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

Should you visit Pensacola or Cherokee?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pensacola and Cherokee can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a fun-filled, active, and entertaining beach town. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a genuine, fascinating, and cultural town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Pensacola and Cherokee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Pensacola or Cherokee?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pensacola. Although Pensacola and Cherokee are popular destinations, Pensacola has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pensacola is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Cherokee attracts visitors for its hiking. Pensacola is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. It is also well known for Gulf Islands National Seashore. Cherokee is famous for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Pensacola different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pensacola
Cherokee

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Pensacola and Cherokee.

Pensacola offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cherokee. 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 Pensacola or Cherokee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pensacola
Cherokee

Pensacola 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, Pensacola makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

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 Pensacola or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Pensacola
Cherokee

Pensacola is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

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 Pensacola or Cherokee Better for Resorts?

Pensacola
Cherokee

Pensacola is notable for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Pensacola is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


Is Pensacola or Cherokee Better for Beaches?

Pensacola
Cherokee

Pensacola is an amazing beach town to visit for its beaches. However, Cherokee is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Pensacola are among the best in the world. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Is Pensacola or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Pensacola
Cherokee

Cherokee is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its hiking trails.

Cherokee is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Cherokee?

Pensacola
Cherokee

Both Pensacola and Cherokee are nice shopping destinations.

Pensacola offers some nice shopping areas. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

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.


Is Pensacola or Cherokee Better for Families?

Pensacola
Cherokee

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Pensacola or Cherokee.

Pensacola is a very kid-friendly beach town. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

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.

Is Pensacola or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Pensacola
Cherokee

Both Pensacola and Cherokee are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Pensacola is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

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.

Is Pensacola or Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pensacola
Cherokee

Cherokee is very good for backpackers. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cherokee is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Pensacola is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget-friendly places to stay, particularly away from the beach.


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

Pensacola
Cherokee

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

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 quite limited in Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Pensacola or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Pensacola
Cherokee

Pensacola and Cherokee both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Pensacola is generally not very walkable. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable beach 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 Pensacola Worth Visiting? and Is Cherokee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Pensacola?

How long in Pensacola or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Pensacola or Cherokee. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Pensacola due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pensacola, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cherokee.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cherokee than Pensacola 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 Pensacola or Cherokee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pensacola 3-7 
    Cherokee 2-4

One day in Pensacola or Cherokee?

The beach town of Pensacola 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Cherokee. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Pensacola or Cherokee?

Pensacola is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the genuine destination of Cherokee. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Pensacola or Cherokee?

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

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the genuine town of Cherokee. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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.

A week in Pensacola or Cherokee?

Pensacola is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pensacola has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Cherokee is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cherokee or Pensacola?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pensacola is $198, 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 Pensacola and Cherokee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pensacola $115
    Cherokee $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pensacola $230
    Cherokee $316
Compare Hotels in Pensacola and Cherokee

Looking for a hotel in Pensacola 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 Pensacola


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: Pensacola Hotel Prices and Cherokee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pensacola $64
    Cherokee -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Pensacola

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Pensacola:


  • Boca Grande Causeway Toll
    $5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pensacola

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Pensacola:

  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Pensacola - Arrival Private Transfer: $55
  • Pensacola to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Destin, FL - Arrival Private Transfer: $71
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Pensacola - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Destin, FL - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Pensacola or Cherokee?

Prices for flights to both Cherokee and Pensacola 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
    Pensacola $48
    Cherokee $16
Typical Food Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Two Ice Creams
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pensacola

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Pensacola.

  • Seville Stroll Food Tour: $72

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pensacola $13
    Cherokee -
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Bike Rental
    $16

Tours and Activities in Pensacola

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pensacola are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pensacola by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pensacola by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Public Dolphin & Scenic Bay Sightseeing Cruise, Pensacola FL: $30
  • Penscola Most Haunted: Ghost Tour and Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Ghosts and Graveyard Tour of Pensacola: $34
  • Hop-on Hop-off Tour in Pensacola : $35
  • Frisky Mermaid Public Dolphin + Sightseeing Cruise Up to 49 Pax: $37
  • Pensacola Beach Jolly Dolphin Cruise and Scenic Bay Tour: $39
  • Pensacola Shared Trolley Ghost and Mystery Tour: $45
  • Seville Haunted Luncheon and Ghost Tour: $50
  • Land Paddle Tour in Pensacola: $50
  • Seville Quarter Haunted Ghost Tour, Investigation, and Luncheon: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pensacola $44
    Cherokee -

Sample the Local Flavors in Pensacola

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

  • Walking Pub Tour : $21


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


Which is Bigger, Pensacola or Cherokee?

Pensacola has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Pensacola 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 Pensacola or Cherokee?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Pensacola or Cherokee in the Summer?

Both Cherokee and Pensacola are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pensacola this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Pensacola is generally around the same temperature as Cherokee. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 82°F (28°C), and Cherokee fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. It's quite rainy in Pensacola. In July, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Cherokee. Pensacola gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Pensacola or Cherokee in the Autumn?

Both Cherokee and Pensacola during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Pensacola for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Cherokee in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Pensacola is a little warmer than Cherokee in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Cherokee fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pensacola. Pensacola usually gets more rain in October than Cherokee. Pensacola gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pensacola 69°F (21°C) 
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Cherokee in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pensacola and Cherokee. Many visitors come to Pensacola in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cherokee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cherokee can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Pensacola is much warmer than Cherokee. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pensacola in January average around 51°F (10°C), and Cherokee averages at about 40°F (5°C).

Cherokee receives a lot of rain in the winter. Pensacola gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Pensacola usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cherokee. Pensacola gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pensacola 51°F (10°C) 
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Cherokee in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pensacola as well as Cherokee. Most visitors come to Pensacola for the beaches during these months.

In April, Pensacola is generally a little warmer than Cherokee. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 67°F (20°C), and Cherokee fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Pensacola usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cherokee. Pensacola gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Pensacola is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pensacola 67°F (20°C) 
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Cherokee and Pensacola

Pensacola Cherokee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)