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

Should you visit Cincinnati or Anchorage?

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

Should I visit Cincinnati 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.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a hard-working, blue collar, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a scenic, breathtaking, and cultural city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Cincinnati and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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 Cincinnati or Anchorage?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Anchorage. Although Cincinnati and Anchorage are popular destinations, Anchorage has more sights and attractions for tourists. Anchorage is very popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cincinnati attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Anchorage is more touristy than Cincinnati and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. It is also well known for Chugach State Park. Cincinnati is famous for its breweries and down-to-earth personality.

How is Cincinnati different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cincinnati
Anchorage

Cincinnati is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cincinnati. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


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

Cincinnati
Anchorage

Anchorage is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Cincinnati is not a culinary destination.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Cincinnati is not a culinary destination.

Is Cincinnati or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Cincinnati
Anchorage

Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

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 Cincinnati or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Cincinnati
Anchorage

Anchorage is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Cincinnati is not a hiking destination.

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.

Cincinnati is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cincinnati or Anchorage?

Cincinnati
Anchorage

Shopping is a popular activity in both Anchorage and Cincinnati.

Cincinnati offers some nice shopping areas. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.

Anchorage has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Cincinnati or Anchorage Better for Families?

Cincinnati
Anchorage

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cincinnati or Anchorage.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cincinnati. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.

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 Cincinnati or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Cincinnati
Anchorage

Anchorage is well known for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

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.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.


Is Cincinnati or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cincinnati
Anchorage

Cincinnati and Anchorage are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cincinnati. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

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.

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

Cincinnati
Anchorage

Cincinnati 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.

Cincinnati has a few public transit options. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

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 Cincinnati or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Cincinnati
Anchorage

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

Cincinnati is very walkable. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

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 Cincinnati Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Cincinnati?

How long in Cincinnati or Anchorage?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Anchorage than Cincinnati. 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati.


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

One day in Cincinnati or Anchorage?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Cincinnati. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cincinnati has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and food around the outdoorsy city of Anchorage, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Cincinnati or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the blue collar destination of Cincinnati. 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.

With food and shopping around the destination of Anchorage, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Cincinnati or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the blue collar city of Cincinnati. 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.

Anchorage, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Cincinnati or Anchorage?

Cincinnati 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 place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Cincinnati?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cincinnati $102
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cincinnati $204
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Cincinnati and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati


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: Cincinnati Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cincinnati $25
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cincinnati

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cincinnati:

  • Cincinnati to Cincinnati Airport (CVG) - Departure Private Transfer: $35

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
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
  • Private Transfer Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Whittier Cruise Port: $232
  • 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 Cincinnati or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Cincinnati 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
    Cincinnati $55
    Anchorage $50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cincinnati

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

  • Ohio River Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $61
  • Mainstrasse Village Food Tour in Covington KY: $79
  • Cincinnati Court Street Food Tour with Vegan Options: $85
  • Cincinnati Streetcar Food Tour With Findlay Market : $85
  • Cincinnati Walking Sightseeing Tour with Pizza and Ice-cream: $120

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.
    Cincinnati $26
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Cincinnati

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

  • Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour: $6.75
  • Mt Adams Historic, Cincinnati, App/GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Mount Adams Historic Smartphone Guided App GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self Guided Cincinnati Ghost Haunted Walking Tour Audio Tour Music Hall OTR: $7.75
  • Self Guided Walking Tour of Cincinnati: $9.59
  • Queen of the West's Best - An Audio Tour: $12
  • Reds Hall of Fame and Museum Entry Ticket: $12
  • Cincinnati Reds Baseball Game Ticket at Great American Ballpark: $16
  • Tour of Historic Wesleyan Cemetery: $20
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati: $25
  • Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati Sights & Stories: $28

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's Winter City Tour: $59
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Chocolate Factory Samplings & Much More!: $59
  • Last Frontier Anchorage City & Wilderness Tour - Top Winter Value: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cincinnati $11
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Cincinnati

Also in Cincinnati, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Cincinnati Bar Hunt: Cin-sational Cincinnati Bar Crawl: $12
  • Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting: $49
  • Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop: $64
  • Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour: $68

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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cincinnati or Anchorage?

Cincinnati has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati or Anchorage in the Summer?

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

In July, Cincinnati is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Cincinnati average around 79°F (26°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In Cincinnati, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cincinnati usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Cincinnati gets 298 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cincinnati usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Cincinnati or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cincinnati as well as Anchorage. Most visitors come to Cincinnati for the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, 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. Cincinnati is much warmer than Anchorage in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cincinnati averages around 58°F (15°C) in October, and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In the autumn, Cincinnati often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Cincinnati gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cincinnati 58°F (15°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Cincinnati are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cincinnati because of the museums and the shopping scene. 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 Cincinnati can be very cold. In the winter, Cincinnati is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cincinnati in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Anchorage averages at about 15°F (-9°C).

Cincinnati usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Cincinnati gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cincinnati usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Cincinnati gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Cincinnati or Anchorage in the Spring?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. In April, Cincinnati is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Cincinnati average around 56°F (14°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cincinnati. In the spring, Cincinnati often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Cincinnati gets 215 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Cincinnati usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Cincinnati

Cincinnati Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 46°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 48°F (9°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)