A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cody, Wyoming vs. Anchorage for Hiking, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cody, Wyoming and Anchorage can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is a historic, fascinating, and activity-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Cody, Wyoming travel costs.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a outdoorsy, scenic, and breathtaking city. Anchorage is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Anchorage travel costs.

Cody, Wyoming and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • 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


Is there more to do in Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cody, Wyoming. Although Cody, Wyoming and Anchorage are both popular with visitors, Cody, Wyoming has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cody, Wyoming is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Anchorage is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cody, Wyoming is popular for it's Wild West atmosphere and its founder, Buffalo Bill. It is also home to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Anchorage is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Cody, Wyoming different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Cody, Wyoming is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cody, Wyoming. There are some interesting local museums around town. One of the most popular is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. There are also several gun museums like the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum and the Cody Firearms Museum. For history, check out the Museum of the Plains Indian or the Cody Heritage Museum.

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.


Is the Food Better in Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Foodies will find both Cody, Wyoming and Anchorage both to be good destinations.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cody, Wyoming. Most of the restaurants offer a nod to the Wild West theme. There's a soda saloon, barbecue joints, and old fashioned saloons where you can grab a thick steak or fried green tomatoes. Many have fun decor and a family-friendly vibe that sets the atmosphere.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Anchorage. 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 Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Cody, Wyoming 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 Cody, Wyoming. The nightlife scene, like everything else in town, stays true to the Wild West theme. You'll find cowboys and cowgirls on the dance floor and enjoy live music and cold drinks at the local bar.

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 Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage Better for its Old Town?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Cody, Wyoming is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cody, Wyoming to see the historical old town. The historic downtown is small, just a few blocks along Sheridan Avenue, but it's filled with personality. The buildings have local character and highlight the town's past.

Anchorage does not have a historic old town.


Is Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Anchorage is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Anchorage specifically for its hiking. 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.

Cody, Wyoming has hiking trails worth exploring. It's not hard to get out of town and enjoy some hiking. Trails take you through the local landscapes and sometimes offer you the opportunity to see local wildlife.

Is the Shopping Better in Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Cody, Wyoming 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.

Cody, Wyoming is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find quirky shops, local vendors, and sporting equipment stores around town. Whether you want to pick up a souvenir or browse the Wild West paraphernalia, shopping is a fun activity in town.

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 Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage More Beautiful?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Anchorage is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Cody, Wyoming is not a destination known for its beauty.

Anchorage is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city offers access to spectacular beauty. It's surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains, breathtaking glaciers, and vast wilderness.

Cody, Wyoming is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage Better for Families?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Cody, Wyoming 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.

Cody, Wyoming is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a fun stop off for families who are visiting the national parks in the area. There are diverse activities that will give the kids a break from hiking and nature programs. Make sure you check out the Cody Nite Rodeo, the Old Trail Town, and the horseback riding. For a glimpse at what life was like back in the Wild West, check out a Wild Bunch Gunfighters Show.

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 Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Anchorage is a very popular place for romance. Also, Cody, Wyoming is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Cody, Wyoming makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, this is a fun town to shop, dine, and play. There's horseback riding, historical reenactments, and quirky shops. There's also the opportunity to see wildlife and chat with other travelers.

Is Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Anchorage is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cody, Wyoming is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Cody, Wyoming is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of campgrounds and cheap motels in the area.


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

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

Neither Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Cody, Wyoming. There's no real public transit through town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant 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 Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Cody, Wyoming
Anchorage

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

Cody, Wyoming is somewhat walkable. The historic downtown can be explored on foot, but anything outside of town will require a car.

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 Cody, Wyoming Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Cody, Wyoming?

How long in Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

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

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


  • How many days in Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cody, Wyoming 1-3 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

Even though Cody, Wyoming is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cody, Wyoming has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the scenic destination of Anchorage. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

Cody, Wyoming is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Anchorage. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

Cody, Wyoming is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the artsy destination of Anchorage. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

Cody, Wyoming 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.

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful city of Anchorage. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Cody, Wyoming?

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

  • Cody, Wyoming Prices
    USA Prices
    Anchorage Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cody, Wyoming $191
    Anchorage $228

The average daily cost (per person) in Cody, Wyoming is $191, 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 Cody, Wyoming and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cody, Wyoming $78
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cody, Wyoming $156
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Cody, Wyoming and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Cody, Wyoming 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 Cody, Wyoming


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: Cody, Wyoming Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cody, Wyoming $46
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Cody, Wyoming 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
    Cody, Wyoming $80
    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.
    Cody, Wyoming $33
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Cody, Wyoming

For Cody, Wyoming, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Cody Trolley Tours - Best of the West Trolley Tour: $35
  • Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours BY:Red Canyon River Trips: $56
  • Red Canyon River Trips 7 Mile Whitewater Adventure 3:00PM Daily!: $59
  • Red Canyon River Trips Whitewater 7 Mile Adventure 1:00PM Daily : $59
  • Kicking Red Canyon Wild Mustang Bus Tour Deals 5 PM In Cody : $69
  • Kicking Red Canyon Wild Mustang Bus Tour Deals 8am Daily : $69
  • Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tours And Safaris In Cody Wyoming : $89
  • Red Canyon River Trip’s Extended Whitewater Adventure!: $89
  • Private Guided Nature Hiking Experience in Cody Wyoming: $135
  • Red Canyon’s Best Of The Wild West Wild Mustang+Rafting Adventure: $139
  • Rock Climbing Experience: $150
  • Rock Climbing Experience in Cody, Wyoming: $165

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:

  • Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour: $150
  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $239
  • A Quest for Northern Lights Sightseeing Tour: $175
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • Alaska 9 Day Ocean Wildlife to Interior Wilderness Adventure: $7,599
  • Alaska Wildlife Center and Turnagain Arm Tour w/Alyeska Tram: $109
  • Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup: $122
  • Alaska: Kenai Fjords & Denali National Park 5 Day Adventure: $2,599
  • Alaska: Ladies Only Snowshoe Adventure: $75
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Choc Factory Samplings: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cody, Wyoming $18
    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 Cody, Wyoming and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage is more expensive. And not only is Cody, Wyoming much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cody, Wyoming would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cody, Wyoming 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 Cody, Wyoming.

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


Which is Bigger, Cody, Wyoming or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cody, Wyoming. When comparing the sizes of Cody, Wyoming 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.