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

Should you visit Hershey or Anchorage?

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

Should I visit Hershey 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.

Hershey

Hershey is a lighthearted, fun-filled, and playful town. It's also known for shopping and museums.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a cultural, artsy, and nature-oriented city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Hershey and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Hershey or Anchorage?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Anchorage. Although Hershey and Anchorage are both popular with visitors, Anchorage has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Anchorage is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is known for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Anchorage and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Anchorage is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. It is also home to Chugach State Park.

How is Hershey different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hershey
Anchorage

Both Hershey and Anchorage have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

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 Hershey or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hershey
Anchorage

Anchorage is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Anchorage offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Hershey or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Anchorage

It's hard to distinguish whether Hershey or Anchorage has a better nightlife scene.

Hershey is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Anchorage doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Hershey or Anchorage Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Anchorage

Hershey is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Anchorage is not a resort destination.

In Hershey, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Anchorage is not a resort destination.


Is Hershey or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Anchorage

Anchorage is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Anchorage?

Hershey
Anchorage

Shopping is a popular activity in both Anchorage and Hershey.

Hershey is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

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 Hershey or Anchorage Better for Families?

Hershey
Anchorage

Hershey 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.

Hershey is an extremely popular town to visit for families. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

Anchorage is a family-friendly town. 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 Hershey or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Hershey
Anchorage

With fun activities for couples, both Hershey and Anchorage make for a excellent place to visit.

Couples visit Hershey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

Anchorage is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Is Hershey or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hershey
Anchorage

Anchorage is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town 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.

Hershey is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there are some fun activities in the area.

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

Hershey
Anchorage

Hershey is a moderate town 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 Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

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 Hershey or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Hershey
Anchorage

Hershey and Anchorage both are decent when exploring on foot.

Hershey is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Hershey Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Anchorage?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Anchorage than Hershey 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 Hershey or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Hershey or Anchorage?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Hershey. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Hershey or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and shopping around the fun-filled destination of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town 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 Hershey or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the playful town of Hershey. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Hershey or Anchorage?

Hershey is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Hershey?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hershey is $212, 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 Hershey and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Hershey 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 Hershey


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: Hershey Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

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 Hershey or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Hershey 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
    Hershey $61
    Anchorage $50
Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

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.
    Hershey $53
    Anchorage $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

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

  • Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket: $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 Museum General Admission Ticket: $25
  • 1-Hour Trolley Tour: $25
  • Anchorage 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
  • Last Frontier Anchorage City & Wilderness Tour - Top Winter Value: $65
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hershey $27
    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 Hershey and Anchorage, we can see that Hershey 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 Hershey Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hershey or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Hershey 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 Hershey 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 Hershey or Anchorage in the Summer?

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

Hershey is much warmer than Anchorage in the summer. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In Hershey, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hershey usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Anchorage. Most visitors come to Hershey for 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 the autumn, Hershey is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hershey in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Anchorage averages at about 35°F (2°C).

In the autumn, Hershey often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Hershey 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 Hershey can be very cold. In January, Hershey is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 30°F (-1°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hershey usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Hershey 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. Hershey is much warmer than Anchorage in the spring. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 53°F (12°C) in April, and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hershey. In the spring, Hershey often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Hershey

Hershey Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)