A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Anchorage for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Anchorage 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful, peaceful, and active recreation area. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a nature-oriented, outdoorsy, and scenic city. The famous beauty of Anchorage is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food. See Anchorage travel costs.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less charming
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


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Anchorage than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Anchorage is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Also, Anchorage is famous for Chugach State Park.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

Anchorage is a city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Anchorage. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

Anchorage is a city with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Anchorage area. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

It's hard to distinguish whether Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage has a better nightlife scene.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Anchorage doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

Anchorage is an amazing city to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for 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.

Many visitors go to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for the hiking trails. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.


Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

Anchorage is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Anchorage to go 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage More Beautiful?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

Anchorage is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Anchorage is one of the main draws. The city offers access to spectacular beauty. It's surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains, breathtaking glaciers, and vast wilderness.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a gorgeous place to visit. From the top of Chimney Rock there's an impressive view point. The area is also filled with natural beauty and peaceful settings.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

Anchorage is a family-friendly recreation area. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Anchorage are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Anchorage is a great recreation area if you're traveling as 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Anchorage

Anchorage is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Anchorage than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

You'll find around the recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Anchorage, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this breathtaking destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

You'll find around the peaceful destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 recreation area has to offer. This recreation area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Anchorage, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Anchorage. 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. This city offers something for everyone.

A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful city of Anchorage. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

  • Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Prices
    USA Prices
    Anchorage Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Anchorage $228

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234, 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


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: Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $91
    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.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    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
  • 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    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 comparing the travel costs between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Anchorage, we can see that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 1570 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.