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

Should you visit Detroit or Anchorage?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Anchorage, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a artsy, nature-oriented, and outdoorsy city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Detroit and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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


Is there more to do in Detroit or Anchorage?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Detroit than Anchorage. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Detroit is very popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Anchorage attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Anchorage is more touristy than Detroit and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also well known for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Detroit different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Detroit
Anchorage

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Detroit and Anchorage.

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Anchorage. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


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

Detroit
Anchorage

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

Detroit has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Anchorage area. 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 Detroit or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
Anchorage

Detroit is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

Detroit offers plenty to do in the evening. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

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 Detroit or Anchorage Better for Music?

Detroit
Anchorage

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

Detroit is a world class music destination. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Anchorage is not a live music destination.


Is Detroit or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Detroit
Anchorage

Anchorage is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Anchorage draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Anchorage?

Detroit
Anchorage

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Detroit and Anchorage.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Many visitors go to Anchorage to go 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 Detroit or Anchorage Better for Families?

Detroit
Anchorage

Detroit and Anchorage are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Detroit is a family-friendly city. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Anchorage. 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 Detroit or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Detroit
Anchorage

Anchorage is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Anchorage makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Detroit or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Detroit
Anchorage

Anchorage is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

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

Detroit
Anchorage

Detroit is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

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 Detroit or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Detroit
Anchorage

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

Detroit is somewhat walkable. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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 Detroit Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or Anchorage?

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

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

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

One day in Detroit or Anchorage?

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

You'll find live music and food around the under-rated destination of Detroit. 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.

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 Detroit or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the overlooked city of Detroit. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Detroit or Anchorage?

Detroit 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Detroit?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $133, 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 Detroit and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Detroit $64
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Detroit $128
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Detroit and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Detroit 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 Detroit


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: Detroit Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Detroit $37
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Detroit - Wayne County Airport One Way Transfer : $80
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $95
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $95
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $100
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $131
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $143
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $143
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $189

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Detroit or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Detroit 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
    Detroit $44
    Anchorage $50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

For Detroit, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

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.
    Detroit $21
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $6.64
  • Self Guided "Detroit's Spirit and History" Solo Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Windsor by Wacky Walks: $11
  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket: $23
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $24

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
    Detroit $20
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Detroit and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage is more expensive. And not only is Detroit much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Detroit would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Detroit 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 Anchorage would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Anchorage than you might in Detroit.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Detroit Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Detroit or Anchorage?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Detroit 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 Detroit 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 Detroit or Anchorage in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Detroit as well as Anchorage. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Detroit this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Detroit is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 74°F (24°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In the summer, Detroit often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Detroit gets 319 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Detroit usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Detroit gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Detroit 74°F (24°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Detroit are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the autumn. Detroit is much warmer than Anchorage in the autumn. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

Detroit usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Detroit gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Detroit usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Detroit gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Detroit 54°F (12°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Detroit during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Detroit in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during winter. Detroit can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Detroit is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the winter temperatures in Detroit in January average around 25°F (-4°C), and Anchorage averages at about 15°F (-9°C).

In the winter, Detroit often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Detroit gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Detroit usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Detroit gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Detroit and Anchorage. Most visitors come to Detroit for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In April, Detroit is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 49°F (9°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. Detroit usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage during spring. Detroit gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Detroit usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Detroit gets 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Detroit 49°F (9°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Detroit

Detroit Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)