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

Should you visit Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

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

Should I visit Winston-Salem 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.

Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem is a under-rated, welcoming, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a nature-oriented, outdoorsy, and scenic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Winston-Salem and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

You'll generally find more things to do in Anchorage than Winston-Salem. Anchorage is bigger than Winston-Salem, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Anchorage is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Winston-Salem is more popular for its nightlife and historical sights. Anchorage is more touristy than Winston-Salem and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Also, Anchorage is famous for Chugach State Park. Winston-Salem is well known for it's southern character and quaint college campuses.

How is Winston-Salem different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Winston-Salem or Anchorage.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Winston-Salem. Old Salem has a nice concentration of museums and gardens. Outside of the old town you'll find several art museums like the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts and the Reynolda House Museum of American Art.

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 Winston-Salem or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Winston-Salem and Anchorage.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Winston-Salem area. North Carolina barbecue is popular around town. The city is also the birthplace of Krispy Kreme donuts and during the holiday season you should sample the local Moravian Cookies.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Anchorage. 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 Winston-Salem or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

Winston-Salem is a city 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 Winston-Salem. Local breweries are popping up around town. You'll also find active nightlife venues near the colleges and universities.

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 Winston-Salem or Anchorage Better for its Old Town?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

Winston-Salem is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Winston-Salem to see the historical old town. Nearby Old Salem is filled with historic museums, gardens, and restaurants. A ticket is required for most of the venues, but the atmosphere and architecture are charming.

Anchorage does not have a historic old town.


Is Winston-Salem or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

Anchorage is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Winston-Salem 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.

Winston-Salem is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

Both Winston-Salem and Anchorage are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Winston-Salem to go shopping. You'll find a mix of larger shopping malls, retail outlets, and shopping centers around town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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 Winston-Salem or Anchorage Better for Families?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Winston-Salem or Anchorage.

Winston-Salem is a family-friendly place to visit. There are interactive museums like the Kaleideum science museums. There are also outdoor parks and playgrounds, kid-friendly restaurants, and a children's theater.

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 Winston-Salem or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

Anchorage is notable for couples. However, Winston-Salem is a mediocre city for romance.

Anchorage is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Winston-Salem is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are restaurants and movie theaters that make for a nice date night. There are also parks and walks that will get you outdoors.

Is Winston-Salem or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

Anchorage is a popular place for backpackers. However, Winston-Salem is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Anchorage. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Winston-Salem is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's not on the itinerary for most backpackers.

Is Winston-Salem or Anchorage Better for Students?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

Winston-Salem is a city with good options for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

Winston-Salem is a good city to visit for students. Wake Forest University as well as colleges such as Salem College give parts of the city a collegiate vibe.

Anchorage is not popular with students.


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

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem. There are bus routes, but they are limited in their frequency and convenience, making a car essential for most visitors.

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 Winston-Salem or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Winston-Salem
Anchorage

Winston-Salem and Anchorage both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Winston-Salem is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most pedestrian-friendly part of town, but most of the city requires 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 Winston-Salem Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Winston-Salem?

How long in Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

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

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

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

One day in Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Winston-Salem. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Winston-Salem has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the artsy destination of Anchorage. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Winston-Salem. 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming city of Winston-Salem. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Anchorage. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

Winston-Salem 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.

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful city of Anchorage. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Winston-Salem?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Winston-Salem is $150, 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 Winston-Salem and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Winston-Salem $91
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Winston-Salem $182
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Winston-Salem and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem


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: Winston-Salem Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Winston-Salem $23
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Winston-Salem 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
    Winston-Salem $42
    Anchorage $50

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.
    Winston-Salem $20
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Winston-Salem

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Winston-Salem are as follows:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Winston-Salem by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Carolina History & Haunts Winston-Salem Historical Ghost Tour: $26

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:

  • Anchorage Museum General Admission Ticket: $25
  • 1-Hour Trolley Tour: $25
  • Anchorage Trolley Tour: $25
  • Adventurers Ready To Jump Into the Void Alaska Style Wanted: $39
  • Botanical Garden Walking Tour: $40
  • Deluxe Trolley City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Chocolate Factory Samplings & Much More!: $59
  • Last Frontier Anchorage City & Wilderness Tour - Top Winter Value: $65
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Turnagain Arm Tour: "A Must See Destination": $69
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $73

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Winston-Salem $24
    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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Winston-Salem. When comparing the sizes of Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem or Anchorage?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Winston-Salem or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Winston-Salem are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Winston-Salem in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Winston-Salem is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Winston-Salem in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Winston-Salem. Winston-Salem usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Winston-Salem gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Winston-Salem. In July, Winston-Salem usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Winston-Salem gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Winston-Salem 81°F (27°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Winston-Salem or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Winston-Salem during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Winston-Salem for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In October, Winston-Salem is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Winston-Salem average around 62°F (17°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Winston-Salem. In the autumn, Winston-Salem often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Winston-Salem gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Winston-Salem usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Winston-Salem gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Winston-Salem 62°F (17°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Winston-Salem or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Winston-Salem and Anchorage. The winter months attract visitors to Winston-Salem because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the winter. The weather in Winston-Salem can be very cold. Winston-Salem is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Winston-Salem averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

Winston-Salem usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Winston-Salem gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Winston-Salem usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Winston-Salem gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Winston-Salem 40°F (4°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Winston-Salem or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Winston-Salem as well as Anchorage. Additionally, many travelers come to Anchorage for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. In the spring, Winston-Salem is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Winston-Salem in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Winston-Salem this time of the year. In the spring, Winston-Salem often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Anchorage. Winston-Salem gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Winston-Salem usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Winston-Salem gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Winston-Salem 61°F (16°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)