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

Should you visit Destin or Cherokee?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Cherokee can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Cherokee travel costs.

Destin and Cherokee: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Cherokee?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cherokee. Although Destin and Cherokee are both popular with visitors, Cherokee has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cherokee is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and hiking, while Destin is known for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Destin is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. It is also home to Oconaluftee Indian Village.

How is Destin different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cherokee is very good for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Destin and Cherokee.

Destin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

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 Destin or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee is a moderate town for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Cherokee specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Cherokee Better for Resorts?

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

Destin is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Cherokee Better for Beaches?

Destin is notable for its beaches. However, Cherokee is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Destin. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Cherokee is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

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.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Cherokee?

Both Destin and Cherokee are good shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cherokee. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Destin or Cherokee More Beautiful?

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

Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Destin or Cherokee Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Cherokee.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

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 Destin or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Cherokee is notable for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Is Destin or Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Cherokee is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Cherokee is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Cherokee is a moderate town for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town 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.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

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

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Destin?

How long in Destin or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Destin or Cherokee. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Destin due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cherokee.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cherokee than Destin 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.

One day in Destin or Cherokee?

The beach town of Destin offers shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Cherokee. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Destin or Cherokee?

Destin 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.

Cherokee is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Cherokee?

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

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. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Cherokee?

Destin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Destin has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the genuine destination of Cherokee. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Destin and Cherokee, we can see that Destin is more expensive. And not only is Cherokee much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cherokee would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cherokee 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 Destin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Destin than you might in Cherokee.

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or Cherokee?

Destin has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Cherokee, 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 Destin or Cherokee?

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 Destin or Cherokee in the Summer?

Both Cherokee and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Destin is around the same temperature as Cherokee in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Cherokee fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cherokee. It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Cherokee. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Destin or Cherokee in the Autumn?

Both Cherokee and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Destin for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cherokee in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Destin is a little warmer than Cherokee. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Cherokee averages at about 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Cherokee. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Cherokee in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Cherokee. Many visitors come to Destin in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cherokee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cherokee can be very cold during winter. In January, Destin is generally much warmer than Cherokee. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Cherokee fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

Cherokee receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cherokee. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Destin or Cherokee in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Cherokee. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Destin is a little warmer than Cherokee in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Cherokee fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Destin usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cherokee. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cherokee and Destin