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

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

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a cultural, artsy, and nature-oriented city.

Washington and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Washington
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less popular with backpackers
Anchorage
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Cons
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


How is Washington different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Washington or Anchorage Better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Washington
Anchorage

People who enjoy wandering through museums and other attractions will appreciate a visit to Washington a bit more than Anchorage.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events.

Anchorage offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The town has a couple of museums including the Anchorage Museum, the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature and the Alaska Aviation Museum.


Is Washington or Anchorage Better for Food?

Washington
Anchorage

Foodies will appreciated the dining options available in Washington a bit more than Anchorage.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. You can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here, so it's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Anchorage. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Washington or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Anchorage

The nightlife vibe is much better in Washington than Anchorage.

Many people head to Washington for the nightlife scene. Head into Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington to enjoy some of the area's best nightlife.

Most people don't head to Anchorage specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Washington or Anchorage Better for Families?

Washington
Anchorage

You'll find kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Anchorage.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world.

Anchorage is a family-friendly place to visit. Nature lovers will appreciate this unique setting. 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 Washington or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Washington
Anchorage

Both Washington and Anchorage are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Washington is a nice destination for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show.

Anchorage is a very popular place to visit for couples. Anchorage makes a good base for couples who want to explore the unique area. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together.


Is Washington or Anchorage Better for Public Transit?

Washington
Anchorage

Washington has better public transit to get you around.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town.

Is Washington or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Washington
Anchorage

Washington is generally more walkable than Anchorage.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Anchorage is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Washington?

How long in Washington or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Washington and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than Anchorage.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Washington is 3-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Anchorage is 1-3 days.


  • How many days in Washington or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Washington 3-7 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Washington or Anchorage?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. 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.

With around the artsy city of Anchorage, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Anchorage, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Anchorage?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With around the destination of Anchorage, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Washington or Anchorage?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Anchorage, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Anchorage?

Washington is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Washington, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Anchorage is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Which city is cheaper, Anchorage or Washington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $155, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $153. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Washington and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $91
    Anchorage $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $182
    Anchorage $186
Compare Hotels in Washington and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Washington 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 Washington


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: Washington Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $37
    Anchorage $22
Typical Local Transportation prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

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

  • Washington Reagan Airport Transfer to Baltimore & D. C.: $15
  • Private Airport Transfer: Washington to Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA): $40
  • Washington to Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) - Departure Private Transfer: $61
  • Washington Airport Transfers: Washington to National Airport DCA in Business Car: $72
  • Departure Private Transfers: Washington to National Airport DCA in Business Car: $72
  • Private Airport Transfer: from Washington to Dulles International Airport (IAD): $77
  • Private Departure Transfer from Washington City to DCA Regan Washington Airport: $78
  • Departure Private Transfers: Washington to National Airport DCA in Luxury SUV: $78
  • Washington Airport Transfers: Washington to National Airport DCA in Luxury SUV: $82
  • Departure Private Transfers: Washington to National Airport DCA in Luxury Van: $82
  • Washington Airport Transfers: Washington to National Airport DCA in Luxury Van: $82
  • Seattle: Private Transfer to/from Seattle Airport (SEA): $86

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Seward Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $771
  • Private Transfer: Anchorage to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC): $622
  • Private Transfer: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) to Anchorage: $622
  • Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Seward Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $386
  • Private Transfer: Seward Cruise Port to Anchorage Airport (ANC): $292
  • Private Transfer Anchorage Airport ANC to Seward Cruise Port: $292
  • Private Transfer Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Whittier Cruise Port: $209
  • Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Anchorage accommodation - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $67
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Anchorage Airport (ANC): $54
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $54
  • Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Anchorage accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Anchorage accommodation to Anchorage Airport (ANC) - Departure Private Transfer: $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Washington 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
    Washington $30
    Anchorage $40
Typical Food prices in Washington

