A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Anchorage for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Key West or Anchorage?

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

Should I visit Key West 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.

Key West

Key West is a lively, quaint, and laid-back town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a scenic, breathtaking, and cultural city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Key West and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Anchorage?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Anchorage are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Anchorage attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Key West is more touristy than Anchorage and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. Anchorage is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Key West different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Anchorage?

Anchorage is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Key West and Anchorage.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Anchorage is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Key West or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

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

Key West offers plenty to do in the evening. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or Anchorage Better for Resorts?

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

In Key West, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Anchorage Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a town with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Anchorage is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Anchorage is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Key West is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Anchorage is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Key West attract visitors from all over. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Anchorage Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Key West is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West 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.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Anchorage?

Anchorage is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Anchorage offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Anchorage Better for Families?

Key West is a well-known 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.

Key West is a very family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Anchorage Better for Couples?

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

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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.

Is Key West or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Anchorage is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town 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.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Anchorage Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

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

Neither Key West or Anchorage offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

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 Key West or Anchorage a more walkable city?

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

Key West is somewhat walkable. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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 Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Key West?

How long in Key West or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Anchorage. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Anchorage than Key West 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 Key West or Anchorage?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the quaint town of Key West. 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.

The beautiful city of Anchorage offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Anchorage?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the bustling destination of Key West. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Anchorage is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Anchorage?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint town of Key West. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Anchorage?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Anchorage is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Anchorage, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Anchorage much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Anchorage would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Anchorage and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West than you might in Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Anchorage?

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

Both Anchorage and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Key West in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Key West is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Key West usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, 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. Key West is much warmer than Anchorage in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Anchorage. The winter months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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. In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Anchorage averages at about 15°F (-9°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key West usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Anchorage. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Anchorage for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 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 Key West this time of the year. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Key West