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

Should you visit Anchorage or Winnipeg?

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 Winnipeg 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 artsy, nature-oriented, and outdoorsy city. Many visitors also come to Anchorage because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking. See Anchorage travel costs.

Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a friendly, welcoming, and cultural city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Winnipeg travel costs.

Anchorage and Winnipeg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Anchorage or Winnipeg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Anchorage than Winnipeg. While Winnipeg is larger than Anchorage, Anchorage has more sights and attractions for tourists. Anchorage is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Winnipeg attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Anchorage is more touristy than Winnipeg and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. It is also well known for Chugach State Park. Winnipeg is famous for its festivals, culture, and railway connections.

How is Anchorage different from Winnipeg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Anchorage
Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Winnipeg. There are some unique museums around town including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Other popular museums are the Manitoba Museum and the Manitoba Children's Museum.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


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

Anchorage
Winnipeg

Dining out at restaurants in both Anchorage and Winnipeg 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.

Winnipeg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a wide variety of restaurants around town that serve a mix of local dishes and international cuisines. A must-see part of the city is the historic Forks Market.

Is Anchorage or Winnipeg Better for Nightlife?

Anchorage
Winnipeg

Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg. The city has an active nightlife, even during the winter months. You'll find dance clubs, bars, and pubs around town that are popular with locals and visitors alike.

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 Winnipeg Better for Hiking?

Anchorage
Winnipeg

Anchorage is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.

Around Anchorage visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Anchorage or Winnipeg?

Anchorage
Winnipeg

Both Anchorage and Winnipeg are nice 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 Winnipeg. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town, from boutiques to big box shops and even some outlets.

Is Anchorage or Winnipeg More Beautiful?

Anchorage
Winnipeg

Anchorage is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Winnipeg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Anchorage because of it's amazing beauty. The city offers access to spectacular beauty. It's surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains, breathtaking glaciers, and vast wilderness.

Winnipeg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Anchorage or Winnipeg Better for Families?

Anchorage
Winnipeg

Both Anchorage and Winnipeg are nice 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.

Winnipeg is a family-friendly city. Kids will love a visit to the Assiniboine Park Zoo or the Manitoba Children's Museum. There are a number of parks and playgrounds around town as well as the Prairie Dog Central Railway. There are many kid-friendly restaurants in the city as well.


Is Anchorage or Winnipeg Better for Couples?

Anchorage
Winnipeg

Anchorage is great for its romantic activities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Anchorage is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Winnipeg is a good city for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy wandering through Assiniboine Park. There are also many romantic restaurants and spas for couples.

Is Anchorage or Winnipeg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Anchorage
Winnipeg

Both Anchorage and Winnipeg are nice 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 Winnipeg. While it's often overlooked by backpackers, there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Anchorage
Winnipeg

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

Public transit is generally limited in Winnipeg. There's a bus system around town, but many visitors prefer to have a vehicle.

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 Winnipeg a more walkable city?

Anchorage
Winnipeg

Anchorage and Winnipeg both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Anchorage is generally not very walkable. 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.

Winnipeg is generally not a very walkable city. While there are a few walkable neighborhoods, the city itself is not particularly walkable, particularly during the cold winter months.

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

Should I spend more time in Winnipeg or Anchorage?

How long in Anchorage or Winnipeg?

It's fun to spend time in either Anchorage or Winnipeg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Winnipeg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Anchorage, and 2-4 days is enough time in Winnipeg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Anchorage than Winnipeg. 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 Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg.


  • How many days in Anchorage or Winnipeg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Anchorage 1-3 
    Winnipeg 2-4

One day in Anchorage or Winnipeg?

The beautiful city of Anchorage offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Winnipeg. 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 Winnipeg?

Anchorage is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Anchorage, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Winnipeg. 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 Winnipeg?

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Winnipeg. 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 Winnipeg?

Anchorage is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Winnipeg 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 The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Winnipeg or Anchorage?

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

  • Anchorage Prices
    USA Prices
    Winnipeg Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Anchorage $228
    Winnipeg $257

The average daily cost (per person) in Anchorage is $228, while the average daily cost in Winnipeg is $257. 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 Anchorage and Winnipeg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Anchorage $117
    Winnipeg $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Anchorage $234
    Winnipeg $184
Compare Hotels in Anchorage and Winnipeg

Looking for a hotel in Anchorage or Winnipeg? 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 Anchorage


Hotels in Winnipeg


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: Anchorage Hotel Prices and Winnipeg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Anchorage $27
    Winnipeg -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Matanuska Glacier Hike with Transfers: $299
  • Dog Sled Ride in Willow with Transfers: $289
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $227
  • Private Transfer Alaska Anchorage Airport ANC to Anchorage City: $180
  • One Way Private Transfer: $80
  • ANC Airport to City Centre Private Transfer: $79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Winnipeg

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

  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport to Winnipeg Accommodation : $38
  • Winnipeg accomodation to Winnipeg Airport (YWG) - Departure Private Transfer: $81
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $81
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg Hotels: $95
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Hotels to Winnipeg Airport (YWG): $95
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Winnipeg One way Private transfer from/to the Airport: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Anchorage or Winnipeg?

