A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Anchorage vs. Whistler for Hiking, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Anchorage or Whistler?

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 Whistler 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 cultural, artsy, and nature-oriented city. You'll find world class beauty in Anchorage as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Anchorage travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and charming village. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Whistler travel costs.

Anchorage and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Anchorage or Whistler?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Whistler. Although Anchorage and Whistler are both popular with visitors, Whistler has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Whistler is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, and small town charm, while Anchorage is known for its museums and attractions and impressive beauty. Whistler is more touristy than Anchorage and is known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also home to Cloudraker Skybridge. Anchorage is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Anchorage different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Anchorage or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is an unbeatable place for snow skiing. However, Anchorage is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Whistler. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Anchorage is not a skiing destination.

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

Anchorage is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Whistler 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, Whistler makes for a great culinary experience. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Anchorage or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

Whistler offers plenty to do in the evening. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

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 Anchorage or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Anchorage is not a resort destination.

In Whistler, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Is Anchorage or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Both Anchorage and Whistler are destinations which offer first-rate hiking.

Around Anchorage visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Whistler is well-known for its hiking and trekking. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Is the Shopping Better in Anchorage or Whistler?

Both Anchorage and Whistler are good 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 Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Anchorage or Whistler More Beautiful?

Anchorage is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its scenery and 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.

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Is Anchorage or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is an unbeatable 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.

Whistler is an extremely popular village to visit for families. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Anchorage or Whistler Better for Couples?

Both Anchorage and Whistler are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Is Anchorage or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

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

Whistler is a moderate village 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

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 Whistler a more walkable city?

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

Whistler is very walkable. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Anchorage Worth Visiting? and Is Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Anchorage?

How long in Anchorage or Whistler?

In either Anchorage or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler than Anchorage because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Anchorage, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler 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 Whistler.

One day in Anchorage or Whistler?

The beautiful city of Anchorage offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the village of Whistler. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Anchorage or Whistler?

Anchorage is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Anchorage, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the outdoorsy destination of Whistler. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Anchorage or Whistler?

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the adventurous village of Whistler. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

A week in Anchorage or Whistler?

Anchorage is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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. This city offers something for everyone.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Anchorage or Whistler?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Anchorage and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler 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 Whistler because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Anchorage is cooler than Whistler in the summer. The daily temperature in Anchorage averages around 59°F (15°C) in July, and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Whistler. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. Anchorage usually receives less sunshine than Whistler during summer. Anchorage gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Anchorage usually receives less rain than Whistler. Anchorage gets 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Anchorage or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler 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, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In the autumn, Anchorage is much colder than Whistler. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Anchorage in October average around 35°F (2°C), and Whistler averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Anchorage often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Whistler. Anchorage gets 118 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Anchorage usually gets less rain in October than Whistler. Anchorage gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Anchorage or Whistler in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Whistler. It's quite cold in Anchorage in the winter. In January, Anchorage is generally much colder than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Anchorage average around 15°F (-9°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Anchorage usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during winter. Anchorage gets 80 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Anchorage usually receives less rain than Whistler. Anchorage gets 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Anchorage or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Anchorage as well as Whistler. Many travelers come to Anchorage for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Whistler in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. Anchorage is much colder than Whistler in the spring. The daily temperature in Anchorage averages around 36°F (2°C) in April, and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In the spring, Anchorage often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Anchorage gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Anchorage usually gets less rain in April than Whistler. Anchorage gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Anchorage