A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cherokee vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Cherokee or Napa Valley?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Napa Valley, 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 museums, food, and hiking. See Cherokee travel costs.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. You'll find world class beauty in Napa Valley as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Napa Valley travel costs.

Cherokee and Napa Valley: 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Napa Valley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Napa Valley than Cherokee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Napa Valley is better known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cherokee is more popular for its museums and attractions. Napa Valley is more touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. Also, Napa Valley is famous for Louis M. Martini Winery. Cherokee is well known for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
Napa Valley

Cherokee is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


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

Cherokee
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an amazing area to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Napa Valley is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is notable for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Napa Valley has plenty to do after the sun goes down. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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.

Is Cherokee or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Napa Valley

Cherokee and Napa Valley are both places where visitors can find high quality 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 Napa Valley. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.


Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Napa Valley?

Cherokee
Napa Valley

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

Napa Valley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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 Napa Valley More Beautiful?

Cherokee
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an amazing area to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Napa Valley as well. It is filled with rows of vineyards, classic chateaus, and picturesque settings, which make this a beautiful destination to explore.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cherokee or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Cherokee
Napa Valley

Cherokee is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cherokee. 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.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.


Is Cherokee or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Napa Valley

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

Napa Valley has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

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 Napa Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Napa Valley

Cherokee is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Napa Valley is not known for backpackers.

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

Napa Valley is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's considered to be more of a luxury destination than a backpacker's retreat, but there are a few affordable places to stay in the area.

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

Cherokee
Napa Valley

Cherokee is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known 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 Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.


Is Cherokee or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Napa Valley

Cherokee is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known 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.

Napa Valley is not a walkable town. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Cherokee or Napa Valley. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cherokee than Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Cherokee or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fascinating town of Cherokee. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The beautiful area of Napa Valley offers nightlife and food. 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 Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the genuine destination of Cherokee. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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


Five days in Cherokee or Napa Valley?

The genuine town of Cherokee offers museums and food. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Napa Valley is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food 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 Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Cherokee. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

Napa Valley is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food 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 area 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, Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Napa Valley $333

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $333. 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 Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Napa Valley? 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 Napa Valley


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 Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Napa Valley $183

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • Self-Guided Napa Art Walking Tour: $9.00
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour Around Bodega Head : $9.99
  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $25
  • Napa Valley & Sonoma Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $25
  • Napa Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Snob Free Sonoma Plaza Walking Experience: $109
  • Safari West Sonoma Adventure Tour: $110
  • Napa Valley Daily Join In Group Wineries Tour Including Lunch: $125
  • Napa Valley Wine Trolley Castle Tour: $135
  • Sonoma Valley Open Air Wine Trolley Tour: $135
  • Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour: $135
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Guided Wine Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • ATV Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting: $150
  • ATV Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting: $155
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $156
  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine Tasting & History Tour (Public Tour): $179
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour | 6-8hr Private Fully Customized.*XL SUV: $250


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Napa Valley?

Napa Valley has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Napa Valley, 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 Napa Valley?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cherokee or Napa Valley in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Napa Valley. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cherokee this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cherokee is generally a little warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 81°F (27°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In the summer, Cherokee often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun.

Cherokee receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cherokee usually gets more rain in July than Napa Valley. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cherokee is around the same temperature as Napa Valley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during autumn. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Napa Valley in the Winter?

Both Napa Valley and Cherokee during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cherokee in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cherokee can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Cherokee is much colder than Napa Valley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cherokee in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 46°F (8°C).

In the winter, Cherokee often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually gets more rain in January than Napa Valley. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and Napa Valley. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the natural beauty.

In April, Cherokee is generally a little warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 62°F (17°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cherokee usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during spring. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Cherokee

Cherokee Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)