A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cherokee vs. Whistler for Hiking, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cherokee or Whistler?

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

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

Whistler

Whistler is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and charming village. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Whistler travel costs.

Cherokee and Whistler: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Whistler?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Whistler. Although Cherokee and Whistler are both popular with visitors, Whistler has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Whistler is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Cherokee is known for its museums and attractions. Whistler is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also home to Cloudraker Skybridge. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Whistler and Cherokee. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Cherokee or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Cherokee
Whistler

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for snow skiing. However, Cherokee is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Whistler is among the best in the world. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Cherokee is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cherokee or Whistler?

Cherokee
Whistler

Cherokee is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Cherokee
Whistler

Whistler 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, Whistler makes for a great culinary experience. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Whistler

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

Whistler has plenty to do after the sun goes down. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

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 Whistler Better for Resorts?

Cherokee
Whistler

Whistler is notable for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Whistler is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Is Cherokee or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Whistler

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Whistler draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cherokee. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Whistler?

Cherokee
Whistler

Both Cherokee and Whistler 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 Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.


Is Cherokee or Whistler More Beautiful?

Cherokee
Whistler

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

Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cherokee or Whistler Better for Families?

Cherokee
Whistler

Whistler is an amazing village 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.

Whistler is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Whistler Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Whistler

Cherokee and Whistler are both superb 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.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.


Is Cherokee or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Whistler

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

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

Cherokee
Whistler

Both Cherokee and Whistler 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Cherokee or Whistler a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Whistler

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

Whistler is very walkable. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Whistler?

In either Cherokee or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler than Cherokee because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Cherokee or Whistler? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Whistler 3-5

One day in Cherokee or Whistler?

The town of Cherokee offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The beautiful village of Whistler 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 Whistler?

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

Whistler is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cherokee or Whistler?

Cherokee 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.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Whistler, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Cherokee or Whistler?

Cherokee 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 town offers something for everyone.

Whistler 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 village 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Whistler 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
    Whistler Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Whistler $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Whistler is $146. 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 Whistler in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Whistler $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Whistler $130
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Whistler

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Whistler? 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 Whistler


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 Whistler Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Whistler

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Whistler:

  • Vancouver Airport Private Transfer to Whistler: $133
  • Private Transfer from Whistler to Downtown Vancouver: $560
  • Private Transfer from Richmond BC to Whistler: $684

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Whistler?

Prices for flights to both Whistler 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
    Whistler $52

Typical Food Prices in Whistler

Some typical examples of dining costs in Whistler are as follows:


  • Coffee at Starbucks
    $12
  • Tim Hortons Breakfast
    $12
  • Coffee at Timmy's
    $3.63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Whistler

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

  • Finer Things: 4-Course Dinner Tour in Whistler: $121
  • Finer Things Dinner Tour in Whistler: $155

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Whistler $78

Typical Entertainment Prices in Whistler

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


  • Driving Range
    $15

Tours and Activities in Whistler

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

  • Sea to Sky Highway: a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $8.12
  • Whistler Mountain Peeks Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • Audain Art Museum Admission Ticket: $17
  • One Hour Axe Throwing Guided Experience in Whistler: $33
  • Axe Throwing Experience: $35
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure with Geocaching in Whistler: $36
  • Vallea Lumina Multimedia Evening Experience: $45
  • Tour, Immersive Nature Experience: $52
  • Tour, Sensory Nature Experience for Families: $52
  • Backcountry Snowshoeing Tour with Guide: $90
  • Whistler Sightseeing Tour: Discover all of Whistler Year-Round!: $90
  • Mountain Breeze Tour - Mountain E Bike - Whistler Marmot Activity: $104

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Whistler $8.72


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Whistler?

Whistler has a larger population, and is about 65% larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cherokee because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

Cherokee is much warmer than Whistler in the summer. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Whistler. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. Cherokee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Whistler during summer. Cherokee gets 294 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In July, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Whistler. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Whistler 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Cherokee or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Cherokee during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cherokee this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cherokee is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cherokee in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Whistler averages at about 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Cherokee. In the autumn, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Cherokee gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cherokee usually gets less rain in October than Whistler. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Whistler 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cherokee or Whistler in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and Whistler. Many travelers come to Cherokee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Whistler in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Whistler can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cherokee. In January, Cherokee is generally around the same temperature as Whistler. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 40°F (5°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Cherokee usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during winter. Cherokee gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the winter. Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cherokee usually receives less rain than Whistler. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Cherokee or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Whistler. Additionally, most visitors come to Whistler for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Cherokee is much warmer than Whistler in the spring. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In the spring, Cherokee often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Cherokee gets 263 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Cherokee usually gets less rain in April than Whistler. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Whistler 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Whistler and Cherokee

Cherokee Whistler
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 4°C (40°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 6°C (42°F) 179 mm (7.1 in)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 7°C (45°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 9°C (49°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 13°C (55°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 16°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 15°C (59°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 11°C (51°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 7°C (44°F) 234 mm (9.2 in)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 4°C (40°F) 198 mm (7.8 in)