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

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

Durham

Durham is a student-filled, sports oriented, and diverse city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a nature-oriented, outdoorsy, and scenic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Durham and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Durham or Anchorage?

You'll generally find more things to do in Anchorage than Durham. Anchorage is bigger than Durham, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Anchorage is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Durham is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Anchorage is more touristy than Durham 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. Durham is well known for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Durham different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Durham 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 Durham. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

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 Durham or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Durham and Anchorage can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Durham area. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

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 Durham or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Durham 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 Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

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 Durham or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Durham 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.

Durham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Durham or Anchorage?

Both Durham and Anchorage are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Durham to go shopping. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

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 Durham or Anchorage Better for Families?

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

Durham is a family-friendly place to visit. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

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 Durham or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Anchorage is a well-known place for couples. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Anchorage is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Durham is a nice destination for couples. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Is Durham or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Anchorage is very good for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Durham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The student population means there are a number of parties and bars around town, but most backpackers overlook this city.

Is Durham or Anchorage Better for Students?

Durham is a well-known place for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Durham. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

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

Durham 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 Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

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 Durham or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Durham and Anchorage both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Durham is generally not very walkable. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.

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 Durham Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Durham?

How long in Durham or Anchorage?

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

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

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

One day in Durham or Anchorage?

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Durham or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse destination of Durham. 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.

Anchorage is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Durham or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the student-filled city of Durham. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Anchorage. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Durham or Anchorage?

Durham 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the artsy destination of Anchorage. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Durham and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage is more expensive. And not only is Durham much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Durham would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Durham 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 Durham.

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

Which is Bigger, Durham or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Durham. When comparing the sizes of Durham 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 Durham 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 Durham or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Durham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Durham for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Durham is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Durham in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Durham. Durham usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Durham gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Durham. In July, Durham usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Durham gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Durham or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Durham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Durham in the autumn for the shopping scene. 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, Durham is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 61°F (16°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Durham. In the autumn, Durham often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Durham gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Durham gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Durham or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Durham and Anchorage. Most visitors come to Durham for the museums, the shopping scene, 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. Durham can be very cold during winter. Durham is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Durham averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

Durham usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Durham gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Durham usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Durham gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Durham or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Durham as well as Anchorage. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the spring. In the spring, Durham is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Durham in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Durham this time of the year. In the spring, Durham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage. Durham gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Durham gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Durham