A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cherokee vs. Death Valley National Park for Backpackers, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cherokee or Death Valley National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Death Valley National Park, 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 food, hiking, and shopping. See Cherokee travel costs.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a vast, dramatic, and striking national park. You'll find world class beauty in Death Valley National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Death Valley National Park travel costs.

Cherokee and Death Valley National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Death Valley National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cherokee than Death Valley National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cherokee is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Death Valley National Park is more popular for its resorts and impressive beauty. Death Valley National Park is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S. Cherokee is well known for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. Also, Cherokee is famous for Oconaluftee Indian Village.

How is Cherokee different from Death Valley National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Death Valley National Park 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 Death Valley National Park?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Cherokee is very good for its sights and museums. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Death Valley National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.


Is the Food Better in Cherokee or Death Valley National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Cherokee is very good for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cherokee area. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Death Valley National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, but most visitors prefer to bring their own food so that they can enjoy picnicking in a beautiful setting.

Is Cherokee or Death Valley National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Cherokee is a moderate town for its evening party scene. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

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.

Death Valley National Park doesn't offer many options. Beyond stargazing and relaxing around a campfire, there is no real nightlife in the area.

Is Cherokee or Death Valley National Park Better for Resorts?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a moderate national park for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Death Valley National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There are historical inns and lodges in and around the park. The privately owned Inn at Death Valley is a popular option in Furnace Creek. If you stay outside the park, you can expect long drives to get most places.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


Is Cherokee or Death Valley National Park Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Cherokee and Death Valley National Park are both places where visitors can find excellent 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 Death Valley National Park. Hikes will take you past desert landscapes, through canyons, and along sand dunes. The views are spectacular and the setting is other-worldly. Hiking is best between the months of November and March, as temperatures can be high other times of the year, particularly during the summer months.

Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Death Valley National Park?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Cherokee is very good for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for shopping.

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

Shopping in Death Valley National Park can be found for those interested. There are a couple of general stores where you can pick up items that you may need.

Is Cherokee or Death Valley National Park More Beautiful?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Death Valley National Park as well. The striking desert setting offers stunning beauty and breathtaking viewpoints. The park is at its most beautiful when the sun is low during sunrise and sunset.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cherokee or Death Valley National Park Better for Families?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Cherokee and Death Valley National Park are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Death Valley National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will love hiking and exploring the vast desert. There are also ghost towns and abandoned mines that will fascinate kids and adults alike. Junior programs, operated by the National Park Service, also offer interesting and educational programming for kids.

Is Cherokee or Death Valley National Park Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Cherokee and Death Valley National Park are both excellent 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.

Death Valley National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The stunning desert landscape will take your breathe away, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the colors are dramatic and striking. In the evening, the sky fills with stars and couples can enjoy a bit of stargazing.

Is Cherokee or Death Valley National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Death Valley National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will enjoy hiking and camping in a unique desert environment. There are several campgrounds in the area that range from primitive to developed.

Cherokee is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.


Is Cherokee or Death Valley National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Cherokee is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park 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 Death Valley National Park. There is no public transportation within the park.

Is Cherokee or Death Valley National Park a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Death Valley National Park

Cherokee is a moderate town for its ease of walking around. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

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

Death Valley National Park is not a very walkable town. This is a huge national park that requires a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Cherokee Worth Visiting? and Is Death Valley National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Death Valley National Park or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Death Valley National Park?

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

Families should spend more time in Cherokee than Death Valley National Park. 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 Death Valley National Park. 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 Death Valley National Park 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 Death Valley National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Death Valley National Park 2-4

One day in Cherokee or Death Valley National Park?

In Cherokee, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful national park of Death Valley National Park offers . 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 Death Valley National Park?

In Cherokee, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Death Valley National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park 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 Death Valley National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cherokee or Death Valley National Park?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Cherokee. 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. This town offers something for everyone.

Death Valley National Park 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 Death Valley National Park?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the town of Cherokee. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Death Valley National Park 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 national park 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, Death Valley National Park 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
    Death Valley National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Death Valley National Park $101

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Death Valley National Park is $101. 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 Death Valley National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Death Valley National Park $37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Death Valley National Park $74
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Death Valley National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Death Valley National Park? 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 Death Valley National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Death Valley National Park $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Death Valley National Park?

Prices for flights to both Death Valley National Park 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
    Death Valley National Park $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Death Valley National Park $36

Tours and Activities in Death Valley National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Death Valley National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Death Valley National Park: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Death Valley National Park $8.57


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cherokee and Death Valley National Park, we can see that Cherokee is more expensive. And not only is Death Valley National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Death Valley National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Death Valley National Park 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 Cherokee would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cherokee than you might in Death Valley National Park.

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


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