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

Should you visit Breckenridge or Anchorage?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge 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.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a breathtaking, adventurous, and scenic ski resort. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Breckenridge is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Breckenridge travel costs.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a scenic, breathtaking, and cultural city. You'll find world class beauty in Anchorage as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Anchorage travel costs.

Breckenridge and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
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
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Anchorage?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Breckenridge and Anchorage are popular destinations, Breckenridge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Breckenridge is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Anchorage attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Breckenridge is famous for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. It is also well known for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort. Anchorage is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Breckenridge different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Breckenridge or Anchorage Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

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

Visitors will find world class skiing in Breckenridge. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Anchorage is not a skiing destination.


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

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Anchorage is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Foodies will find both Breckenridge and Anchorage both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Breckenridge. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Anchorage is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Breckenridge or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Breckenridge is a ski resort 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 Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.

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 Breckenridge or Anchorage Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for its resorts. However, Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Breckenridge has a handful of resorts to choose from. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Is Breckenridge or Anchorage Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for its historic old town. However, Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Breckenridge to see the historical old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Anchorage is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.


Is the Shopping Better in Breckenridge or Anchorage?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Breckenridge is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Breckenridge is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Breckenridge or Anchorage More Beautiful?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Anchorage is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort 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.

With stunning beauty, Breckenridge attracts visitors from all around. The beautiful mountains make a great backdrop for one of the area's best ski resorts.

Is Breckenridge or Anchorage Better for Families?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Breckenridge is a well-known 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.

Breckenridge is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

Anchorage is a family-friendly ski resort. 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 Breckenridge or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

With fun activities for couples, both Breckenridge and Anchorage make for a excellent place to visit.

Breckenridge is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Anchorage makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Breckenridge or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Both Breckenridge and Anchorage are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Anchorage is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Breckenridge or Anchorage Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Breckenridge is a moderate ski resort 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 Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

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 Breckenridge or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Breckenridge
Anchorage

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Breckenridge on foot. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable ski resort. 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 Breckenridge Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Breckenridge and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than in Anchorage. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Breckenridge, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

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

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


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

One day in Breckenridge or Anchorage?

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

In Anchorage, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this nature-oriented city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Breckenridge or Anchorage?

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Anchorage is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Breckenridge or Anchorage?

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. Most people head to the area for the skiing. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this ski resort has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Breckenridge or Anchorage?

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

Anchorage is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Breckenridge?

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

  • Breckenridge Prices
    USA Prices
    Anchorage Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Breckenridge $301
    Anchorage $228

The average daily cost (per person) in Breckenridge is $301, 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 Breckenridge and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Breckenridge $143
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Breckenridge $286
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Breckenridge and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge


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: Breckenridge Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Breckenridge $38
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • One Way Private Transfer: $10
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
  • 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, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • Matanuska Glacier Hike with Transfers: $299

Is it cheaper to fly into Breckenridge or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Breckenridge 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
    Breckenridge $119
    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.
    Breckenridge $82
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Breckenridge are as follows:

  • Breckenridge Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $12
  • Self-Guided Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Astronomy Tour in Breckenridge : $59
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Ridden-Fall Foliage EBike Guided Tour of Breckenridge: $95
  • Self Guided Ebike Tour of Breckenridge Lake Loop: $108

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
  • Alaska Native Heritage Center Admission Ticket: $30
  • 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
  • Winter - Anchorage All Around City Tour: $69
  • Alaska: Ladies Only Snowshoe Adventure: $75
  • Anchorage to Whittier Wildlife Adventure: $79
  • Anchorage to Seward Wildlife Adventure: $99

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden-Fall Foliage Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85
  • Ridden-Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer and Distillery Tour: $85

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 Breckenridge and Anchorage, we can see that Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Breckenridge or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Breckenridge 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.