A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Avon vs. Anchorage for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Avon or Anchorage?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Avon and Anchorage. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Avon

Avon is a outdoorsy, scenic, and active town. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Avon travel costs.

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.

Avon and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Avon or Anchorage?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Avon. Although Avon and Anchorage are both popular with visitors, Avon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Avon is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, and resorts, while Anchorage is known for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Avon is popular for it's affordable accommodation options and its access to Beaver Creek Ski Resort. It is also home to Avon Recreation Center. Anchorage is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Avon different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Avon or Anchorage Better for Skiing?

Avon
Anchorage

Avon is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Anchorage is not a skiing destination.

Avon is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. Beaver Creek is the main ski area near town and it's about a mile away. The town of Avon is below Beaver Creek and is located beside an interstate.

Anchorage is not a skiing destination.


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

Avon
Anchorage

Anchorage is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Avon is a mediocre town 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 Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While there aren't a ton of museums in the area, it's worth checking out the Walking Mountains Science Center.

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

Avon
Anchorage

Both Avon and Anchorage offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Avon offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for Chinese, pizza, or burgers.

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 Avon or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Avon
Anchorage

Avon is a town 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 Avon. It's a small town but there are some bars and lively pubs where you can enjoy cold drinks.

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 Avon or Anchorage Better for Resorts?

Avon
Anchorage

Avon is a town with good options for its resorts. However, Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Avon has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are the typical chain resort options, many with beautiful mountain views.

Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Is Avon or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Avon
Anchorage

Anchorage is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Anchorage is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Avon is a good destination for hiking. There are paved trails and recreational paths through town that are great for both hiking and biking. The main ones are Eagle Valley Trail and the trails in West Avon Preserve.

Is the Shopping Better in Avon or Anchorage?

Avon
Anchorage

Anchorage is a good destination for shopping. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Avon has some nice offerings. There aren't a ton of shopping opportunities in town, but there are enough shops around in case you need to pick up necessities or buy a gift.


Is Avon or Anchorage More Beautiful?

Avon
Anchorage

Anchorage is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Avon 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.

Avon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Avon or Anchorage Better for Families?

Avon
Anchorage

Both Avon and Anchorage are good family-friendly destinations.

Avon is a family-friendly place to visit. There are parks and playgrounds around town and there's easy access to the Beaver Creek Ski Resort. There's also plenty of hiking in the area.

Anchorage is a family-friendly town. 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 Avon or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Avon
Anchorage

Anchorage is notable for romance. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Avon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While avid skiers prefer to stay at nearby Beaver Creek, the town of Avon offers a good alternative.


Is Avon or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Avon
Anchorage

Anchorage is a good destination for backpackers. However, Avon is a mediocre town 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.

Avon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers prefer to stay closer to the ski facilities.

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

Avon
Anchorage

Avon is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Avon has a few public transit options. There are shuttles and buses that travel through town and to Beaver Creek.

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 Avon or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Avon
Anchorage

Avon is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Avon is somewhat walkable. The town center is small and there are paved walking trails that you can use. It's possible to walk to restaurants or the recreation center, depending on where you're staying.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Avon?

How long in Avon or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Avon and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Avon than in Anchorage. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Avon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

Couples should spend more time in Anchorage than Avon. 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 Avon 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 Avon or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Avon 2-4 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Avon or Anchorage?

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Avon. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Anchorage. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Avon or Anchorage?

You'll find food and skiing around the active destination of Avon. 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.

Anchorage is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Avon or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the active town of Avon. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural destination of Anchorage. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Avon or Anchorage?

Avon 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.

The breathtaking city of Anchorage offers museums and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Avon?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Avon Prices
    USA Prices
    Anchorage Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Avon $326
    Anchorage $228

The average daily cost (per person) in Avon is $326, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $228. 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 Avon and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Avon $177
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Avon $354
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Avon and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Avon 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 Avon


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: Avon Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Avon $41
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • One Way Private Transfer: $10
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
  • Anchorage to Whittier Direct Transfer Tour: $75
  • ANC Airport to City Centre Private Transfer: $79
  • Private Transfer Alaska Anchorage Airport ANC to Anchorage City: $180
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $227
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $227
  • Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • Matanuska Glacier Hike with Transfers: $299

Is it cheaper to fly into Avon or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Avon 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
    Avon $117
    Anchorage $87

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 - Winter & Summer: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Avon $48
    Anchorage $30

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
  • Anchorage Trolley Tour: $25
  • Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage's Winter City Tour = Samples + Stops + WildLife: $59
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Choc Factory Samplings: $59
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Alaska: Ladies Only Snowshoe Adventure: $75
  • Anchorage to Whittier Wildlife Adventure: $79
  • Downtown Anchorage Tour on 14-Passenger Electric Vehicle: $100
  • Anchorage's Authentic Dog Sledding Experience: $105
  • Alaska Wildlife Center and Turnagain Arm Tour w/Alyeska Tram: $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Avon $38
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $110
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179
  • Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey, Wine Tasting: $310


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Avon and Anchorage, we can see that Avon is more expensive. And not only is Anchorage much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Anchorage would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Anchorage 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 Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avon than you might in Anchorage.

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


Which is Bigger, Avon or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Avon. When comparing the sizes of Avon 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.