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

Should you visit Cherokee or Juneau?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Juneau, 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 genuine, fascinating, and cultural town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Cherokee travel costs.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty in Juneau as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Juneau travel costs.

Cherokee and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Juneau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Juneau. Although Cherokee and Juneau are popular destinations, Juneau has more sights and attractions for tourists. Juneau is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also well known for the Mendenhall Glacier. Cherokee is famous for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
Juneau

Juneau is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Juneau can be an interesting and educational experience. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

Cherokee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


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

Cherokee
Juneau

Juneau is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Juneau makes for a great culinary experience. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Cherokee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Cherokee or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Juneau

Evening events are reasonable in both Cherokee and Juneau.

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 Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Cherokee or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city 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, Juneau draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

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 Juneau?

Cherokee
Juneau

Juneau is notable for shopping. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Juneau is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cherokee. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Cherokee or Juneau More Beautiful?

Cherokee
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Juneau as well. The landscape is filled with glaciers, mountains, and fjords, making it a dramatic and beautiful destination.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cherokee or Juneau Better for Families?

Cherokee
Juneau

Cherokee and Juneau are both very good 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, Juneau is very family-friendly. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.


Is Cherokee or Juneau Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Juneau has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

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 Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Juneau

Juneau is notable for backpackers. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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 Juneau Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cherokee
Juneau

Both Cherokee and Juneau offer reasonable 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 Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.


Is Cherokee or Juneau a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Juneau

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

Juneau is very walkable. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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 Juneau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Juneau?

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

Families should spend more time in Juneau than Cherokee. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Juneau, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Juneau 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 Juneau.


  • How many days in Cherokee or Juneau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Juneau 2-3

One day in Cherokee or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Cherokee. 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 city of Juneau 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 Juneau?

Cherokee is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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


Five days in Cherokee or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Juneau 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 Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the genuine destination of Cherokee. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Juneau 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 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.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau 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
    Juneau Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Juneau $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Juneau is $196. 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 Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Juneau? 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 Juneau


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 Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Juneau $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau 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
    Juneau $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Juneau $17

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Juneau are as follows:

  • City Highlights Bus Tour: $51
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour: $79
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $94
  • Historical Walking Tour of Abandoned Gold Rush Era City with AR: $99
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $123
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $123
  • Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo: $125
  • Tram, Trails and Ale Tour: $125
  • Juneau Highlights and Mendenhall Glacier Tour: $129
  • Alaska Native Tour and Tram Combo: $145

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Juneau $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Juneau

Also in Juneau, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Walking Pub Crawl in Downtown Juneau: $115
  • Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau's Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!: $159
  • Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops: $159


When comparing the travel costs between Cherokee and Juneau, we can see that Juneau 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 Juneau Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Juneau?

Juneau has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Juneau, 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 Juneau?

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 Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cherokee in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cherokee is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cherokee in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Juneau averages at about 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during summer. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In July, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Juneau. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Juneau in the Autumn?

Both Juneau and Cherokee during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cherokee for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Juneau because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cherokee is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 63°F (17°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

It's quite sunny in Cherokee. In the autumn, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun.

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cherokee usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and Juneau. The winter months attract visitors to Cherokee because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

It's quite cold in Juneau in the winter. The weather in Cherokee can be very cold. Cherokee is much warmer than Juneau in the winter. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during winter. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cherokee usually receives around the same amount of rain as Juneau. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Juneau. Additionally, many travelers come to Juneau for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. In the spring, Cherokee is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cherokee in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Juneau averages at about 40°F (4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In the spring, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun.

Cherokee usually gets more rain in April than Juneau. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Cherokee

Cherokee Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)