A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Anchorage vs. Vernon for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Anchorage or Vernon?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Anchorage and Vernon can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Anchorage

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

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Vernon travel costs.

Anchorage and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Anchorage or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Anchorage than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Anchorage is more touristy than Vernon 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. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Anchorage different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Anchorage and Vernon have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Vernon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Anchorage and Vernon can be an enjoyable experience.

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.

Vernon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Anchorage or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Both Anchorage and Vernon are respectable when it comes to partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Anchorage or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Anchorage draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Anchorage or Vernon?

Both Anchorage and Vernon are notable shopping destinations.

Anchorage is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Anchorage or Vernon More Beautiful?

Anchorage is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Anchorage as well. The city offers access to spectacular beauty. It's surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains, breathtaking glaciers, and vast wilderness.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Anchorage or Vernon Better for Families?

Both Anchorage and Vernon are notable to visit with kids.

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

Vernon is a family-friendly city. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Anchorage or Vernon Better for Couples?

Anchorage is a well-known place for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Anchorage or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Anchorage is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.

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

Vernon is a moderate town 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 Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

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 Anchorage or Vernon a more walkable city?

Anchorage and Vernon both are respectable when exploring on foot.

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.

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

For even more information, also check out Is Anchorage Worth Visiting? and Is Vernon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Anchorage?

How long in Anchorage or Vernon?

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

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

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

One day in Anchorage or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Vernon. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vernon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Anchorage or Vernon?

Anchorage is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and food around the peaceful destination of Vernon. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Anchorage or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Anchorage. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing town of Vernon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Anchorage or Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Anchorage. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Vernon is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Anchorage or Vernon?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Anchorage and Vernon, 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 Anchorage or Vernon?

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 Anchorage or Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Anchorage are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Vernon because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Anchorage is generally much colder than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Anchorage average around 59°F (15°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Anchorage usually receives more rain than Vernon. Anchorage gets 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Anchorage or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Anchorage during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. Anchorage is much colder than Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Anchorage averages around 35°F (2°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Anchorage usually gets more rain in October than Vernon. Anchorage gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Anchorage or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Anchorage and Vernon. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vernon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vernon. It's quite cold in Anchorage in the winter. In the winter, Anchorage is much colder than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Anchorage in January average around 15°F (-9°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In January, Anchorage usually receives less rain than Vernon. Anchorage gets 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Anchorage or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Anchorage as well as Vernon. Many travelers come to Anchorage for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. In April, Anchorage is generally much colder than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Anchorage average around 36°F (2°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Anchorage usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Anchorage gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vernon and Anchorage