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

Should you visit Cherokee or Norfolk?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Norfolk, 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. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Cherokee travel costs.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Norfolk travel costs.

Cherokee and Norfolk: 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Norfolk?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cherokee. Although Cherokee and Norfolk are both popular with visitors, Cherokee has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cherokee is more popular for its hiking, while Norfolk is known for its nightlife. Cherokee is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. It is also home to Oconaluftee Indian Village. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence.

How is Cherokee different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
Norfolk

Both Cherokee and Norfolk have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.


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

Cherokee
Norfolk

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cherokee and Norfolk can be difficult as they are each good 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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Cherokee or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Norfolk

Norfolk 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 Norfolk. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

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 Norfolk Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Norfolk

Cherokee is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Norfolk?

Cherokee
Norfolk

Both Cherokee and Norfolk are good 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 Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Cherokee or Norfolk Better for Families?

Cherokee
Norfolk

Cherokee is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Cherokee or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Norfolk

Cherokee is a great destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Cherokee frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.


Is Cherokee or Norfolk Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Norfolk

Cherokee is a popular place for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cherokee. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

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

Cherokee
Norfolk

Both Cherokee and Norfolk 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 Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Cherokee or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Norfolk

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

Norfolk is somewhat walkable. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Norfolk Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cherokee or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cherokee than Norfolk because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 1-2 days is enough time in Norfolk.

Families should spend more time in Cherokee than Norfolk. 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 Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Norfolk 1-2

One day in Cherokee or Norfolk?

In Cherokee, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Norfolk offers food and shopping. 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 Norfolk?

In Cherokee, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cherokee has to offer.

Norfolk 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Norfolk, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cherokee or Norfolk?

Cherokee is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Norfolk 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 Norfolk?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cherokee. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Cherokee. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Norfolk is a great place to explore. 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, Norfolk 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
    Norfolk Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Norfolk $202

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Norfolk is $202. 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 Norfolk in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Norfolk $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Norfolk $168
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Norfolk

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Norfolk? 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 Norfolk


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 Norfolk Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Norfolk $54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Norfolk?

Prices for flights to both Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $85

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

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

  • City Cruises Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise: $57
  • City Cruises Buffet Dinner Cruise : $103
  • 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise with Fireworks: $210

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Norfolk $14

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

Here are a few actual costs in Norfolk for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin: $40
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $42
  • Half-Day Self-Guided Tour E-Bike Rental in Norfolk: $75
  • City Cruises Signature Lunch Cruise: $84

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Norfolk $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Norfolk

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Norfolk:

  • Norfolk Bar Crawl: $15


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


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Norfolk?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

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 Norfolk in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and Norfolk. Many visitors come to Cherokee in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Norfolk for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cherokee is around the same temperature as Norfolk in the summer. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Norfolk fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk this time of the year. In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cherokee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk during summer. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

Norfolk receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cherokee usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Norfolk in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Norfolk. Most visitors come to Cherokee for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cherokee is around the same temperature as Norfolk. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cherokee in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Norfolk averages at about 62°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In the autumn, Cherokee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun.

Cherokee usually gets less rain in October than Norfolk. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Norfolk in the Winter?

Both Norfolk and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Norfolk this time of year.

It's quite cold in Norfolk in the winter. The weather in Cherokee can be very cold. In January, Cherokee is generally a little warmer than Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 40°F (5°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

Cherokee usually receives less sunshine than Norfolk during winter. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In January, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Norfolk. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Norfolk in the Spring?

Both Norfolk and Cherokee during the spring are popular places to visit.

Cherokee is a little warmer than Norfolk in the spring. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Norfolk fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cherokee. In the spring, Cherokee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun.

Cherokee usually gets more rain in April than Norfolk. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Cherokee

Cherokee Norfolk
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)