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

Should you visit Jacksonville or Cherokee?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Jacksonville and Cherokee. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a under-rated, lively, and youthful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a fascinating, cultural, and genuine town. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Jacksonville and Cherokee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
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 Jacksonville or Cherokee?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jacksonville than Cherokee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jacksonville is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Cherokee is more popular for its hiking. Cherokee is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. Jacksonville is well known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. Also, Jacksonville is famous for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Jacksonville different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Jacksonville
Cherokee

Jacksonville is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Jacksonville can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

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

Jacksonville
Cherokee

Jacksonville 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, Jacksonville makes for a great culinary experience. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

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 Jacksonville or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Cherokee

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

Jacksonville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

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 Jacksonville or Cherokee Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Cherokee

Jacksonville is notable for its beaches. However, Cherokee is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Jacksonville. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.


Is Jacksonville or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Jacksonville
Cherokee

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

Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Cherokee?

Jacksonville
Cherokee

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

Jacksonville is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

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 Jacksonville or Cherokee Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Cherokee

Cherokee is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.


Is Jacksonville or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Cherokee

Cherokee is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Jacksonville or Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Cherokee

Jacksonville and Cherokee are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cherokee. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Is Jacksonville or Cherokee Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Cherokee

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

Jacksonville is a good city to visit for students. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Cherokee is not popular with students.


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

Jacksonville
Cherokee

Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville has a few public transit options. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

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 Jacksonville or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Cherokee

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

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Cherokee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Cherokee?

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

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

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


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

One day in Jacksonville or Cherokee?

The city of Jacksonville offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

In Cherokee, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fascinating 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.


A weekend in Jacksonville or Cherokee?

Jacksonville 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jacksonville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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.

Five days in Jacksonville or Cherokee?

Jacksonville 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating 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.

A week in Jacksonville or Cherokee?

Jacksonville is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cherokee or Jacksonville?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Jacksonville is $220, 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 Jacksonville and Cherokee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jacksonville $92
    Cherokee $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jacksonville $184
    Cherokee $316
Compare Hotels in Jacksonville and Cherokee

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville


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: Jacksonville Hotel Prices and Cherokee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Cherokee -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

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

  • Carnival Cruise Port to Jacksonville Airport (JAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $55
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Hyatt Place/ St. Johns Town Center: $164
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Amelia Island: $195
  • Carnival Cruise Port Transfer to Jacksonville: $336

Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Cherokee?

Prices for flights to both Cherokee and Jacksonville 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
    Jacksonville $96
    Cherokee $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jacksonville

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

  • 1 Hour of Chocolate Pizza Making Class in Jacksonville: $18

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Cherokee -

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

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

  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $6.00
  • Murray Hill Walking Mural Tour: $25
  • Downtown Fernandina Historical Walking Tour: $30
  • Jacksonville Ghosts and Ghouls Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • 1-Hour Escape Room Adventure: $41
  • Self-Guided Kayaking: Real Florida Adventure: $45
  • Self Guided Family Friendly Kayak Rental Experience Old Florida : $48
  • Eight Flags Road Tour: $50
  • Electric Bike Tour with Free Application for Navigation: $50
  • Guided Kayak Eco Tour: Real Florida Adventure: $55
  • Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek : $60

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

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

  • Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jacksonville and Cherokee, we can see that Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville Expensive? and Is Cherokee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Cherokee?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville or Cherokee in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Jacksonville is around the same temperature as Cherokee. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jacksonville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Cherokee averages at about 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In the summer, Jacksonville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cherokee. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 294 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. Jacksonville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jacksonville usually gets more rain in July than Cherokee. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jacksonville 82°F (28°C) 
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Cherokee in the Autumn?

Both Cherokee and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cherokee because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Jacksonville is generally a little warmer than Cherokee. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 70°F (21°C), and Cherokee fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Cherokee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cherokee during autumn. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cherokee. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jacksonville 70°F (21°C) 
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Cherokee in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Cherokee in the winter. Jacksonville is much warmer than Cherokee in the winter. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Cherokee fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Cherokee. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 134 hours of full sun.

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Jacksonville usually gets less rain in January than Cherokee. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jacksonville 53°F (12°C) 
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Cherokee in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Cherokee. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year.

In the spring, Jacksonville is a little warmer than Cherokee. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jacksonville in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Cherokee averages at about 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Cherokee during spring. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 263 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Jacksonville usually receives less rain than Cherokee. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jacksonville 68°F (20°C) 
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Cherokee and Jacksonville

Jacksonville Cherokee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)