13 Stunning & Affordable Places to Fly from Anchorage Right Now

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Alaska might be remote, but I was shocked to discover how many amazing places you can reach on a budget from Anchorage. Every time I check flights, I find new deals that make me want to book a ticket right away. Seattle is often cheaper than my monthly grocery bill, and from there the entire West Coast opens up.

Let me show you the best places to fly from Anchorage without emptying your wallet. I recently scored an incredible deal to Portland, where I spent days exploring Powell’s Books and eating at food trucks in the sunshine. From quick weekend trips to Hawaii’s beaches to city adventures in San Francisco, these 13 destinations prove you don’t have to spend a fortune to escape those long Alaska winters.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Anchorage

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. ANC or MRI) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 2024 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $485 roundtrip fare from Los Angeles to Tokyo. On average, I save about $400 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 1-2 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Most Stunning & Affordable Places to Fly from Anchorage

Looking for the best places to fly from Anchorage? Anchorage to Seattle is a quick and convenient trip to the Pacific Northwest. Anchorage to Portland offers a gateway to Oregon’s scenic beauty and vibrant food scene. Anchorage to Salt Lake City is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and ski lovers. Anchorage to San Diego provides a sunny escape with stunning beaches and a laid-back vibe. Whether you’re after nature, city life, or warm weather, these are great flight options from Anchorage.

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1. Anchorage to Seattle ($150-$200 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September 🌞 for the best weather and outdoor activities
• 🏆 Perfect for: Coffee lovers ☕, outdoor adventurers 🏔️, weekend getaways 🧳

Seattle is a city where world-class coffee and epic nature trails are literally within minutes of each other. The city has tons of iconic spots that actually live up to the hype.

Pike Place Market is where fishmongers throw salmon through the air while you sample local eats, while the Space Needle gives you views so good they’re worth the tourist tax. Don’t miss taking a ferry to Bainbridge Island (the boat ride alone has killer skyline views), grabbing coffee at the original Starbucks, or exploring the weird and wonderful exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture.

Hit the city between June and September when Seattle’s in full bloom. We’re talking about sunshine, patios, and breathtaking mountain views! And when it comes to flights, Alaska Airlines runs the most direct flights and often has deals under $200 if you book 4-6 weeks ahead. The Seattle airport connects directly to downtown via light rail in just 30 minutes. 

2. Anchorage to Portland ($189-$250 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September 🌞 for warm, dry weather and outdoor events
• 🏆 Perfect for: Foodies 🍩, nature lovers 🌲, book enthusiasts 📚

Portland is the kind of place where you can hike through a mossy forest, grab kimchi tacos from a food cart, and browse indie zines all before lunch. It’s proudly weird in a way that actually works, blending creative energy with laid-back vibes that make the city instantly feel like home.

Lose yourself inside Powell’s City of Books, an entire block of color-coded shelves and reading nooks. Wander the peaceful trails of the Japanese Garden, then hit the downtown food cart pods where everything from Korean BBQ to vegan mac battles for your attention. Rent a bike along the Willamette River, or take a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge for a front-row seat to Multnomah Falls.

When traveling to Portland, Midweek flights usually offer the best prices. Alaska Airlines runs the most direct routes from Anchorage, with roundtrip fares often dipping under $200 if you book 4 to 6 weeks in advance. Summer is the sweet spot when Portland shakes off the rain and fills its parks, patios, and pop-up fairs with nonstop energy.

3. Anchorage to Salt Lake City ($256-$310 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Delta, Alaska Airlines (4+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November 🍂 and March to May 🌸 for mild weather and lower prices
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts 🏔️, skiers 🎿, history lovers 🏛️

Salt Lake City is a place where you can ski world-class slopes in the morning and be back downtown for dinner. The city sits in this perfect bowl surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains that seem too perfect to be real.

Temple Square is the historic heart of the city where you can tour the massive Mormon temple grounds, while the actual Great Salt Lake lets you float effortlessly like you’re in the Dead Sea – though fair warning, it smells a bit funky. Don’t miss driving to nearby national parks like Arches with its otherworldly rock formations.

