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

Should you visit Cherokee or Detroit?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Detroit, 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.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a genuine, fascinating, and cultural town. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Cherokee and Detroit: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Detroit?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit. Although Cherokee and Detroit are popular destinations, Detroit has more sights and attractions for tourists. Detroit is very popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Cherokee attracts visitors for its hiking. Cherokee is more touristy than Detroit and is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also well known for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Cherokee different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cherokee
Detroit

Both Cherokee and Detroit have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.


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

Cherokee
Detroit

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cherokee and Detroit can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

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.

Detroit has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Cherokee or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Detroit

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

Detroit has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

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 Cherokee or Detroit Better for Music?

Cherokee
Detroit

Detroit is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Cherokee is not a live music destination.

Detroit is a world class music destination. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Cherokee is not a live music destination.


Is Cherokee or Detroit Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Detroit

Cherokee is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cherokee. 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.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Detroit?

Cherokee
Detroit

Both Cherokee and Detroit are nice shopping destinations.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Cherokee or Detroit Better for Families?

Cherokee
Detroit

Cherokee is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cherokee is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.


Is Cherokee or Detroit Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Detroit

Cherokee is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Cherokee makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Cherokee or Detroit Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Detroit

Cherokee is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cherokee. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

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

Cherokee
Detroit

Both Cherokee and Detroit offer reasonable public transit options.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.


Is Cherokee or Detroit a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Detroit

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

Detroit is somewhat walkable. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cherokee and Detroit. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cherokee than in Detroit. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 1-3 days is enough time in Detroit.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cherokee than Detroit 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 Cherokee or Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in Cherokee or Detroit?

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.

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

A weekend in Cherokee or Detroit?

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.

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


Five days in Cherokee or Detroit?

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.

Detroit is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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.

A week in Cherokee or Detroit?

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.

Detroit is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or Cherokee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $174, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $133. 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 Cherokee and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Detroit? 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 Cherokee


Hotels in Detroit


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: Cherokee Hotel Prices and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $131
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $189

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Cherokee 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
    Cherokee $16
    Detroit $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in Detroit

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

  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Self Guided "Detroit's Spirit and History" Solo Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Windsor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $11
  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cherokee and Detroit, we can see that Cherokee is more expensive. And not only is Detroit much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Detroit would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Detroit 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 Cherokee would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cherokee than you might in Detroit.

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


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Detroit, 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 Cherokee or Detroit?

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 Cherokee or Detroit in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Cherokee is a little warmer than Detroit. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cherokee in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Detroit averages at about 74°F (24°C).

In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cherokee. In the summer, Cherokee often gets less sunshine than Detroit. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually gets more rain in July than Detroit. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Detroit in the Autumn?

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

In October, Cherokee is generally a little warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 63°F (17°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during autumn. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Detroit. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Detroit in the Winter?

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

Detroit can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cherokee. Cherokee is much warmer than Detroit in the winter. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Detroit fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun.

Cherokee receives a lot of rain in the winter. Cherokee usually gets more rain in January than Detroit. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Detroit in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Cherokee is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cherokee in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Detroit averages at about 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Detroit. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during spring. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Detroit. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Cherokee

Cherokee Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)