A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cherokee vs. Hilo for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cherokee or Hilo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Hilo, 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 fascinating, cultural, and genuine town. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Hilo

Hilo is a authentic, laid back, and mellow town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Cherokee and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cherokee or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hilo than Cherokee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hilo is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cherokee is more popular for its shopping. Hilo is more touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Also, Hilo is famous for Akaka Falls State Park. Cherokee is well known for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilo 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 Hilo?

Both Cherokee and Hilo have notable 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.

Hilo offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

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

Hilo 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, Hilo makes for a great culinary experience. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Cherokee or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are respectable in both Cherokee and Hilo.

Most people don't head to Cherokee specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Hilo. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Cherokee or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is a moderate town for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Is Cherokee or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a moderate town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cherokee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Cherokee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cherokee or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Hilo has a beach worth visiting. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Is Cherokee or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Hilo draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Hilo?

Cherokee is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Cherokee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Cherokee or Hilo Better for Families?

Cherokee and Hilo are both very good destinations for the whole family.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hilo is very family-friendly. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Is Cherokee or Hilo Better for Couples?

Cherokee and Hilo are both very good to visit as a couple.

Cherokee is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Hilo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

Is Cherokee or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is notable for backpackers. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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

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

Both Cherokee and Hilo offer respectable 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Cherokee or Hilo a more walkable city?

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

Hilo is somewhat walkable. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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 Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Hilo?

Both Cherokee and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Cherokee. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo 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 Hilo.

One day in Cherokee or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Cherokee. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful town of Hilo offers museums and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Cherokee or Hilo?

Cherokee is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hilo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cherokee or Hilo?

You'll find shopping and museums around the fascinating destination of Cherokee. This town offers something for everyone. 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.

Hilo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cherokee or Hilo?

The fascinating town of Cherokee offers museums and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Hilo is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hilo has to offer. This town 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cherokee and Hilo, we can see that Cherokee is more expensive. And not only is Hilo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hilo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hilo 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 Hilo.

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

Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Hilo, 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 Hilo?

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 Hilo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Hilo. Many visitors come to Cherokee in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cherokee is generally a little warmer than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 81°F (27°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In the summer, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Cherokee receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cherokee usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cherokee or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cherokee for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hilo because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cherokee is cooler than Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during autumn. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In October, Cherokee usually receives less rain than Hilo. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cherokee or Hilo in the Winter?

Both Hilo and Cherokee during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Cherokee because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

The weather in Cherokee can be very cold. In the winter, Cherokee is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cherokee in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Cherokee often gets less sunshine than Hilo. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cherokee or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and Hilo. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Cherokee is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 62°F (17°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Cherokee usually receives less rain than Hilo. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Cherokee