A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Cherokee for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg and Cherokee can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Saint Petersburg 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 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 Saint Petersburg or Cherokee?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Petersburg. Although Saint Petersburg and Cherokee are both popular with visitors, Saint Petersburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Cherokee is known for its hiking. Saint Petersburg is more touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. It is also home to St. Pete Beach. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Cherokee?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

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 Saint Petersburg or Cherokee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

Saint Petersburg 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, Saint Petersburg makes for a great culinary experience. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

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 Saint Petersburg or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a 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 Saint Petersburg or Cherokee Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

Saint Petersburg is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Saint Petersburg has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Petersburg or Cherokee Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

Saint Petersburg is an amazing coastal city to visit for its beaches. However, Cherokee is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Saint Petersburg are among the best in the world. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

Cherokee is great for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Cherokee for the hiking trails. 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Cherokee?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

If you're looking to go shopping, Saint Petersburg and Cherokee both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Cherokee offers some nice shopping areas. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.


Is Saint Petersburg or Cherokee Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

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

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Cherokee is a very kid-friendly coastal city. 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 Saint Petersburg or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

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

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

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.

Is Saint Petersburg or Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

Cherokee is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.


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

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

Saint Petersburg and Cherokee both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

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.

Is Saint Petersburg or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Cherokee

Saint Petersburg and Cherokee are decent when it comes to walkability.

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint Petersburg or Cherokee. In our opinion, Saint Petersburg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Cherokee. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Saint Petersburg or Cherokee?

The coastal city of Saint Petersburg 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 museums and food around the fascinating destination of Cherokee. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Cherokee?

Saint Petersburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal 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 Saint Petersburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find food and shopping around the genuine town of Cherokee. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Saint Petersburg or Cherokee?

Saint Petersburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches 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.

Cherokee is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Cherokee?

Saint Petersburg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 coastal city offers something for everyone.

Cherokee is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cherokee or Saint Petersburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $204, 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 Saint Petersburg and Cherokee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Cherokee $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Cherokee $316
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Cherokee

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Cherokee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Cherokee -

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Cherokee?

Prices for flights to both Cherokee and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $49
    Cherokee $16
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

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


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Cherokee -

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Cherokee -


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


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Cherokee?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg or Cherokee in the Summer?

Both Cherokee and Saint Petersburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint Petersburg is around the same temperature as Cherokee in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Cherokee fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the summer, Saint Petersburg often gets less sunshine than Cherokee. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 294 hours of full sun.

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in July than Cherokee. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Cherokee in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Cherokee. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Cherokee in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Cherokee. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Petersburg in October average around 76°F (24°C), and Cherokee averages at about 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Cherokee during autumn. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Petersburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cherokee. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Cherokee in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Cherokee. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg 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 January, Saint Petersburg is generally much warmer than Cherokee. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 59°F (15°C), and Cherokee fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the winter, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Cherokee. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in January than Cherokee. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Cherokee in the Spring?

Both Cherokee and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches during these months.

Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Cherokee in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Cherokee fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Cherokee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Cherokee during spring. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 263 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Cherokee. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Cherokee and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Cherokee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)