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

Should you visit Cherokee or Chattanooga?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Chattanooga, 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 fascinating, cultural, and genuine town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food. See Cherokee travel costs.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a outdoorsy, thriving, and bustling city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Cherokee and Chattanooga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cherokee or Chattanooga?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chattanooga than Cherokee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cherokee is well known for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. Chattanooga is well known for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas. Also, Chattanooga is famous for Rock City.

How is Cherokee different from Chattanooga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Cherokee and Chattanooga have notable 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.

Chattanooga offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cherokee and Chattanooga can be difficult as they are each notable 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.

Chattanooga has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Cherokee or Chattanooga Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check 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 Cherokee or Chattanooga Better for Hiking?

Cherokee and Chattanooga are both places where visitors can find very good 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 Chattanooga. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Chattanooga?

Both Cherokee and Chattanooga are notable 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 Chattanooga. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Is Cherokee or Chattanooga Better for Families?

Cherokee is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cherokee is known to be 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.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Is Cherokee or Chattanooga Better for Couples?

Cherokee is a great destination for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Cherokee frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

Is Cherokee or Chattanooga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee is a popular place for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.

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

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

Visitors to Chattanooga can move around easily with public transportation. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

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 Chattanooga a more walkable city?

Chattanooga is notable for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

Chattanooga is very walkable. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

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 Chattanooga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chattanooga or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Chattanooga?

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

Families should spend more time in Cherokee than Chattanooga. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cherokee than Chattanooga 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.

One day in Cherokee or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural town of Cherokee. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Chattanooga offers food and shopping. 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 Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fascinating destination of Cherokee. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cherokee or Chattanooga?

The fascinating town of Cherokee offers museums and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Chattanooga 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.

A week in Cherokee or Chattanooga?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Cherokee. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Chattanooga is a great place to explore. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Chattanooga?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Chattanooga, 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 Chattanooga?

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 Chattanooga in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and Chattanooga. Many visitors come to Cherokee in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Chattanooga for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Chattanooga during summer. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cherokee usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cherokee or Chattanooga in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Chattanooga. Most visitors come to Cherokee for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Cherokee is around the same temperature as Chattanooga in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In the autumn, Cherokee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 211 hours of full sun.

Cherokee usually gets less rain in October than Chattanooga. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cherokee or Chattanooga in the Winter?

Both Chattanooga and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cherokee because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chattanooga in the winter. The weather in Cherokee can be very cold. In the winter, Cherokee is around the same temperature as Chattanooga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cherokee in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Chattanooga averages at about 40°F (5°C).

Cherokee usually receives less sunshine than Chattanooga during winter. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 145 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In January, Cherokee usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cherokee or Chattanooga in the Spring?

Both Chattanooga and Cherokee during the spring are popular places to visit.

In April, Cherokee is generally around the same temperature as Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 62°F (17°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cherokee. In the spring, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Chattanooga. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 243 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cherokee usually gets less rain in April than Chattanooga. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chattanooga and Cherokee