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

Should you visit Memphis or Anchorage?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis 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.

Memphis

Memphis is a soulful, creative, and laid-back 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 breathtaking, cultural, and artsy city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Memphis and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • 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 Memphis or Anchorage?

You'll generally find more things to do in Memphis than Anchorage. Memphis is bigger than Anchorage, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Memphis is better known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Anchorage is more popular for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Anchorage is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Memphis
Anchorage

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Anchorage and Memphis.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Memphis. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

Anchorage is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Memphis or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Memphis
Anchorage

Foodies will find both Memphis and Anchorage both to be notable destinations.

Memphis is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

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.

Is Memphis or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Anchorage

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

Memphis offers plenty to do in the evening. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

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 Memphis or Anchorage Better for Music?

Memphis
Anchorage

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

Memphis is a world class music destination. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Anchorage is not a live music destination.


Is Memphis or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Memphis
Anchorage

Anchorage is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Memphis 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.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Anchorage?

Memphis
Anchorage

Anchorage is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

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.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Memphis or Anchorage Better for Families?

Memphis
Anchorage

Memphis and Anchorage are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Memphis offers lots of family activities. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Anchorage is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Memphis or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Memphis
Anchorage

Anchorage is a great city for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Anchorage is a great city 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.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Is Memphis or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Memphis
Anchorage

Anchorage is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Memphis is not known 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.

Memphis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Is Memphis or Anchorage Better for Students?

Memphis
Anchorage

Memphis is a city with good options for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

Memphis is a good city to visit for students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Anchorage is not popular with students.


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

Memphis
Anchorage

Memphis 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 Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

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 Memphis or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Memphis
Anchorage

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

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

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 Memphis Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Memphis and Anchorage. In our opinion, Memphis has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Memphis than Anchorage. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Memphis, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

Couples should spend more time in Anchorage than Memphis. 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 Memphis 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 Memphis or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Memphis 2-3 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Memphis or Anchorage?

You'll find food and museums around the city of Memphis. 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 Memphis or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the creative destination of Memphis. 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 Memphis or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the soulful city of Memphis. 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 Memphis or Anchorage?

Memphis 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 The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Memphis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $167, 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 Memphis and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Memphis 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 Memphis


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: Memphis Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $133
  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • Private Transfer Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Whittier Cruise Port: $232
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Memphis 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
    Memphis $43
    Anchorage $50
Typical Food Prices in Memphis

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Memphis:


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

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

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

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.
    Memphis $45
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Memphis

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Memphis.

  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Beale Street: $6.50
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Downtown In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Memphis by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure City Game on Your Phone: $10
  • Entry Ticket to the Edge Motor Museum: $10
  • Rock 'n' Soul Museum with Audio Tour: $11
  • Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission Ticket in Memphis: $15
  • 1-Hour Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Memphis Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21

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
  • Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour: $150
  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $226
  • 3 Hour Ladies Only Kayak Tour in Knik River: $130
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • 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 Aurora Tour and Northern Lights Photo: $295
  • Anchorage Brews Tour: $169
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Memphis $26
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Memphis:

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $27
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $59
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $62

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 Memphis 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 Memphis Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Anchorage?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Memphis 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 Memphis 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 Memphis or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Memphis during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Memphis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Memphis is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Memphis in July average around 83°F (29°C), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Memphis. In the summer, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Anchorage. Many travelers come to Memphis 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. In October, Memphis is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 64°F (18°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Memphis usually receives less rain than Anchorage. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Anchorage. Many visitors come to Memphis 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. Memphis can get quite cold in the winter. Memphis is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

In the winter, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Memphis 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 the spring, Memphis is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Memphis in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during spring. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Memphis. In April, Memphis usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Memphis

Memphis Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)