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

Should you visit Cherokee or Beaver Creek?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Beaver Creek, 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Cherokee travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a charming, active, and adventurous town. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Cherokee and Beaver Creek: 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
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Beaver Creek?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaver Creek. Although Cherokee and Beaver Creek are both popular with visitors, Beaver Creek has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaver Creek is more popular for its skiing, theatre productions, food, and resorts, while Cherokee is known for its museums and attractions. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere It is also home to Beaver Creek Golf Club. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cherokee or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an amazing town to visit for snow skiing. However, Cherokee is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Beaver Creek is among the best in the world. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Cherokee is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cherokee or Beaver Creek?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Cherokee is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Cherokee or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good place to visit for theatre. However, Cherokee is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Cherokee is not a theatre destination.

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

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek 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, Beaver Creek makes for a great culinary experience. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

Cherokee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.


Is Cherokee or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Evening events are decent in both Cherokee and Beaver Creek.

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 Beaver Creek. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Cherokee or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

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

Beaver Creek has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Is Cherokee or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Cherokee and Beaver Creek are both places where visitors can find superb 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Beaver Creek. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.


Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Beaver Creek?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Both Cherokee and Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Cherokee or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Beaver Creek is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cherokee is very family-friendly. 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 Cherokee or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Cherokee and Beaver Creek are both superb 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.

Beaver Creek makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.


Is Cherokee or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Cherokee is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Beaver Creek is not known 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.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.

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

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek 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.

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.

Is Cherokee or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Beaver Creek

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

It is easy to get around Beaver Creek on foot. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Beaver Creek?

Both Cherokee and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Cherokee. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

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

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

One day in Cherokee or Beaver Creek?

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

The town of Beaver Creek offers skiing and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cherokee or Beaver Creek?

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.

Beaver Creek is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Five days in Cherokee or Beaver Creek?

You'll find food and shopping around the genuine 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.

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


A week in Cherokee or Beaver Creek?

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.

Beaver Creek is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaver Creek has to offer. This town 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, Beaver Creek 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
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $378. 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 Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Beaver Creek? 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 Beaver Creek


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 Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Beaver Creek $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek 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
    Beaver Creek $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Beaver Creek $53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Beaver Creek $35


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