Since Delta operates a major hub here, flights from Anchorage run frequently, though budget-conscious travelers should watch for occasional Alaska Airlines deals. Skip summer’s heat and winter’s freeze by planning your visit during the pleasant shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

• Read Next: Beautiful Places in Utah You Need to Visit

4. Anchorage to San Diego ($299-$370 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta (4+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for fewer crowds and better deals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, laid-back travelers 😎

If LA is all hustle and flash, San Diego is its chill cousin who surfs before breakfast and never sets an alarm. The weather stays golden most of the year, the beaches are cleaner, and the pace is exactly what you want for a low-stress getaway.

Head to La Jolla Cove, where seals lounge on the rocks like locals who never left. Spend a day wandering Balboa Park, home to leafy gardens, Spanish-style architecture, and over a dozen museums. The San Diego Zoo really is world-class, and the USS Midway museum lets you roam a retired aircraft carrier that feels like a floating time capsule. But some of the best memories happen when you’re eating fish tacos with your toes in the sand and nowhere else to be.

Flying from Anchorage is easy, especially with Alaska Airlines, which often drops fares under $330 if you book six to eight weeks ahead. Spring and fall bring the best of both worlds: perfect weather, fewer crowds, and enough elbow room to actually enjoy the beach without fighting for parking.

5. Anchorage to Vancouver ($213-$290 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, WestJet (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October 🌸 for the best weather and outdoor experiences
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor adventurers 🚵‍♀️, food lovers 🍜, city explorers 🏙️

Vancouver is that rare city where you can literally see mountains, ocean, and skyscrapers all in one view. The city has this perfect blend of urban stuff and nature that most places just can’t pull off.

Start your day with a bike ride along the Seawall at Stanley Park, a scenic path that hugs the shoreline and offers nonstop views. Then head to Richmond, where the Asian food scene is next-level. You’ll find handmade dumplings, steaming bowls of ramen, and dim sum that locals argue rivals anything in Hong Kong. If you’re up for a challenge, hike the Grouse Grind, a steep trail with nearly 3,000 steps that delivers jaw-dropping views at the top.

Flights from Anchorage are frequent and usually well-priced. Air Canada and WestJet often offer deals on midweek departures, especially if you book four to six weeks in advance. Aim for May or September to catch the city at its best, with clear skies, open trails, and just enough buzz without the summer crowds.

6. Anchorage to Los Angeles ($245-$320 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta, American Airlines (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for ideal weather and fewer tourists
• 🏆 Perfect for: Movie buffs 🎬, beachgoers 🏄‍♂️, first-time California visitors 🌴

Los Angeles feels like ten cities in one. You’ve got beach towns, canyon hikes, movie sets, and high-end shopping, all stitched together by endless sun and palm trees.

Hit the Hollywood Walk of Fame once, then head to the Griffith Observatory for epic skyline views and that classic Hollywood sign photo. Over in Santa Monica, the beach and pier are perfect for a sunset walk. For movie lovers, Universal Studios actually lets you tour working sets between thrill rides.

The best part of LA is how fast it flips moods. Hike Griffith Park in the morning, browse Rodeo Drive in the afternoon, and wrap the day with tacos in East LA.

Spring and fall are the best times to visit. You’ll get warm days, clearer skies, and fewer crowds, especially around the beaches and big attractions. There are lots of options for flights, with Alaska Airlines usually having the best prices if you book 6-8 weeks ahead. 

• Read Next: Budget-Friendly Places to Fly from LAX

7. Anchorage to Las Vegas ($299-$370 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta, Southwest (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for comfortable temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Nightlife lovers 🎭, foodies 🍽️, entertainment seekers 🎪

Las Vegas isn’t just about gambling your money away. It’s this bizarre adult playground in the middle of the desert. The city constantly reinvents itself with shows and experiences you can’t find anywhere else.

The Las Vegas Strip is ridiculous in the best way possible. One minute you’re seeing the Bellagio Fountains dance to music, the next you’re riding to the top of a half-sized Eiffel Tower. The over-the-top hotels are attractions themselves, from the canals of The Venetian to the pyramid at Luxor. When the neon gets overwhelming, Red Rock Canyon is just 30 minutes away with hiking trails and desert views that feel like another planet.

What makes Vegas cool is how it mixes complete absurdity with surprising sophistication. You can spend the morning losing money at slot machines, then have lunch at a restaurant run by a celebrity chef you’ve seen on TV. 

