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

Should you visit Cherokee or San Antonio?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or San Antonio, 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.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a fun, historic, and cultural city. San Antonio is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music. See San Antonio travel costs.

Cherokee and San Antonio: 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
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cherokee or San Antonio?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Antonio. Although Cherokee and San Antonio are both popular with visitors, San Antonio has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Antonio is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Cherokee is known for its hiking. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. San Antonio is popular for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks. It is also home to The Alamo.

How is Cherokee different from San Antonio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cherokee
San Antonio

San Antonio 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 San Antonio can be an interesting and educational experience. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

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 San Antonio? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cherokee
San Antonio

San Antonio 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, San Antonio makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

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 San Antonio Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
San Antonio

San Antonio 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 San Antonio. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

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 San Antonio Better for Music?

Cherokee
San Antonio

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Cherokee is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep San Antonio active and fun. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Cherokee is not a live music destination.


Is Cherokee or San Antonio Better for its Old Town?

Cherokee
San Antonio

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Cherokee does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to San Antonio to see the historical old town. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Cherokee does not have a historic old town.

Is Cherokee or San Antonio Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
San Antonio

Cherokee is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, San Antonio 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.

San Antonio is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or San Antonio?

Cherokee
San Antonio

Both Cherokee and San Antonio 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 San Antonio. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.


Is Cherokee or San Antonio More Beautiful?

Cherokee
San Antonio

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Antonio is a gorgeous place to visit. The RiverWalk feels almost like a European city and its filled with colors and festiveness.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cherokee or San Antonio Better for Families?

Cherokee
San Antonio

San Antonio 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.

San Antonio is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

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 San Antonio Better for Couples?

Cherokee
San Antonio

Cherokee is a great destination for romance. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

San Antonio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.


Is Cherokee or San Antonio Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
San Antonio

Cherokee is a good destination for backpackers. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

San Antonio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While its not on most backpacker's lists, it does have a fun atmosphere and a social setting.

Is Cherokee or San Antonio Better for Students?

Cherokee
San Antonio

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for students. However, Cherokee is not popular with students.

San Antonio is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Cherokee is not popular with students.

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

Cherokee
San Antonio

Both Cherokee and San Antonio 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 San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.


Is Cherokee or San Antonio a more walkable city?

Cherokee
San Antonio

Cherokee and San Antonio both are decent when exploring on foot.

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

San Antonio is generally not a very walkable town. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Cherokee Worth Visiting? and Is San Antonio Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Antonio or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or San Antonio?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Antonio 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 San Antonio.


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

One day in Cherokee or San Antonio?

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 city of San Antonio offers museums and nightlife. 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 San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural 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.

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


Five days in Cherokee or San Antonio?

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.

San Antonio 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 San Antonio?

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.

San Antonio 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, San Antonio 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
    San Antonio Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    San Antonio $161

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in San Antonio is $161. 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 San Antonio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    San Antonio $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    San Antonio $138
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and San Antonio

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or San Antonio? 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 San Antonio


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 San Antonio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    San Antonio $20

Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Antonio

Some typical examples of transportation costs in San Antonio are as follows:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Antonio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Antonio:

  • Private Transfer in a Luxury Vehicle to and/or from SAT Airport: $50
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $68
  • San Antonio Airport (SAT) to San Antonio - Arrival Private Transfer: $73
  • San Antonio to San Antonio Airport (SAT) - Departure Private Transfer: $73
  • Private One Way Transfer from San Antonio to San Antonio Airport : $73
  • Private One-way Transfer from San Antonio Airport to San Antonio: $73
  • Private Transfer San Antonio Airport SAT to San Antonio City: $93
  • Private Transfer: San Antonio Airport to San Antonio by Sedan, SUV or Minibus : $98
  • Private Transfer: San Antonio to San Antonio Airport by Sedan, SUV or Minibus: $98
  • San Antonio Airport (SAT) to San Antonio - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $146

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or San Antonio?

Prices for flights to both San Antonio 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
    San Antonio $69

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Antonio

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

  • Asian Dumplings Cooking Class in San Antonio: $75
  • Asian Dumpling Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • The Haunted Dinner Tour: $80
  • San Antonio Centre Food Tour of 6 Tastings with Tacos & Ice Cream: $95
  • San Antonio Secret Food Tour - Tacos, BBQ & Tex-Mex Classics: $100
  • San Antonio Premium Night Driving Tour with Dinner & Cruise: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    San Antonio $36

Typical Entertainment Prices in San Antonio

Here are a few typical costs in San Antonio for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Spa Treatments
    $200

Tours and Activities in San Antonio

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

  • Historic San Antonio Audio APP and GPS Private Self Guided Tour: $9.75
  • Self-Guided Ghost Audio Tour in San Antonio App with EMF Reader: $9.75
  • San Antonio River Walk Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • San Antonio's 1/2-day History and cultural guided driving tour: $9.99
  • The Alamo Exhibit Entry Ticket: $14
  • San Antonio River Walk Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • San Antonio Private Scavenger Hunts Experience: $15
  • San Antonio Texas Audio Adventure: $15
  • River Walk Cruise Ticket: $17
  • Witte Museum Admission Ticket: $17
  • Botanical Garden Admission Ticket: $18
  • Buckhorn Saloon & Museum / Texas Ranger Museum Entry Ticket: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    San Antonio -

Sample the Local Flavors in San Antonio

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in San Antonio:

  • Epic San Antonio Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • San Antonio Texas Bar Crawl: Drinks Up in San Antonio!: $15
  • River City: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Texas’ Oldest Haunted Pub Crawl Shared Walking Tour: $30
  • San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Ghost Bus Pub Crawl : $62
  • Ghost Bus Haunted Pub Crawl: $62
  • Taste of Fredericksburg Small-Group Wine Tour from San Antonio: $179
  • Fredericksburg Hill Country Aficionado Wine Tour from San Antonio: $229


When comparing the travel costs between Cherokee and San Antonio, we can see that Cherokee is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or San Antonio?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and San Antonio, 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 San Antonio?

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 San Antonio in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and San Antonio. Many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Antonio in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Cherokee is cooler than San Antonio in the summer. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and San Antonio fluctuates around 87°F (31°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Antonio 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 San Antonio during summer. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies, while San Antonio receives 307 hours of full sun in the summer.

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cherokee usually receives more rain than San Antonio. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    San Antonio 87°F (31°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or San Antonio in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as San Antonio. Many visitors come to Cherokee in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to San Antonio for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cherokee is cooler than San Antonio. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cherokee in October average around 63°F (17°C), and San Antonio averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Antonio. 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 San Antonio. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Antonio receives 213 hours of full sun.

Cherokee usually gets less rain in October than San Antonio. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    San Antonio 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or San Antonio in the Winter?

Both San Antonio and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cherokee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Antonio because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cherokee can be very cold during winter. In January, Cherokee is generally much colder than San Antonio. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 40°F (5°C), and San Antonio fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Cherokee usually receives less sunshine than San Antonio during winter. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while San Antonio receives 155 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In January, Cherokee usually receives more rain than San Antonio. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    San Antonio 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or San Antonio in the Spring?

Both San Antonio and Cherokee during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to San Antonio this time of year.

Cherokee is cooler than San Antonio in the spring. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and San Antonio fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

In San Antonio, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cherokee. In the spring, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than San Antonio. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Antonio receives 216 hours of full sun.

Cherokee usually gets more rain in April than San Antonio. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    San Antonio 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for San Antonio and Cherokee

Cherokee San Antonio
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 54°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 65°F (18°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 74°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 79°F (26°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 84°F (29°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 87°F (31°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 82°F (28°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)