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

Should you visit Tampa or Anchorage?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for 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.

Tampa and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Tampa or Anchorage?

You'll generally find more things to do in Tampa than Anchorage. Tampa is bigger than Anchorage, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tampa is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Anchorage is more popular for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Anchorage is more touristy than Tampa and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. Also, Tampa is famous for Busch Gardens.

How is Tampa different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tampa
Anchorage

Anchorage is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Anchorage. 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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tampa
Anchorage

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

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

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 Tampa or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Anchorage

Both Tampa and Anchorage have respectable vibes after the sun sets.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Tampa. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Anchorage is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Tampa or Anchorage Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Anchorage

Tampa is a moderate city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Anchorage is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Anchorage is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Tampa or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Anchorage

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

The beaches at Tampa attract visitors from all over. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Is Tampa or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Tampa
Anchorage

Anchorage is an amazing city to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Anchorage?

Tampa
Anchorage

Anchorage is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Tampa or Anchorage Better for Families?

Tampa
Anchorage

Tampa 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.

Tampa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Anchorage is a family-friendly city. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Tampa or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Tampa
Anchorage

Anchorage is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tampa
Anchorage

Anchorage is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Tampa
Anchorage

Neither Tampa or Anchorage offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Public transit is limited or non-existant 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 Tampa or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Tampa
Anchorage

Tampa and Anchorage are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

Anchorage is generally not very walkable. 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 Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Anchorage?

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

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

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

One day in Tampa or Anchorage?

You'll find food around the city of Tampa. 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, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Tampa or Anchorage?

You'll find food around the laid-back destination of Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Anchorage. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the easy-going city of Tampa. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Anchorage is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Anchorage. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Anchorage?

Tampa 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, 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 Tampa and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Private transfer: From Tampa to airport and vice versa : $18
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Tampa Airport (TPA): $36
  • Private One-way Tampa Airport Transfer To/From Tampa: $46
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port-Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Arrival Private Transfer: $54
  • Private Transfer to/from Tampa Airport (TPA): $70
  • Departure Private Transfer: Tampa City to Tampa Airport TPA in Business Car: $73
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Tampa Airport TPA to Tampa City in Business Car: $73
  • Private transfer Arrival or Departure - Tampa International Airport (TPA): $79
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108

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
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward 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 Tampa or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Anchorage $50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

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.
    Tampa $20
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Riverwalk: A Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.33
  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour: $26
  • The Official Downtown Tampa Ghost Tour: $30
  • Sunset and Night Cruises Tour: $30
  • Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • Tampa History Cruise: $31
  • Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour: $31
  • The Florida Aquarium Ticket: $34
  • Ghost Investigation Tours with Interactive Paranormal Experience: $35

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
  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $226
  • 3 Hour Ladies Only Kayak Tour in Knik River: $130
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • Afternoon Wilderness, Wildlife, Glacier Experience from Anchorage: $199
  • 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 1 Hour Fat Bike Tours: $105
  • Anchorage Aurora Tour and Northern Lights Photo: $295
  • Anchorage Brews Tour: $169

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40

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 Tampa 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 Tampa Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Anchorage?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Anchorage in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Anchorage. Many visitors come to Tampa in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Tampa is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July average around 82°F (28°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 Tampa this time of the year. In the summer, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Tampa receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tampa usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tampa 82°F (28°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tampa for the city's sights and attractions 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 October, Tampa is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tampa usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Tampa during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Tampa because of 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. Tampa is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the winter, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Anchorage. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Anchorage for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. In the spring, Tampa is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April average around 71°F (22°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 Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during spring. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tampa usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Tampa

Tampa Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)