A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. Cherokee for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Atlanta or Cherokee?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Cherokee, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a sprawling, suburban, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a fascinating, cultural, and genuine town. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Atlanta and Cherokee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
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 popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Cherokee?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlanta than Cherokee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlanta is better known for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cherokee is more popular for its hiking. Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. Also, Atlanta is famous for the Georgia Aquarium. Cherokee is well known for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Atlanta different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Cherokee?

Atlanta
Cherokee

Atlanta is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Atlanta that are not to be missed. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Cherokee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.


Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Cherokee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta
Cherokee

Atlanta is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Atlanta makes for a great culinary experience. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Cherokee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Atlanta or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Cherokee

Atlanta is notable for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Atlanta has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cherokee. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Is Atlanta or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Atlanta
Cherokee

Cherokee is a great town for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Cherokee for the hiking trails. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Cherokee?

Atlanta
Cherokee

Atlanta is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Atlanta is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cherokee. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Atlanta or Cherokee Better for Families?

Atlanta
Cherokee

Atlanta and Cherokee are both superb destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Atlanta. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Cherokee is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.

Is Atlanta or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Cherokee

Cherokee is a great town for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Cherokee is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.


Is Atlanta or Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Cherokee

For backpackers, both Atlanta and Cherokee are notable places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Cherokee is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Is Atlanta or Cherokee Better for Students?

Atlanta
Cherokee

Atlanta is notable for students. However, Cherokee is not popular with students.

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Cherokee is not popular with students.

Is Atlanta or Cherokee Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlanta
Cherokee

Atlanta and Cherokee both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.


Is Atlanta or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Cherokee

Atlanta is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable city. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Cherokee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Atlanta or Cherokee. In our opinion, Atlanta has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Atlanta than Cherokee. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Cherokee 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 Atlanta.


  • How many days in Atlanta or Cherokee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Cherokee 2-4

One day in Atlanta or Cherokee?

Atlanta is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Cherokee, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Atlanta or Cherokee?

Atlanta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Atlanta, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Cherokee, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cherokee has to offer.


Five days in Atlanta or Cherokee?

Atlanta is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cherokee is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Atlanta or Cherokee?

Atlanta is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cherokee. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Cherokee. 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.


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, Cherokee or Atlanta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $173, while the average daily cost in Cherokee is $174. 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 Atlanta and Cherokee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Cherokee $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Cherokee $316
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Cherokee

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Cherokee? 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 Atlanta


Hotels in Cherokee


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: Atlanta Hotel Prices and Cherokee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Cherokee -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

Also for Atlanta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Atlanta International Airport: Transfer to Atlanta City: $70
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs RoundTrip PrivateTransfer: $75
  • Private One-way Transfer from Atlanta Airport to Atlanta: $78
  • Atlanta Hartsfield/Jackson Airport Transfer To or From: $90
  • Private Transfer from Atlanta (ATL) Airport to Atlanta City: $97
  • One Way Hartsfield-Jackson ATL Airport Transfer Svc: $100
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Arrival Private Transfer: $101
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Business Car: $123
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV/Van: $138
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL by Luxury SUV: $138
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Luxury SUV: $138

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Cherokee?

Prices for flights to both Cherokee and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $43
    Cherokee $16
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

For Atlanta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • 2 Hour Holiday Market Food Tour with Snowman Biscuit Class: $70
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $75
  • Walking Food Tour: $93
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Food Tour of Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline: $99
  • Atlanta Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $109
  • Private Truist Park and Battery Braves Atlanta Food Tour: $129
  • Truist Park & The Battery Atlanta Food Tour: $129
  • Prohibition Themed Downtown Atlanta Progressive Dinner: $275

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Cherokee -

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Atlanta.

  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $8.50
  • Atlanta Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Sights & Highlights Walking tour: $11
  • Atlanta Braves Baseball Game Ticket at Truist Park: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Decatur GA: $15
  • SkyView Ferris Wheel Ticket: $18
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $18
  • World of Coca-Cola Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry: $23
  • Skip the Ticket Line: World of Coca-Cola Admission in Atlanta: $23
  • Amazing Atlanta Amazing Race & Tour: $24
  • Hauntings, Ghouls, and Phantoms Walking Tour: $24
  • LEGO® Discovery Center Atlanta Admission Ticket: $28

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Cherokee -

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • ATLANTA Yes, Queen! Drag Queen Pub Crawl : $40
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $120
  • North Georgia Mountains Two Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $155
  • North Georgia Mountains Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $170


When comparing the travel costs between Atlanta and Cherokee, we can see that Cherokee 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 Atlanta Expensive? and Is Cherokee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Cherokee?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Cherokee, 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.


When is the best time to visit Atlanta or Cherokee?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Atlanta or Cherokee in the Summer?

Both Cherokee and Atlanta during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cherokee this time of year.

In the summer, Atlanta is around the same temperature as Cherokee. Typically, the summer temperatures in Atlanta in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Cherokee averages at about 81°F (27°C).

In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Atlanta. In the summer, Atlanta often gets less sunshine than Cherokee. Atlanta gets 271 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 294 hours of full sun.

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually gets more rain in July than Cherokee. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlanta 82°F (28°C) 
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Cherokee in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and Cherokee. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Atlanta is generally around the same temperature as Cherokee. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 66°F (19°C), and Cherokee fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In Atlanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cherokee during autumn. Atlanta gets 222 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Cherokee. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlanta 66°F (19°C) 
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Cherokee in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Cherokee. Many travelers come to Atlanta for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Cherokee in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cherokee can get quite cold in the winter. Atlanta is much warmer than Cherokee in the winter. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and Cherokee fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Atlanta often gets more sunshine than Cherokee. Atlanta gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the winter. Atlanta usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Cherokee. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlanta 45°F (7°C) 
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Cherokee in the Spring?

Both Cherokee and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Atlanta is around the same temperature as Cherokee. Typically, the spring temperatures in Atlanta in April average around 65°F (18°C), and Cherokee averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Cherokee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cherokee during spring. Atlanta gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 263 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. In April, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Cherokee. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlanta 65°F (18°C) 
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Cherokee and Atlanta

Atlanta Cherokee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Feb 49°F (9°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 57°F (14°C) 5.8 inches (147 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 66°F (19°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 48°F (9°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)