For flights, Southwest sometimes has crazy deals if you book a few months ahead. Avoid summer when it’s literally 115°F outside and you can’t walk more than 5 minutes without melting. March-May or September-November gives you perfect weather for exploring both the Strip and nearby nature.

8. Anchorage to Denver ($333-$390 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, United, Delta (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🌞 for ideal weather and outdoor activities
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor adventurers 🏔️, craft beer lovers 🍺, city explorers 🏙️

Denver is the kind of city where people finish a hike, grab a local IPA, and end up at a rooftop bar before the day’s even over. Sitting one mile above sea level, it blends mountain-town energy with a creative, city-friendly vibe.

Larimer Square is this charming block of Victorian buildings filled with awesome restaurants and shops, while the Denver Art Museum has this crazy angular building that’s worth seeing even if you’re not an art person. The RiNo district is where all the cool kids hang out, with former warehouses now housing breweries, food halls, and walls covered in street art. 

The Rocky Mountain National Park is mind-blowing with alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and elk just hanging out by the road. Denver’s special because it’s got this laid-back outdoorsy vibe without trying too hard. 

Alaska Airlines and United usually have the best flight deals if you book 2-3 months ahead. The weather’s best from late spring through early fall when hiking trails are open and patios are packed. Skip winter unless you’re heading to the ski resorts. 

• Read Next: Amazing Cabin Rentals in the Rocky Mountains

9. Anchorage to San Francisco ($258-$340 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 50 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta, United (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to October 🍂 for milder weather and fewer tourists
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, food lovers 🍽️, scenic explorers 🌁

San Francisco is a compact city with a massive personality. Each neighborhood feels like its own world, and every hill gives you a new photo op.

The Golden Gate Bridge is way more impressive in person than in photos, and walking across it gives you amazing views of the city skyline. Alcatraz is actually worth the touristy vibes, and the audio tour is surprisingly great with stories from former inmates and guards. Don’t miss wandering through Chinatown’s colorful alleys (the oldest in North America), grabbing sourdough bread from Boudin Bakery, or exploring Golden Gate Park which is bigger and arguably cooler than NYC’s Central Park.

Late spring and early fall offer sunshine and smaller crowds. Alaska Airlines runs the most direct flights and often drops fares under $300 if you’re flexible. Just avoid peak summer when the city’s famous fog, lovingly called Karl, tends to roll in and block the views.

10. Anchorage to Phoenix ($316-$390 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta, American Airlines (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April 🌵 for comfortable temperatures and outdoor activities
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor adventurers 🥾, golf lovers 🏌️‍♀️, winter sun seekers ☀️

Phoenix feels like summer on demand. Surrounded by red rock peaks and towering saguaros, it’s the kind of place where you can hike in the morning and sip poolside drinks by afternoon.

Camelback Mountain gives you killer views after a challenging hike that makes you feel like you’ve earned your margarita later. The Desert Botanical Garden shows off crazy plants that somehow thrive in the desert, especially magical during their nighttime light displays. For something more cultural, the Heard Museum does an amazing job showcasing Native American art and history without the usual touristy nonsense.

Phoenix is a solid winter escape when Anchorage is buried in snow. American Airlines often has good fares through its Phoenix hub, especially if you book a month or two in advance. Avoid summer unless you enjoy 115-degree pavement. Late fall through early spring delivers perfect t-shirt weather and plenty of sun.

11. Anchorage to Honolulu ($511-$590 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Delta (4+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌺 and September to November 🌴 for fewer crowds and better deals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, surfers 🏄‍♀️, island adventurers 🌋

There’s a reason people visit Honolulu and start checking rental prices. This place gets under your skin in the best way. Between the laid-back vibe, the salty air, and that constant smell of plumeria, it’s hard to imagine going back to reality.

Waikiki Beach is busy, but it’s also classic. The surf is perfect for first-timers, and Diamond Head gives the whole scene a cinematic feel. Hike to the top or just admire it over a cold drink at sunset. For something deeper, visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, one of the most moving sites on the island.

If you want to slow things down, head to the North Shore. Sea turtles nap in the sand, roadside trucks serve garlic shrimp straight off the grill, and the waves attract the best surfers on the planet when winter rolls in.

Hawaiian Airlines typically offers the most comfortable nonstop flights from Anchorage. Book one to two months ahead for the best deals. Travel between April and June or September through November to score mellow crowds, warm weather, and lower fares.

