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

Should you visit Cherokee or Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon 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. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Cherokee travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park

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

Cherokee and Grand Canyon 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 for nightlife
  • 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 the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park. Although Cherokee and Grand Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Grand Canyon National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grand Canyon National Park is more popular for its resorts and impressive beauty, while Cherokee is known for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. It is also home to the sunset views. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Cherokee is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park 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.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Cherokee is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cherokee. 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 Grand Canyon National Park. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

Is Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Evening events are decent in both Cherokee and Grand Canyon National Park.

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 Grand Canyon National Park. There's a couple of bars that aren't too far from the park but you'll do better to bring your own drinks and enjoy the scenic setting.

Is Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

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

Grand Canyon National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


Is Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Cherokee and Grand Canyon National Park are both places where visitors can find great 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 Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park?

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Cherokee is a good destination for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park as well. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Cherokee is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Cherokee is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Is Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an amazing national park to visit for romance. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Cherokee makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

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

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

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

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Both Cherokee and Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Is Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is somewhat walkable. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

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 Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park. In our opinion, Grand Canyon National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Grand Canyon National Park than Cherokee. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

Families should spend more time in Cherokee than Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park than Cherokee. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Grand Canyon National Park that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than Cherokee 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 Grand Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Cherokee, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this fascinating 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 Grand Canyon National Park offers . 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 Grand Canyon 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.

Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cherokee or Grand Canyon 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.

Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon 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.

Grand Canyon 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, Grand Canyon 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
    Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Grand Canyon National Park $203

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Grand Canyon National Park is $203. 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 Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon 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 and Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon 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
    Grand Canyon National Park $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Grand Canyon South Rim Sunset Tour with Dinner included: $170

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Ultimate Arizona Self-Guided Driving and Walking Tour Bundle: $32
  • Grand Canyon West: All Access Ticket: $114
  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $127
  • Express Grand Canyon Jeep Tour : $136
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • 4-Hour Grand Canyon Morning Rim Tour featuring Biblical Creation: $149
  • Tusayan: Grand Canyon Desert View & South Rim Pink Jeep Tour: $150
  • Grand Entrance Sunset Tour from Tusayan: $155
  • Premier Grand Canyon JeepTour: $157
  • Private Grand Canyon South Rim VAN tours: $162

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


When comparing the travel costs between Cherokee and Grand Canyon National Park, we can see that Grand Canyon National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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