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

Should you visit Cherokee or Glacier 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 Glacier 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 cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Cherokee travel costs.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and gorgeous park. You'll find world class beauty in Glacier National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Glacier National Park travel costs.

Cherokee and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Glacier National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Glacier National Park. Although Cherokee and Glacier National Park are both popular with visitors, Glacier National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Glacier National Park is more popular for its resorts and impressive beauty, while Cherokee is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. It is also home to Going-to-the-Sun Road. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Cherokee is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


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

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Cherokee is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Glacier National Park. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

Is Cherokee or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Cherokee is a moderate town for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

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.

Glacier National Park doesn't offer many options. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Cherokee or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Glacier National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


Is Cherokee or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Cherokee and Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Glacier National Park?

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Cherokee is a popular place for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Glacier National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.

Is Cherokee or Glacier National Park More Beautiful?

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an amazing 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 Glacier National Park as well. This is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States with its many pristine lakes, striking mountain peaks, and breathtaking views.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cherokee or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Cherokee is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park 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.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly town. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.

Is Cherokee or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Cherokee and Glacier National Park are both very good 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.

Glacier National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.

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

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

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

Glacier National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

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 Glacier National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Both Cherokee and Glacier National Park offer decent public transit options.

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 mostly limited in Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

Is Cherokee or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Glacier National Park

Cherokee is a moderate town for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its high level of walkability.

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

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable town. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.

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

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Glacier National Park?

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

Families should spend more time in Cherokee than Glacier 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 Glacier 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 Glacier 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 Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Cherokee or Glacier National Park?

In Cherokee, you'll find shopping and museums. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful park of Glacier 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 Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cherokee. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town. It offers something for everyone.

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

Five days in Cherokee or Glacier National Park?

Cherokee is a fun place to experience. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Glacier 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 Glacier National Park?

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural destination of Cherokee. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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.

Glacier 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 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, Glacier 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
    Glacier National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Glacier National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Glacier National Park is $148. 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 Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Glacier 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 Glacier 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 -
    Glacier National Park $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier 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
    Glacier National Park $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

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

  • Many Glacier Self-Guided Audio Tour in Glacier National Park: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park Going-to-the-Sun Road Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park North Fork Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: $16
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $20
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $159
  • Doris Lake Hike and Pack Raft Adventure: $219
  • E Bike Tour in Glacier National Park Cammas Road: $229
  • Driving Tour West Glacier National Park (excludes Sun Road): $245
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $250

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Glacier National Park $8.41


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cherokee and Glacier National Park, we can see that Cherokee is more expensive. And not only is Glacier National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Glacier National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Glacier 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 Glacier 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 Glacier National Park Expensive?.


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