A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Arlington vs. Anchorage for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Arlington or Anchorage?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Anchorage, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arlington

Arlington is a international, historical, and educational city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a breathtaking, cultural, and artsy city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Arlington and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Arlington or Anchorage?

You'll generally find more things to do in Anchorage than Arlington. Anchorage is bigger than Arlington, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Anchorage is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Arlington is more popular for its museums, food, and nightlife. Arlington is well known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Anchorage is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Also, Anchorage is famous for Chugach State Park.

How is Arlington different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Arlington
Anchorage

Arlington 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 Arlington. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

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 Arlington or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington
Anchorage

Arlington is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arlington makes for a great culinary experience. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

Anchorage has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Arlington or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Anchorage

Arlington is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

Arlington offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

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 Arlington or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Arlington
Anchorage

Anchorage is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Arlington 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.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Anchorage?

Arlington
Anchorage

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Arlington and Anchorage.

Arlington has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

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.

Is Arlington or Anchorage Better for Families?

Arlington
Anchorage

Arlington and Anchorage are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Arlington is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Anchorage. 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.

Is Arlington or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Arlington
Anchorage

Anchorage is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.


Is Arlington or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Anchorage

Arlington is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Plenty of backpackers visit Anchorage. 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.

Is Arlington or Anchorage Better for Students?

Arlington
Anchorage

Arlington is a well-known place for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Arlington. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

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

Arlington
Anchorage

Arlington is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Arlington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

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 Arlington or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Arlington
Anchorage

Arlington is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Arlington is very walkable. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

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 Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arlington and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Arlington than in Anchorage. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Arlington, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

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


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

One day in Arlington or Anchorage?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Anchorage. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Arlington or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the international destination of Arlington. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the breathtaking destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Arlington or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the international city of Arlington. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the nature-oriented city of Anchorage. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Arlington or Anchorage?

Arlington 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.

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Arlington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $264, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $191. 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 Arlington and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Anchorage? 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 Arlington


Hotels in Anchorage


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: Arlington Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Arlington 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
    Arlington $81
    Anchorage $50

Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

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


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Anchorage $30

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:

  • Adventurers Ready To Jump Into the Void Alaska Style Wanted: $39
  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $226
  • 3 Hour Ladies Only Kayak Tour in Knik River: $130
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • Afternoon Wilderness, Wildlife, Glacier Experience from Anchorage: $199
  • Alaska 9 Day Ocean Wildlife to Interior Wilderness Adventure: $6,999
  • Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup: $115
  • Alaska Wildlife Tour: $110
  • Alaska's Most Scenic E-Bike Adventure: $224
  • Anchorage 1 Hour Fat Bike Tours: $105
  • Anchorage Aurora Tour and Northern Lights Photo: $295
  • Anchorage Brews Tour: $169

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $109
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arlington or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 40% larger than the population of Arlington. When comparing the sizes of Arlington and Anchorage, 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 Arlington or Anchorage?

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 Arlington or Anchorage in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Anchorage. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arlington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arlington is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arlington in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arlington this time of the year. In the summer, Arlington often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Arlington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Arlington for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the autumn. In October, Arlington is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 60°F (15°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

Arlington usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Arlington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arlington usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Arlington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Arlington during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Arlington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during winter. Arlington can get quite cold in the winter. Arlington is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

In the winter, Arlington often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Arlington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Arlington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Anchorage. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In the spring, Arlington is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arlington in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In Arlington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arlington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage during spring. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arlington usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Arlington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Arlington

Arlington Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)