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

Should you visit Cherokee or Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree 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. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Cherokee travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating, adventurous, and unique national park. Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Cherokee and Joshua Tree National Park: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cherokee than Joshua Tree National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cherokee is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Joshua Tree National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Joshua Tree National Park is more touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its unique vegetation and large boulders. 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Cherokee is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Joshua Tree National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.


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

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Cherokee is a town with good options for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Cherokee is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Cherokee is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Is Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is an amazing national park to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Joshua Tree National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cherokee. 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.


Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park?

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Cherokee is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Cherokee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Is Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park More Beautiful?

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Families?

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Cherokee and Joshua Tree National Park are both high quality 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, Joshua Tree National Park is very family-friendly. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.


Is Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Cherokee and Joshua Tree National Park are both high quality 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.

Joshua Tree National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

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

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

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

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Cherokee is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.


Is Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Joshua Tree National Park

Cherokee is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable town. You need a car to truly explore the park.

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

Should I spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park. In our opinion, Cherokee has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cherokee than Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4

One day in Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the genuine town of Cherokee. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The beautiful national park of Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Cherokee. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

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


Five days in Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park?

Cherokee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Cherokee is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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, Joshua Tree 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
    Joshua Tree National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Joshua Tree National Park $177

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Joshua Tree National Park is $177. 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 Joshua Tree National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Joshua Tree National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree 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 -
    Joshua Tree National Park $47

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Joshua Tree National Park?

Prices for flights to both Joshua Tree 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Joshua Tree National Park $27

Tours and Activities in Joshua Tree National Park

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

  • Rappelling Experience: $255
  • From San Diego: Joshua Tree National Park Private Tour: $949

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93


When comparing the travel costs between Cherokee and Joshua Tree National Park, we can see that Cherokee 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 Joshua Tree National Park Expensive?.


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