A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cherokee vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Hiking, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Cherokee or Niagara Falls?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Niagara Falls, 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.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a iconic, breathtaking, and impressive city. Niagara Falls is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Cherokee and Niagara Falls: 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
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • 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


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Niagara Falls?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Niagara Falls. Although Cherokee and Niagara Falls are popular destinations, Niagara Falls has more sights and attractions for tourists. Niagara Falls is very popular for its nightlife and impressive beauty, while Cherokee attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for the large volume of water that flows over it. It is also well known for the Journey Behind the Falls. Cherokee is famous for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Cherokee is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Niagara Falls is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Niagara Falls specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.


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

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cherokee and Niagara Falls can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

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.

Niagara Falls has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Cherokee or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

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 Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Cherokee and Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.


Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Niagara Falls?

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Both Cherokee and Niagara Falls are nice shopping destinations.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Niagara Falls. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Cherokee or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Niagara Falls is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cherokee or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Niagara Falls is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cherokee is very family-friendly. 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.


Is Cherokee or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Cherokee and Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Is Cherokee or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Both Cherokee and Niagara Falls are nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cherokee. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Niagara Falls is a good town to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

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

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Niagara Falls has a few public transit options. There is a bus system through town.

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.


Is Cherokee or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

Niagara Falls is somewhat walkable. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

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 Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Niagara Falls?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls.


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

One day in Cherokee or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the fascinating destination of Cherokee. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful city of Niagara Falls offers nightlife and food. 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 Niagara Falls?

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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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


Five days in Cherokee or Niagara Falls?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fascinating destination of Cherokee. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls?

You'll find museums and food around the town of Cherokee. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Niagara Falls 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 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 Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Niagara Falls 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
    Niagara Falls Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Niagara Falls $149

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Niagara Falls is $149. 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 Niagara Falls in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Niagara Falls $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Niagara Falls $152
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Niagara Falls

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Niagara Falls? 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 Niagara Falls


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 Niagara Falls Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Niagara Falls $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Niagara Falls

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Niagara Falls:

  • Private Transfer Buffalo Airport BUF to Buffalo or Niagara Falls: $42
  • Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) to Buffalo - Arrival Private Transfer: $89
  • Buffalo to Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Buffalo Niagara Airport to Niagara Falls, Ontario: $95
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Buffalo Airport (BUF): $96
  • Shared Airport Transfer: Buffalo Niagara International Airport to Niagara Falls NY: $99
  • Niagara Buffalo Airport Departure: Private Transfer to Buffalo Niagara Airport: $101
  • Niagara Buffalo Airport Arrival: Private Transfer to Niagara Falls Ontario: $101
  • Transfer from Niagara Falls,Canada to Buffalo Niagara Int Airport (BUF): $101
  • Transfer Buffalo Niagara International Airport BUF to Niagara Falls,Canada: $101
  • Private Departure Transfer to Buffalo Airport (BUF): $104
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Buffalo Niagara International Airport to Buffalo, NY: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Niagara Falls?

Prices for flights to both Niagara Falls 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
    Niagara Falls $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Niagara Falls

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Niagara Falls.

  • The Wing Ride: The Hidden History of Chicken Wings Food Tour: $105
  • Walking Food Tour in Niagara Falls: $106
  • Guided Night Tour w/ Dinner & Hotel Transfer: $139
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake: Sunset Wine Tour with Dinner: $162
  • Sunset Niagara-on-the-Lake Small Group Wine Tour with Dinner: $176
  • Night Tour w/ 3 Course Dinner & Light Show: $193
  • Night Tour with Fireworks Boat Ride & Dinner: $197
  • Night on Niagara Walking Tour with Fireworks Cruise + Dinner: $197
  • Niagara Falls USA Night, Lights & Dinner : $199
  • Niagara Falls Canada: Premium Night Tour with Boat & Dinner: $215
  • Niagara Falls Premium Night Tour: Fireworks Boat Cruise & Dinner: $241
  • Day & Night Tour with Boat Ride and Dinner: $279

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Niagara Falls $19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Niagara Falls

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


  • Maid of the Mist
    $37

Tours and Activities in Niagara Falls

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

  • Niagara Peninsula: a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $8.79
  • Explore Old Town Niagara-on-the-Lake: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.99
  • RiverBrink Art Museum: Historical Walking Tour of Queenston: $11
  • Niagara Adventure Theater Experience with Popcorn included: $11
  • Niagara Legends of Adventure Admission Ticket with Popcorn: $12
  • Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Niagara Falls, Canada: Niagara SkyWheel Ticket: $12
  • Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site Admission and Guided Tour: $13
  • Tower Hotel Observation Deck Ticket: $13
  • Niagara Falls Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour from Toronto: $14
  • Explore Niagara Falls with Private Scavenger Hunt Tour: $15
  • Niagara Falls, Canada: Canadiana - The Musical Ticket: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Niagara Falls $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Niagara Falls

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

  • Black Glass Wine Tasting: $23
  • Niagara Wine Tour and Tastings with Included Transportation : $59
  • Public Niagara Wine Tour with Transportation: $61
  • Small Group Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Tasting Tour: $95
  • Half-Day Niagara Micro Brewery Tour: $110
  • Half Day Wine & Cheese Tour - Niagara On The Lake Wine Tour: $117
  • Beer and Wine Tour in Niagara-on-the-Lake: $118
  • Niagara Craft Brewery Tour Niagara Falls: $122
  • Wine Tasting and lavender Farm Tours: $125
  • Relaxing Afternoon Wine Tour through Niagara's Wine Country: $125
  • Vine and Dine Bicycle Wine Tour with Lunch : $125
  • Vintage Wine Tour In Niagara County USA: $139


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Niagara Falls?

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

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 Niagara Falls in the Summer?

Both Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cherokee is a little warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cherokee in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Niagara Falls. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Niagara Falls during summer. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In July, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Niagara Falls 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Cherokee or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

Both Niagara Falls 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Niagara Falls because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cherokee is generally a little warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 63°F (17°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Cherokee. In the autumn, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 148 hours of full sun.

Cherokee usually gets more rain in October than Niagara Falls. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Niagara Falls 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Cherokee or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Niagara Falls in the winter. The weather in Cherokee can be very cold. Cherokee is much warmer than Niagara Falls in the winter. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during winter. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 89 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Niagara Falls -4°C (26°F)

Should I visit Cherokee or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Niagara Falls. Also, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cherokee is much warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cherokee in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 10°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Niagara Falls. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In the spring, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 203 hours of full sun.

Cherokee usually gets more rain in April than Niagara Falls. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Niagara Falls 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Cherokee

Cherokee Niagara Falls
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) -4°C (26°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) -3°C (28°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 10°C (49°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 15°C (59°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 20°C (68°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 23°C (74°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 22°C (72°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 6°C (43°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) -0°C (31°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)


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