12. Anchorage to Chicago ($319-$380 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 6 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, United (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🌿 for ideal weather and outdoor festivals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Architecture lovers 🏙️, foodies 🍕, cultural explorers 🎭

Chicago is a city that doesn’t try to impress you, it just does. The city gives off these confident, no-nonsense Midwest vibes while secretly housing some of the best architecture, food, and culture in America.

Those architecture boat tours on the Chicago River are actually worth every penny. You’ll learn why this city is basically an open-air museum of skyscrapers designed by famous architects. The Bean (officially called Cloud Gate) in Millennium Park is weirdly mesmerizing in person, reflecting the skyline in its curved surface. 

When it comes to flights, United and American both hub through Chicago and often have deals if you book 6-8 weeks out. The city transforms completely with the seasons. Summer brings beaches along Lake Michigan (yes, real beaches with sand), while fall delivers perfect walking weather with changing leaves in parks. Skip the brutal winter unless you enjoy Arctic-level winds. 

13. Anchorage to Dallas ($232 roundtrip

Anchoring for an adventure? Well, saddle up because one of the cheap destinations from Anchorage is none other than the Big D – Dallas, Texas! If you’re eyeing the cheapest cities to fly from Anchorage, Dallas has you covered. A city that effortlessly blends modern sophistication with genuine Texas hospitality, it’s a place that’ll make your heart skip a beat.

Get your boots on the ground at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), a sprawling hub that stands as a testament to Texas’s “everything is bigger” mantra. For the savviest of travelers hunting for cheap flights from MRI, American Airlines offers smooth non-stop services, ensuring you hit the ground running.

But when should you pack your cowboy hat and make the journey? Late spring and early fall are prime, my friends! Dodge the Texan summer heat and score those cheap places to travel from Anchorage. Dallas shines brightest during these times, and trust me, you’d want a comfortable climate when diving into its rich tapestry of activities.

Dallas isn’t just cowboy boots and rodeos. Delve deep into the arts district, one of the largest urban arts districts in the US. Savor a symphony, dance under the skyline at Klyde Warren Park, or live history at the Sixth Floor Museum. And let’s not forget the mouth-watering Tex-Mex and barbecue!

If you’re pondering where is the cheapest place to fly from Anchorage, Dallas beckons. With its blend of cultural marvels and southern warmth, it’s a destination that promises memories as big as Texas itself!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Anchorage

Looking to expand your knowledge about the cheapest destinations from Anchorage? Here are some common questions I get a lot about cheap flights from Anchorage to anywhere.

What are some of the cheapest destinations from Anchorage?

Popular budget-friendly destinations include Seattle, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, Vancouver, and more. These cities often offer great deals on airfare from Anchorage.

How do I find the cheapest flights from Anchorage to anywhere?

Utilize flight comparison websites, set up fare alerts, and be flexible with your travel dates to get the best deals.

Which airlines offer the cheapest flights from ANC?

Airlines like Alaska Airlines, Delta, and Ravn Alaska often have competitive rates. However, always compare prices before booking.

When is the best time to book to get cheap flights from Anchorage?

Booking 4-6 weeks in advance often gets you the best rates. Also, consider traveling during off-peak seasons for cheaper fares.

Are there any non-stop cheap flights from MRI?

Yes, several airlines offer non-stop flights from Merrill Field Airport (MRI) to various destinations. It’s best to check with the airlines directly for the latest routes and prices.

Do prices fluctuate a lot for flights departing from Anchorage?

Like all flight routes, prices can vary based on demand, season, and promotions. Always book in advance and be on the lookout for airline sales.

How can I stay updated on the cheapest places to fly from ANC?

Consider subscribing to airline newsletters, setting up fare alerts on travel platforms, and joining frequent flyer programs.

Which days are typically cheaper for flying out of Anchorage?

Midweek flights, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to be cheaper compared to weekend flights.

Do last-minute flights from Anchorage offer good deals?

While last-minute deals can sometimes be found, it’s generally more cost-effective to book in advance. Last-minute deals are more unpredictable.

Are package deals, combining flights and hotels, a good way to save?

Absolutely! Many travel agencies and platforms offer package deals that can be more affordable than booking flights and accommodations separately.