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

Should you visit Cherokee or Anchorage?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Anchorage, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Cherokee travel costs.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a cultural, artsy, and nature-oriented city. You'll find world class beauty in Anchorage as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Anchorage travel costs.

Cherokee and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Anchorage?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Anchorage. Although Cherokee and Anchorage are both popular with visitors, Anchorage has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Anchorage is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. It is also home to Chugach State Park. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
Anchorage

Both Cherokee and Anchorage have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Cherokee is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


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

Cherokee
Anchorage

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cherokee and Anchorage can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Cherokee offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Anchorage has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Cherokee or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Anchorage

Evening events are decent in both Cherokee and Anchorage.

Most people don't head to Cherokee specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Cherokee or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Anchorage

Anchorage is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Anchorage draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cherokee. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.


Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Anchorage?

Cherokee
Anchorage

Both Cherokee and Anchorage are good shopping destinations.

Cherokee is a great destination for shopping. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Anchorage. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Cherokee or Anchorage More Beautiful?

Cherokee
Anchorage

Anchorage is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Anchorage as well. The city offers access to spectacular beauty. It's surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains, breathtaking glaciers, and vast wilderness.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cherokee or Anchorage Better for Families?

Cherokee
Anchorage

Cherokee is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Anchorage is a family-friendly town. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.


Is Cherokee or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Anchorage

Cherokee and Anchorage are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Cherokee is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Anchorage makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Is Cherokee or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Anchorage

Both Cherokee and Anchorage are good 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.

Anchorage is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

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

Cherokee
Anchorage

Cherokee is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city 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 Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.


Is Cherokee or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Anchorage

Cherokee and Anchorage both are decent when exploring on foot.

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

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable town. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cherokee and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cherokee than in Anchorage. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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


  • How many days in Cherokee or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Cherokee or Anchorage?

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.

The beautiful city of Anchorage offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cherokee or Anchorage?

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.

Anchorage 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Anchorage, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Cherokee or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural 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.

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking 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 Anchorage?

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.

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


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


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Cherokee?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cherokee Prices
    USA Prices
    Anchorage Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Anchorage $228

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $228. 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 Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Anchorage? 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 Anchorage


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 Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • One Way Private Transfer: $10
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
  • Anchorage to Whittier Direct Transfer Tour: $75
  • ANC Airport to City Centre Private Transfer: $79
  • Private Transfer Alaska Anchorage Airport ANC to Anchorage City: $180
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $227
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $227
  • Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • Matanuska Glacier Hike with Transfers: $299

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage 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 $27
    Anchorage $87

Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

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


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage

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

  • City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour - Winter & Summer: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Anchorage $30

Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

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


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

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

  • Anchorage Museum General Admission Ticket: $25
  • Anchorage Trolley Tour: $25
  • Alaska Native Heritage Center Admission Ticket: $30
  • Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage's Winter City Tour = Samples + Stops + WildLife: $59
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Choc Factory Samplings: $59
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Winter - Anchorage All Around City Tour: $69
  • Alaska: Ladies Only Snowshoe Adventure: $75
  • Anchorage to Whittier Wildlife Adventure: $79
  • Anchorage to Seward Wildlife Adventure: $99

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $110
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179
  • Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey, Wine Tasting: $310


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Anchorage, 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 Anchorage?

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 Cherokee or Anchorage in the Summer?

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

Cherokee is much warmer than Anchorage in the summer. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In July, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Cherokee during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Anchorage in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the autumn. In the autumn, Cherokee is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cherokee in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Anchorage averages at about 35°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Cherokee. In the autumn, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Cherokee usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Anchorage in the Winter?

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

Anchorage can be very cold during winter. Cherokee can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cherokee is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 40°F (5°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Anchorage. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. Cherokee is much warmer than Anchorage in the spring. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In the spring, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Cherokee usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Cherokee

Cherokee Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)