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

Should you visit Chicago 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 Chicago and Anchorage can help you decide which place is right for you.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

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.

Chicago and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Anchorage?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chicago than Anchorage. Chicago is bigger than Anchorage, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chicago is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Anchorage is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Chicago is well known for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. Also, Chicago is famous for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Anchorage is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Chicago different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chicago is an unbeatable 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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Chicago that are not to be missed. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

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 Chicago or Anchorage Better for Theater?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for theatre. However, Anchorage is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Chicago that are not to be missed. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Anchorage is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Chicago have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

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 Chicago or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Chicago is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

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 Chicago or Anchorage Better for Music?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Anchorage is not a live music destination.

Chicago is a world class music destination. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Anchorage is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Chicago. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Is Chicago or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago 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.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Anchorage?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Chicago is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

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 Chicago or Anchorage Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Anchorage does not offer Christmas activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Anchorage does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Anchorage Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Anchorage does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago is a nice place to see Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Anchorage does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Anchorage Better for Families?

Chicago is an unbeatable 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.

Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Anchorage is a family-friendly city. 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 Chicago or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Anchorage is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago 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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Chicago or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago and Anchorage are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chicago is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Chicago or Anchorage Better for Students?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

Chicago is a very popular city for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

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

Chicago 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 Chicago can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

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 Chicago or Anchorage a more walkable city?

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

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible 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 Chicago Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Anchorage?

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

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

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

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

One day in Chicago or Anchorage?

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. 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.

In Anchorage, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Chicago or Anchorage?

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Anchorage, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer.

Five days in Chicago or Anchorage?

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Anchorage is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Chicago or Anchorage?

Chicago 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Anchorage. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Anchorage. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chicago and Anchorage, we can see that Chicago 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago 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 Chicago Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Anchorage?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Chicago 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 Chicago 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 Chicago or Anchorage in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Anchorage. Many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chicago is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chicago in July average around 77°F (25°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 Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chicago usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chicago or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Anchorage. Many visitors come to Chicago in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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, Chicago is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 56°F (14°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In the autumn, Chicago often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Chicago usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Anchorage. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. Chicago can be very cold during winter. Chicago is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 25°F (-4°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chicago usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chicago or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Chicago during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, 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, Chicago is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chicago in April average around 52°F (11°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 Chicago. In the spring, Chicago often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage. Chicago gets 218 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 Chicago. Chicago usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Chicago