Prices for flights to both Winnipeg and Anchorage 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
    Anchorage $87
    Winnipeg $9.39
Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

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


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Anchorage.

  • City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour - Winter & Summer: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Anchorage $30
    Winnipeg $2.53
Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

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


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

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

  • Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour: $150
  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $239
  • Admissions Ticket - Alaska Native Heritage Center: $30
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • Aerial Tram and Wildlife Center tour from Anchorage: $189
  • Alaska 9 Day Ocean Wildlife to Interior Wilderness Adventure: $7,599
  • Alaska Wildlife Center and Turnagain Arm Tour w/Alyeska Tram: $109
  • Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup: $115
  • Alaska Wildlife Tour: $119
  • Alaska: Cold Weather Kayaking Experience: $150
  • Alaska: Ladies Only Snowshoe Adventure: $75
  • Anchorage City Tour and Highlights: $69

Tours and Activities in Winnipeg

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

  • The Forks Historic Site: a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.74
  • Winnipeg's Most Haunted: a Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour: $6.74
  • Winnipeg's Wealthy Beginnings: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.74
  • Explore The Challenge of Moderninity with Walking Tours in Winnipeg, MB: $6.74
  • Discover Assiniboine Park with a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.74
  • Winnipeg in the Limelight: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.74
  • Manitoba Legislative Grounds: Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.74
  • The Sights of South a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.74
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Winnipeg by Operation City Quest: $11
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Winnipeg MB: $11
  • Wonderful 3 Smartphone Audio Guided Walking Tours: $14
  • Walk 4 Smartphone Audio Walking Tours: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Anchorage $20
    Winnipeg -

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $110
  • Wildlife, Glacier, and Wine Tasting Tour: $199
  • Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Local Honey, Wine Tasting : $295
  • Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey, Wine Tasting: $295


When comparing the travel costs between Anchorage and Winnipeg, we can see that Winnipeg 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 Anchorage Expensive? and Is Winnipeg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Anchorage or Winnipeg?

Winnipeg has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Anchorage and Winnipeg, 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 Winnipeg?

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 Winnipeg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Anchorage as well as Winnipeg. The summer months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Winnipeg this time of year.

In the summer, Anchorage is cooler than Winnipeg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Anchorage in July average around 59°F (15°C), and Winnipeg averages at about 21°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Winnipeg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In the summer, Anchorage often gets less sunshine than Winnipeg. Anchorage gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Winnipeg receives 328 hours of full sun.

Anchorage usually gets less rain in July than Winnipeg. Anchorage gets 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C) 
    Winnipeg 21°C (71°F)

Should I visit Anchorage or Winnipeg in the Autumn?

Both Winnipeg and Anchorage are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Winnipeg for the shopping scene.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the autumn. In October, Anchorage is generally much colder than Winnipeg. Daily temperatures in Anchorage average around 35°F (2°C), and Winnipeg fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Anchorage usually receives less sunshine than Winnipeg during autumn. Anchorage gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Winnipeg receives 147 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Anchorage usually receives more rain than Winnipeg. Anchorage gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C) 
    Winnipeg 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Anchorage or Winnipeg in the Winter?

Both Winnipeg and Anchorage during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Winnipeg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Winnipeg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. Anchorage is much warmer than Winnipeg in the winter. The daily temperature in Anchorage averages around 15°F (-9°C) in January, and Winnipeg fluctuates around -17°C (2°F).

In the winter, Anchorage often gets less sunshine than Winnipeg. Anchorage gets 80 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Winnipeg receives 115 hours of full sun.

Anchorage usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Winnipeg. Anchorage gets 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C) 
    Winnipeg -17°C (2°F)

Should I visit Anchorage or Winnipeg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Anchorage and Winnipeg. Many visitors come to Anchorage in the spring for the natural beauty.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Anchorage is much colder than Winnipeg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Anchorage in April average around 36°F (2°C), and Winnipeg averages at about 5°C (42°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Winnipeg this time of the year. In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. Anchorage usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Winnipeg during spring. Anchorage gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Winnipeg receives 248 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Anchorage usually receives less rain than Winnipeg. Anchorage gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C) 
    Winnipeg 5°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Winnipeg and Anchorage

Anchorage Winnipeg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm) -17°C (2°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Feb 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) -14°C (8°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm) -6°C (22°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Apr 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm) 5°C (42°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm) 19°C (65°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Jul 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm) 21°C (71°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 20°C (68°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 14°C (57°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 7°C (45°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Nov 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm) -3°C (26°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Dec 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm) -13°C (9°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)