A Travel Price Comparison for North Carolina Charlotte vs. Cherokee for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Charlotte or Cherokee?

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 Charlotte and Cherokee can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. 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.

Charlotte and Cherokee: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Cherokee?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charlotte than Cherokee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charlotte is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Cherokee is more popular for its hiking. Cherokee is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. Also, Charlotte is famous for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

How is Charlotte different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Charlotte
Cherokee

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Cherokee and Charlotte.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlotte. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Cherokee is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Charlotte or Cherokee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charlotte
Cherokee

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Charlotte and Cherokee.

Charlotte is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Cherokee offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Charlotte or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Cherokee

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

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 Charlotte or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Charlotte
Cherokee

Cherokee is great for hiking. However, Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Cherokee?

Charlotte
Cherokee

If you're looking to go shopping, Charlotte and Cherokee both offer plenty of notable spots.

Charlotte has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Cherokee is a great destination for shopping. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Charlotte or Cherokee Better for Families?

Charlotte
Cherokee

Cherokee is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cherokee. 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.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Charlotte or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Cherokee

Cherokee is great for couples. Also, Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.


Is Charlotte or Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Charlotte
Cherokee

Cherokee is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte is not a good destination for backpackers.

Cherokee is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Charlotte is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a backpacker destination, there are some cheaper motels that budget travelers can stay at.

Is Charlotte or Cherokee Better for Students?

Charlotte
Cherokee

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for students. However, Cherokee is not popular with students.

Charlotte is a good city to visit for students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Cherokee is not popular with students.

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

Charlotte
Cherokee

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Charlotte has a few public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is mostly 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 Charlotte or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Cherokee

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

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Charlotte Worth Visiting? and Is Cherokee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Charlotte or Cherokee. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cherokee due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlotte, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cherokee.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Charlotte or Cherokee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Cherokee 2-4

One day in Charlotte or Cherokee?

The city of Charlotte offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Cherokee. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

A weekend in Charlotte or Cherokee?

Charlotte 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 Charlotte, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and food around the fascinating destination of Cherokee. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Charlotte or Cherokee?

Charlotte 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the genuine town of Cherokee. 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.

A week in Charlotte or Cherokee?

Charlotte 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.

Cherokee 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.


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, Cherokee or Charlotte?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $191, 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 Charlotte and Cherokee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Cherokee $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Cherokee $316
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Cherokee

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte 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 Charlotte


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: Charlotte Hotel Prices and Cherokee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Cherokee -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Arrival Private Transfer: $67
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $132
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $132
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlotte or Cherokee?

Prices for flights to both Cherokee and Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $46
    Cherokee $16
Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

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


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charlotte $43
    Cherokee -

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Charlotte by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Self-Guided City Highlights Audio Tour: $12
  • Uptown A Self-Guided Audio Tour to the Heart of Queen City: $12
  • Uptown Funk: 1 Hour Guided Walking Tour of Charlotte: $15
  • UPTOWN AT SUNDOWN: 1 Hour Guided Arts Walking Tour in Charlotte: $15
  • UPTOWN FUNK: 1 Hour Guided Historical Walking Tour in Charlotte: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Charlotte by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sea Life Charlotte Concord Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25
  • Queen City Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlotte $20
    Cherokee -

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Original Charlotte Brewery Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $125
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


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


Which is Bigger, Charlotte or Cherokee?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Charlotte 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 Charlotte 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 Charlotte or Cherokee in the Summer?

Both Cherokee and Charlotte during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Charlotte is around the same temperature as Cherokee. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charlotte in July average around 81°F (27°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 Charlotte. In the summer, Charlotte often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cherokee. Charlotte gets 289 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 Charlotte. Charlotte usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Cherokee. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C) 
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Cherokee in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlotte and Cherokee. Many travelers come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Cherokee in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Charlotte is generally around the same temperature as Cherokee. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 63°F (17°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 Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cherokee during autumn. Charlotte gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cherokee. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Cherokee in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Charlotte as well as Cherokee. Many visitors come to Charlotte in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cherokee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cherokee can be very cold during winter. Charlotte is a little warmer than Cherokee in the winter. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 42°F (6°C) in January, and Cherokee fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Charlotte often gets more sunshine than Cherokee. Charlotte gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. Charlotte usually gets less rain in January than Cherokee. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C) 
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Cherokee in the Spring?

Both Cherokee and Charlotte are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Charlotte for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Charlotte is around the same temperature as Cherokee. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charlotte in April average around 63°F (17°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 Charlotte. Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cherokee during spring. Charlotte gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 263 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cherokee. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Cherokee and Charlotte

Charlotte Cherokee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Feb 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
May 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)