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

Should you visit Chattanooga or Anchorage?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Anchorage? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a outdoorsy, thriving, and bustling city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a nature-oriented, outdoorsy, and scenic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Chattanooga and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
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
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Anchorage?

You'll generally find more things to do in Anchorage than Chattanooga. Anchorage is bigger than Chattanooga, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Anchorage is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Chattanooga is more popular for its nightlife. Anchorage is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Also, Anchorage is famous for Chugach State Park. Chattanooga is well known for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chattanooga
Anchorage

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chattanooga or Anchorage.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chattanooga. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

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 Chattanooga or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chattanooga
Anchorage

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chattanooga area. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Anchorage. 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 Chattanooga or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Anchorage

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

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 Chattanooga or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Anchorage

Anchorage is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Anchorage specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many visitors go to Chattanooga for the hiking trails. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.


Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Anchorage?

Chattanooga
Anchorage

Shopping is a popular activity in both Anchorage and Chattanooga.

Many visitors go to Chattanooga to go shopping. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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 Chattanooga or Anchorage Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Anchorage

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Chattanooga or Anchorage.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Chattanooga. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Anchorage offers lots of family activities. 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 Chattanooga or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Anchorage

Anchorage is a great destination for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Anchorage frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.


Is Chattanooga or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chattanooga
Anchorage

Anchorage is a popular place for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.

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

Chattanooga
Anchorage

Chattanooga is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Chattanooga is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

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 Chattanooga or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Anchorage

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

Chattanooga is very walkable. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chattanooga and Anchorage. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Chattanooga, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

Couples should spend more time in Anchorage than Chattanooga. 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Chattanooga or Anchorage?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Chattanooga. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy city of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Chattanooga or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling destination of Chattanooga. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Anchorage. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Chattanooga or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling city of Chattanooga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The nature-oriented city of Anchorage offers museums and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Chattanooga or Anchorage?

Chattanooga 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.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Anchorage. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Chattanooga?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chattanooga is $182, 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 Chattanooga and Anchorage in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga


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: Chattanooga Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Anchorage $27
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chattanooga:


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62
  • 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
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197

Is it cheaper to fly into Chattanooga or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga $59
    Anchorage $50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

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

  • MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour: $65
  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119

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.
    Chattanooga $52
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

Here are a few actual costs in Chattanooga for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga: $14
  • Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $23
  • Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour: $23
  • ChattaBOOga Ghost Walk Tour in Chattanooga: $23
  • Original Local Award-Winning Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour: $25
  • Ghost & Booze Tour of Chattanooga - 21+ Over: $25
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $25
  • Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga: $25
  • Ghosts of Scenic City: Chattanooga Ghosts, Murder & Mystery Tour: $25
  • Scenic City Ghosts, Voodoo, Murder Mystery Tour: $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:

  • Salmon Express Anchorage's Fish Hatchery Experience: $20
  • Anchorage Trolley Tour: $25
  • Anchorage Museum General Admission Ticket: $25
  • 1-Hour Trolley Tour: $25
  • Adventurers Ready To Jump Into the Void Alaska Style Wanted: $39
  • Botanical Garden Walking Tour: $40
  • Guided Tour of the Alaska Botanical Garden: $45
  • Deluxe Trolley City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage City Tour, Smoked Salmon and Reindeer Sausage Samplings: $59
  • Anchorage's Winter City Tour: $59
  • Last Frontier Anchorage City & Wilderness Tour - Top Winter Value: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chattanooga $24
    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 comparing the travel costs between Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Chattanooga. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga or Anchorage?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Chattanooga or Anchorage in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Anchorage. Many visitors come to Chattanooga in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Chattanooga is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chattanooga in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chattanooga usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Chattanooga gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Anchorage. Most visitors come to Chattanooga for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In the autumn, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the winter. The weather in Chattanooga can be very cold. Chattanooga is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

Chattanooga usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In January, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Chattanooga during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Anchorage for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. In the spring, Chattanooga is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chattanooga in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. In the spring, Chattanooga often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)