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

Should you visit Cherokee or Philadelphia?

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

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

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Cherokee and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Philadelphia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Cherokee and Philadelphia are popular destinations, Philadelphia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cherokee attracts visitors for its hiking. Cherokee is famous for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is Cherokee different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia that are not to be missed. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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 Cherokee or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is notable for theatre. However, Cherokee is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Cherokee is not a theatre destination.

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

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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, Philadelphia makes for a great culinary experience. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia Better for Music?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is notable for live music. However, Cherokee is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Cherokee is not a live music destination.

Is Cherokee or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Cherokee does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Philadelphia to see the historical old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Cherokee does not have a historic old town.

Is Cherokee or Philadelphia Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Cherokee is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Philadelphia?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is notable for shopping. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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 Cherokee or Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Cherokee does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Cherokee does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cherokee or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Cherokee does not offer Christmas markets.

Philadelphia has Christmas markets worth visiting. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Cherokee does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Cherokee or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Cherokee and Philadelphia are both superb 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, Philadelphia is very family-friendly. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Is Cherokee or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Cherokee is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Philadelphia is a good town for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Is Cherokee or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Both Cherokee and Philadelphia are nice destinations 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.

Philadelphia is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.


Is Cherokee or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia is a great city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Cherokee is not popular with students.

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

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is notable for its public transit. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Philadelphia can move around easily with public transportation. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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 Cherokee or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Philadelphia on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Philadelphia?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Cherokee or Philadelphia?

In Cherokee, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this genuine town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Philadelphia 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.

A weekend in Cherokee or Philadelphia?

Cherokee is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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

Five days in Cherokee or Philadelphia?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Cherokee. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums 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 Philadelphia?

Cherokee is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums 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, Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia is $188. 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 Philadelphia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Philadelphia $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Philadelphia $238
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Philadelphia

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Philadelphia? 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 Philadelphia


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 Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Philadelphia $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $95
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $131
  • Philadelphia City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $135
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $353

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Philadelphia?

Prices for flights to both Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $49

Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Best of Philly Food Tour: $55
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour-Small Group Walking Tour: $59
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $66
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $84
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Philadelphia $28

Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.40
  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $8.99
  • Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Philadelphia In App Walking Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Philadelphia by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $12
  • National Liberty Museum Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Fantastic Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Philadelphia $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120


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


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

Both Philadelphia 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. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

In the summer, Cherokee is around the same temperature as Philadelphia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cherokee in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 77°F (25°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cherokee. In the summer, Cherokee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually gets more rain in July than Philadelphia. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Philadelphia 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

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

In October, Cherokee is generally a little warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 63°F (17°C), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cherokee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia during autumn. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Philadelphia 56°F (14°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Philadelphia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Philadelphia. Many travelers come to Cherokee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Philadelphia can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cherokee. Cherokee is much warmer than Philadelphia in the winter. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Cherokee often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun.

Cherokee receives a lot of rain in the winter. Cherokee usually gets more rain in January than Philadelphia. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Philadelphia in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Cherokee is a little warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cherokee in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during spring. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Philadelphia 52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Cherokee

Cherokee Philadelphia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 42°F (6°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 76°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 56°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)