchorage or Halifax?

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 Anchorage or Halifax in the Summer?

Both Halifax and Anchorage during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Halifax because of the family-friendly experiences.

Anchorage is cooler than Halifax in the summer. The daily temperature in Anchorage averages around 59°F (15°C) in July, and Halifax fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Halifax, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Anchorage. In the summer, Anchorage often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Halifax. Anchorage gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun.

Anchorage usually gets less rain in July than Halifax. Anchorage gets 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Anchorage or Halifax in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Anchorage and Halifax. The autumn months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Halifax this time of year.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In the autumn, Anchorage is much colder than Halifax. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Anchorage in October average around 35°F (2°C), and Halifax averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Anchorage usually receives less sunshine than Halifax during autumn. Anchorage gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Halifax receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Anchorage usually receives less rain than Halifax. Anchorage gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Anchorage or Halifax in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Anchorage as well as Halifax. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Halifax for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Halifax. It's quite cold in Anchorage in the winter. In January, Anchorage is generally much colder than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Anchorage average around 15°F (-9°C), and Halifax fluctuates around -4°C (24°F).

In the winter, Anchorage often gets less sunshine than Halifax. Anchorage gets 80 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Halifax. Anchorage usually gets less rain in January than Halifax. Anchorage gets 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Anchorage or Halifax in the Spring?

Both Halifax and Anchorage are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Anchorage for the natural beauty.

Halifax can get quite cold in the spring. Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. Anchorage is much colder than Halifax in the spring. The daily temperature in Anchorage averages around 36°F (2°C) in April, and Halifax fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. Anchorage usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during spring. Anchorage gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. In April, Anchorage usually receives less rain than Halifax. Anchorage gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Halifax and Anchorage