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

Should you visit Charlotte or Anchorage?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Charlotte and Anchorage can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

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.

Charlotte and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Anchorage?

You'll generally find more things to do in Charlotte than Anchorage. Charlotte is bigger than Anchorage, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Charlotte is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Anchorage is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Anchorage is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. Also, Charlotte is famous for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

How is Charlotte different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Charlotte
Anchorage

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Anchorage and Charlotte.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlotte. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

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.


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

Charlotte
Anchorage

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Charlotte and Anchorage.

Charlotte is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

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.

Is Charlotte or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Anchorage

Charlotte 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 Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

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 Charlotte or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Charlotte
Anchorage

Anchorage is terrific for hiking. However, Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Anchorage specifically for its hiking. 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.

Charlotte is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Anchorage?

Charlotte
Anchorage

If you're looking to go shopping, Charlotte and Anchorage both offer plenty of notable spots.

Charlotte has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

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 Charlotte or Anchorage Better for Families?

Charlotte
Anchorage

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Charlotte or Anchorage.

Charlotte offers lots of family activities. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

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.

Is Charlotte or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Anchorage

Anchorage is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.


Is Charlotte or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Charlotte
Anchorage

Anchorage is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte is not a good destination for backpackers.

Anchorage is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Charlotte is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a backpacker destination, there are some cheaper motels that budget travelers can stay at.

Is Charlotte or Anchorage Better for Students?

Charlotte
Anchorage

Charlotte is a city with good options for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

Charlotte is a good city to visit for students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

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

Charlotte
Anchorage

Charlotte 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.

Charlotte has a few public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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 Charlotte or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Anchorage

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

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Charlotte Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Charlotte and Anchorage. In our opinion, Charlotte has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Charlotte than Anchorage. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Anchorage than Charlotte 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 Charlotte or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Charlotte or Anchorage?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Charlotte. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charlotte has to offer. 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 Charlotte or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the up-and-coming destination of Charlotte. 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 Charlotte or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the growing city of Charlotte. 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 outdoorsy 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 Charlotte or Anchorage?

Charlotte 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Charlotte?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $191, 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 Charlotte and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte 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 Charlotte


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: Charlotte Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54
  • Charlotte City to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Arrival Private Transfer: $68
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $134
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $134
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $137
  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $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 Charlotte or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $46
    Anchorage $50
Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

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


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

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.
    Charlotte $43
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Charlotte by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Uptown A Self-Guided Audio Tour to the Heart of Queen City: $12
  • Self-Guided City Highlights Audio Tour: $12
  • Uptown Funk: 1 Hour Guided Walking Tour of Charlotte: $15
  • UPTOWN FUNK: 1 Hour Guided Historical Walking Tour in Charlotte: $15
  • Charlotte Hornets Basketball Game Ticket: $16
  • Charlotte Hornets Basketball Game Ticket at Spectrum Center: $16
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Charlotte by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sea Life Charlotte Concord Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25

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
    Charlotte $20
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Charlotte:

  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Original Charlotte Brewery Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $125
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240

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


Which is Bigger, Charlotte or Anchorage?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Charlotte 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 Charlotte 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 Charlotte or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Charlotte during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Charlotte for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Anchorage in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Charlotte is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charlotte in July average around 81°F (27°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 Charlotte. In the summer, Charlotte often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Charlotte gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. Charlotte usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlotte and Anchorage. Many visitors come to Charlotte in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during autumn. In October, Charlotte is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 63°F (17°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. Charlotte usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Charlotte gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Charlotte usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Charlotte as well as Anchorage. Most visitors come to Charlotte for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. Charlotte is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 42°F (6°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

In the winter, Charlotte often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Charlotte gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Charlotte usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Charlotte are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the spring. In the spring, Charlotte is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charlotte in April average around 63°F (17°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 Charlotte. Charlotte usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during spring. Charlotte gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Charlotte usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Charlotte

Charlotte Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)