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

Should you visit Cherokee or Moab?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Moab, 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 cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Moab

Moab is a adventurous, active, and scenic town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Cherokee and Moab: 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Moab?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Moab. Although Cherokee and Moab are both popular with visitors, Moab has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Moab is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Cherokee is known for its museums. Moab is more touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. It is also home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Moab?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
Moab

Cherokee is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Moab is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Moab offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that will teach you about the geology and history. You can pop in the Moab Museum or the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch, as well as the galleries around town.


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

Cherokee
Moab

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cherokee and Moab can be difficult as they are each good 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.

Moab has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town has grown over the years and now you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants that serve decent food. There are steakhouses, pizzerias, and even a couple ice cream shops.

Is Cherokee or Moab Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Moab

Evening events are decent in both Cherokee and Moab.

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 Moab. The town has grown significantly and you'll find bars, taverns, and breweries where you can hang out in the evening, but it's still a quiet place with a laid back atmosphere.

Is Cherokee or Moab Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Moab

Moab 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, Moab draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The area is filled with hiking trails, both inside the nearby national parks as well as outside. Canyonlands National Park is large with impressive overlooks, while Arches National Park has fun hikes that take you by diverse arches and include many opportunities for scrambling. Outside of the park, hikers can visit Corona Arch or search for dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Tracks Trail.

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 Moab?

Cherokee
Moab

Both Cherokee and Moab are good 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 Moab. There are gift shops, places to buy outdoor equipment, and convenient stores around town. There are also a number of art galleries that sell local items or impressive photography.

Is Cherokee or Moab Better for Families?

Cherokee
Moab

Cherokee and Moab 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, Moab is very family-friendly. It's a world of outdoor adventures. You'll find river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many kid-friendly trails. There's also the Tracks Museum, where kids can learn about dinosaurs as well as swimming pools or swimming holes in the area.

Is Cherokee or Moab Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Moab

Cherokee and Moab 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.

Moab makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The area is filled with adventurous fun, with everything from world-class hikes to impressive rafting trips. The dramatic landscape provides the backdrop for a truly spectacular trip.


Is Cherokee or Moab Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Moab

Moab 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 Moab. The town has many campgrounds and even a few hostels. Arches National Park has only a few backcountry overnight camping sites. Terrain is rough and most areas aren't accessible by trail.

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 Moab Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cherokee
Moab

Cherokee is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Moab is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Moab. There are efforts to create a transportation program within town, but there are limited transportation options available. If you book a tour, they usually provide transportation.

Is Cherokee or Moab a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Moab

Cherokee and Moab both are decent when exploring on foot.

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

Moab is generally not a very walkable town. While it's possible to walk around within the town, most visitors don't come to visit they town, they come to explore the area. You'll need a car to access most points of interest in the area.


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

Should I spend more time in Moab or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Moab?

In either Cherokee or Moab, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Moab than Cherokee because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 2-5 days is enough time in Moab.

Families should spend more time in Cherokee than Moab. 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 Moab. 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 Moab 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 Moab.


  • How many days in Cherokee or Moab? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Moab 2-5

One day in Cherokee or Moab?

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 Moab offers shopping 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 Moab?

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.

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

Five days in Cherokee or Moab?

You'll find shopping and museums around the genuine 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.

Moab 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 Moab, 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 Moab?

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.

Moab is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Moab 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 Moab is $388. 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 Moab in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Moab $336
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Moab $672
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Moab

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Moab? 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 Moab


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 Moab Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Moab $17

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Moab?

Prices for flights to both Moab 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
    Moab $37

Typical Food Prices in Moab

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


  • Moab Brewery
    $42
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Moab

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

  • Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show: $99
  • Colorado River Sunset Boat Tour with Optional Dinner: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Moab $3.13

Typical Entertainment Prices in Moab

For Moab, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Slickrock Trail Pass
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Moab

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

  • La Sal Mountain Loop: Scenic Self-Driving App Tour: $8.99
  • La Sal Mountain Loop Scenic Drive: Half-Day Audio Driving Private Tour : $8.99
  • Canyonlands National Park: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Arches National Park: Driving Tour with Audio Guide: $8.99
  • La Sal Mountain: Scenic Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $12
  • Canyonlands National Park Self-Driving Tour: $13
  • Arches National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Explore Arches, Canyonlands & La Sal Audio Tour Guide: $19
  • Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks Self-Driving Bundle Tour: $25
  • Moab Giants Dinosaur Park and Museum Entrance Ticket: $28
  • Ultimate Utah Combo Self-Driving Audio Tour: $40
  • Utah: The Grand Circle Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle: $42

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Moab $66


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Moab?

Cherokee has a larger population, and is about 32% larger than the population of Moab. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Moab, 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.