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


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • Seattle: Pike Place Market Plant-Based Food Tour: $64
  • Washington D.C.: 3.5-Hour Georgetown Food Tour: $65
  • Washington DC: 3-Hour Italian Food Tour: $65
  • Washington DC Food Tour: Italian Cuisine in Dupont Circle: $65
  • Washington, DC: The Original Brew Tour with Tasting & Dinner: $70
  • Adams Morgan Food Tour: $76
  • Washington DC: Private Food Tour Experience: $79
  • Capitol Hill Walking Food Tour: $79
  • U Street Neighborhood Food Tour: $99
  • Washington DC Odyssey Dinner Cruise: $100
  • Private French Cooking Class with an Expert in the Heart of Washington DC: $108
  • Washington, DC 3-Hour Dinner Buffet Cruise: $122

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.
    Washington $19
    Anchorage $24

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • Tidal Basin: Stroll around the cherry blossoms and monuments on an audio tour: $5.00
  • The National Mall: Discover the monuments and their memories on an audio tour: $5.00
  • Lincoln's Assassination: Explore Lincoln's final day on this audio walking tour: $5.55
  • The Kennedy Homes: Explore the colonial architecture on this audio walking tour: $5.55
  • Washington DC Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Washington DC Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Virtual Tour of Martin Luther King Memorial: $18
  • Virtual Tour African American Heritage in Washington DC: $19
  • Washington, DC: US Capitol Building Entry with 1-Hour Tour: $20
  • City Sightseeing Chester Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $21
  • DC Ghost Tour: $24
  • Advance Tickets to Washington, D.C.'s Newseum: $24

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:

  • 2 Hour eBike Adventure along Tony Knowles, Chester Creek Trails and Cook Inlet: $120
  • 30 Minute Flightseeing Tour from Girdwood: $326
  • 9 Day Alaska Wildlife Tour w. Bear+Whale Viewing, 2 Nat'l Parks, Boutique Hotels: $5,985
  • Alaska 7-Day Brown Bears and Denali Adventure from Anchorage: $5,899
  • Alaska Crafted Tour and Railroad Adventure: $339
  • Alaska Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing - 60 mins: $390
  • Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour: $527
  • Alaska Native Historic Cultural City Tour of Anchorage: $59
  • Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup: $105
  • Alaska Wildlife Tour: $99
  • Alaska: 7-Day Brown Bear and Denali National Park Adventure: $5,899
  • Alyeska Tram - A Self-Guided Tour: $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $15
    Anchorage $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Haunted Washington D.C. Ghost and Pub Walking Tour: $27
  • Washington DC: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $34
  • DC: 'New York Times Journeys' Walking Tour with Beer, Cheese and Wine Tasting: $120
  • Seattle All-Inclusive: Hike Mt. Rainier and Wine Tasting: $278
  • NOVA Private Custom Wine Tours & Tasting from DMV: $645
  • 6 Hours Northern VA Wine Tour: $920

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $115
  • Anchorage Bike and Brewery Tour: $219
  • Alaska Brewery and Railroad Experience from Anchorage: $349

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Washington and Anchorage, we can see that Washington 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.


When is the best time to visit Washington 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 Washington or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Washington during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Anchorage in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Washington is much warmer than Anchorage in the summer. The temperature in Washington is usually 79°F (26°C) in July, and Anchorage stays around 59°F (15°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Washington. In the summer, Washington often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Washington 79°F (26°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Washington or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Anchorage. Many visitors come to Washington in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Anchorage can be very cold during autumn. In the autumn, Washington is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October are around 60°F (15°C), and Anchorage is about 35°F (2°C).

Washington usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Washington 60°F (15°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Washington or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Washington as well as Anchorage. Most visitors come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. Washington can be very cold during winter. In January, Washington is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Anchorage stays around 15°F (-9°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Washington 35°F (1°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Washington or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Washington because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the spring. Washington is much warmer than Anchorage in the spring. The temperature in Washington is usually 56°F (14°C) in April, and Anchorage stays around 36°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Washington usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Washington 56°F (14°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Washington

Washington Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)


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Washington vs. Anchorage Travel Comparison

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