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

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

Newport

Newport is a coastal, seaside, and historical town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a breathtaking, cultural, and artsy city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Newport and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Newport or Anchorage?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newport than Anchorage, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newport is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Anchorage is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Newport is well known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. Also, Newport is famous for Thames Street. Anchorage is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Newport different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Newport
Anchorage

Newport 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 Newport. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

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 Newport or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newport
Anchorage

Newport is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Anchorage has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Newport or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Newport
Anchorage

Newport is a town 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 Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

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 Newport or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Newport
Anchorage

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

The beaches at Newport attract visitors from all over. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.


Is Newport or Anchorage Better for its Old Town?

Newport
Anchorage

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

Newport is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Is Newport or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Newport
Anchorage

Anchorage is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newport or Anchorage?

Newport
Anchorage

Newport is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport or Anchorage Better for Families?

Newport
Anchorage

Newport 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.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

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 Newport or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Newport
Anchorage

Newport is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Newport is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newport
Anchorage

Anchorage is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.


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

Newport
Anchorage

Newport is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Newport has a few public transit options. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley 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 Newport or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Newport
Anchorage

Newport is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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 Newport Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Newport?

How long in Newport or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newport and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than in Anchorage. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Newport, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than Anchorage 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 Newport.


  • How many days in Newport or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newport 2-5 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Newport or Anchorage?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Newport. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Newport or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the seaside destination of Newport. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Newport or Anchorage?

You'll find nightlife and food around the seaside town of Newport. 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 great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

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 Newport or Anchorage?

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Newport?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Newport is $159, 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 Newport and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newport $92
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newport $184
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Newport and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Newport 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 Newport


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: Newport Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newport $36
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88

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
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219

Is it cheaper to fly into Newport or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Newport 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
    Newport $45
    Anchorage $50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

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.
    Newport $17
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Newport

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

  • Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Newport Downtown Historic Audio APP Self Guided Smart Phone Tour: $6.75
  • Newport Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport's Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Cliff Walk Gilded Age Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Newport Cliff Walk - Legends of the Gilded Age GPS Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Scenic Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13

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:

  • 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 Brews Tour: $169
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $73
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Chocolate Factory Samplings & Much More!: $59
  • Anchorage Ice Fishing Adventure: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newport $14
    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
  • Guided Tour on Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey & Wine Tasting: $285


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

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


Which is Bigger, Newport or Anchorage?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Newport as well as Anchorage. Many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Anchorage in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Newport is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newport in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Anchorage averages at about 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 Newport this time of the year. In the summer, Newport often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Newport gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Newport usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Newport gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newport 73°F (23°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Newport or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Newport are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Newport in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. 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, Newport is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 53°F (12°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. Newport usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Newport gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Newport usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Newport gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newport 53°F (12°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Newport or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Newport during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newport 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. Newport can be very cold during winter. Newport is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

In the winter, Newport often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Newport gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Newport usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Newport gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newport 28°F (-2°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Newport or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newport and Anchorage. The spring months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. 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, Newport is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newport in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. Newport usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage during spring. Newport gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newport usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Newport gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Newport 48°F (9°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Newport

Newport Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)