A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Anchorage for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Cod or Anchorage?

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 Cape Cod and Anchorage. 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.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a breathtaking, cultural, and artsy city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Cape Cod and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Anchorage?

Both Anchorage and Cape Cod have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Cape Cod is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Anchorage is more popular for its museums, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Anchorage is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Cape Cod different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or Anchorage?

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Anchorage is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Anchorage. 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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Cape Cod 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, Cape Cod makes for a great culinary experience. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

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 Cape Cod or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Anchorage is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Anchorage doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or Anchorage Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Cape Cod is a beach destination with good options for its resorts. However, Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Anchorage is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Cod or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Cape Cod is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Anchorage is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Cape Cod attract visitors from all over. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Anchorage is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for the nearby hiking options.

Anchorage is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Anchorage?

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Cape Cod is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Anchorage. 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 Cape Cod or Anchorage Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Cape Cod is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Anchorage is a family-friendly beach destination. 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 Cape Cod or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Cape Cod and Anchorage both very good destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Anchorage is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Cape Cod or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Anchorage is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.


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

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Cape Cod is a moderate beach destination 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 Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

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 Cape Cod or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Anchorage

Cape Cod is a beach destination with good options for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable beach destination. 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 Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cape Cod and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Anchorage. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Cape Cod or Anchorage?

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

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.


A weekend in Cape Cod or Anchorage?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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.

Five days in Cape Cod or Anchorage?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer.

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.

A week in Cape Cod or Anchorage?

Cape Cod is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Cod, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Cape Cod?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $183, 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 Cape Cod and Anchorage in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod


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: Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Cape Cod 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
    Cape Cod $60
    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

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: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Yoga and National Seashore with guided Hike Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117

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:

  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $226
  • 3 Hour Ladies Only Kayak Tour in Knik River: $130
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • 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 Brews Tour: $169
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $73
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Chocolate Factory Samplings & Much More!: $59
  • Anchorage Ice Fishing Adventure: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    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
  • Guided Tour on Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey & Wine Tasting: $285


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



When is the best time to visit Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Cape Cod during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cape Cod is a little warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cape Cod in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. In the summer, Cape Cod often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Cape Cod gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and Anchorage. The autumn months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the autumn. In October, Cape Cod is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 53°F (12°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

Cape Cod usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Cape Cod gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Anchorage in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. It's quite cold in Cape Cod in the winter. Cape Cod is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

In the winter, Cape Cod often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Cape Cod gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the winter. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the spring for the natural beauty.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Cape Cod is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cape Cod in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage during spring. Cape Cod gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. In April, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Cape Cod

Cape Cod Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)