A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cherokee vs. Zion National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cherokee or Zion National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Zion National Park, 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.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Cherokee and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Zion National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zion National Park. Although Cherokee and Zion National Park are both popular with visitors, Zion National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zion National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cherokee is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Zion National Park is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. It is also home to Angels Landing. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Cherokee is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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 Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.


Is the Food Better in Cherokee or Zion National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Cherokee is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Cherokee or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Cherokee is a town with a few options for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Cherokee is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Is Cherokee or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a moderate park for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Zion National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


Is Cherokee or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an amazing park 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, Zion National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

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 Zion National Park?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Cherokee is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

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 in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.

Is Cherokee or Zion National Park More Beautiful?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cherokee or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Cherokee and Zion National Park are both superb destinations for the whole family.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zion National Park is very family-friendly. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

Is Cherokee or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Cherokee and Zion National Park 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.

Zion National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

Is Cherokee or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zion National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

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 Zion National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Zion National Park 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.

Zion National Park has a few public transit options. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

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 Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Zion National Park

Cherokee is a town with a few options for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

Zion National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Cherokee Worth Visiting? and Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zion National Park or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Zion National Park?

Both Cherokee and Zion National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zion National Park than in Cherokee. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

Families should spend more time in Cherokee than Zion National Park. 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 Zion National Park. 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 Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park.


  • How many days in Cherokee or Zion National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Zion National Park 3-7

One day in Cherokee or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the genuine destination of Cherokee. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful park of Zion National Park offers . 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 Zion National Park?

Cherokee is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the genuine town of Cherokee. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cherokee has to offer.

Zion National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Zion National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Cherokee. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

Zion National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zion National Park, 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 Zion National Park?

Cherokee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Zion National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zion National Park has to offer. This park 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, Zion National Park 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
    Zion National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cherokee $186
    Zion National Park $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $186, while the average daily cost in Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Zion National Park $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Zion National Park $120
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Zion National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Zion National Park? 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 Zion National Park


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 Zion National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Zion National Park $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Zion National Park?

Prices for flights to both Zion National Park 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
    Zion National Park $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Zion National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

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

  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $22
  • Zion Canyon Hot Springs Soak Experience: $36
  • East Zion East Rim Jeep Tour: $58
  • Zion Sunset Jeep Tour: $81
  • Harry Potter's Zion Ghost Tour: $85
  • Virgin: Zion National Park Off-Road Vehicle Tour & Hike: $89
  • From Virgin: Zion Night Sky Jeep Tour with a Telescope: $100
  • Peekaboo Slot Canyon Jeep Tour: $104
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $105
  • East Zion Brushy Cove Jeep Tour: $117
  • East Zion 2.5 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $119
  • Private Photographers Choice Slot Canyon Tour: $125

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Zion National Park $8.28


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

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