A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Cherokee for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Washington 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 Washington and Cherokee can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Washington is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Washington travel costs.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Cherokee travel costs.

Washington and Cherokee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Washington or Cherokee?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Cherokee are both popular with visitors, Washington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Washington is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cherokee is known for its hiking. Washington is more touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Washington different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Washington
Cherokee

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Washington that are not to be missed. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Washington or Cherokee Better for Theater?

Washington
Cherokee

Washington is notable for theatre. However, Cherokee is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Cherokee is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington
Cherokee

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Washington is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Cherokee

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

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington or Cherokee Better for Music?

Washington
Cherokee

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

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Cherokee is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Washington
Cherokee

Cherokee is great for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Cherokee for the hiking trails. 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Cherokee?

Washington
Cherokee

Washington is notable for shopping. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Washington is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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 Washington or Cherokee More Beautiful?

Washington
Cherokee

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

Washington is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Washington or Cherokee Better for Families?

Washington
Cherokee

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

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Cherokee is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Washington or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Washington
Cherokee

Both Washington and Cherokee are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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.


Is Washington or Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Washington
Cherokee

Cherokee is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Washington or Cherokee Better for Students?

Washington
Cherokee

Washington is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Cherokee is not popular with students.

Washington is a great destination for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Cherokee is not popular with students.

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

Washington
Cherokee

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Washington
Cherokee

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Washington?

How long in Washington or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Washington or Cherokee. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Washington due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cherokee.

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

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

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


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

One day in Washington or Cherokee?

Washington is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

With museums and food around the cultural town of Cherokee, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Cherokee?

Washington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

With food and shopping around the destination of Cherokee, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Washington or Cherokee?

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

Cherokee, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Cherokee?

Washington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Washington has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Cherokee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cherokee or Washington?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Washington Prices
    USA Prices
    Cherokee Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Washington $226
    Cherokee $186

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $226, while the average daily cost in Cherokee is $186. 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 Washington and Cherokee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $113
    Cherokee $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $226
    Cherokee $316
Compare Hotels in Washington and Cherokee

Looking for a hotel in Washington or Cherokee? 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 Washington


Hotels in Cherokee


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: Washington Hotel Prices and Cherokee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $47
    Cherokee -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • DCA Airport Private Transfer to Washington D.C.: $37
  • Private Transfer Washington Airport DCA to Washington DC Hotels: $42
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $48
  • Private Departure Transfer to Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $48
  • Airport Transfer from Ronald Reagan Airport DCA ⇄ Washington DC: $65
  • Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $67
  • Washington to Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) - Departure Private Transfer: $67
  • Washington DC: One Way Airport Transfer Service: $80
  • Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $84
  • Transfer Dulles Airport (IAD) to Washington City Center: $88
  • Transfer Washington City Center to Dulles Airport (IAD): $89
  • Washington to Washington Dulles Airport (IAD) - Departure Private Transfer: $89

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Cherokee?

Prices for flights to both Cherokee and Washington 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
    Washington $66
    Cherokee $27
Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • DC: City Cruises Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $60
  • DC: City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $71
  • Little Ethiopia Food Tour: $71
  • Adams Morgan Food Tour: $78
  • Dupont Circle Food Tour: $84
  • Washington D.C: Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $95
  • DC: Eastern Market Eats Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert): $99
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $104
  • City Cruises Washington DC: Signature Dinner Cruise: $121
  • City Cruises Washington DC: Premier Dinner Cruise: $127
  • Eastern Market Neighborhood Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert): $129
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Washington $24
    Cherokee -

Tours and Activities in Washington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Washington.

  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Washington: $6.00
  • The Kennedy Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Washington DC Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • Georgetown's Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Haunted Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Reflections on a Nation Self-Guided National Mall Highlights Tour: $9.99
  • Washington DC Mall Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $12
  • National Mall Democracy Quest Experience in Washington DC: $12
  • Washington DC Audio Tour: Washington, D.C. Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • DC - Historical: At your leisure and your pace. Downloadable audiovisual tour.: $15
  • Washington DC Monuments Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • City Cruises DC: Water Taxi from Wharf or Old Town Alexandria: $20
  • Washington D.C.: Washington Wizards Basketball Game Ticket: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $19
    Cherokee -

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures: $36
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $56
  • DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Washington and Cherokee, we can see that Washington 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 Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington 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 Washington Expensive? and Is Cherokee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Washington or Cherokee?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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 Washington or Cherokee?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Washington or Cherokee in the Summer?

Both Cherokee and Washington during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Washington. In the summer, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cherokee. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 294 hours of full sun.

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in July than Cherokee. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Washington or Cherokee in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Cherokee. Many travelers come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music 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, Washington is cooler than Cherokee. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Cherokee averages at about 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Cherokee during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cherokee. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Washington 60°F (15°C) 
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Washington or Cherokee in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Washington as well as Cherokee. Many visitors come to Washington in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, 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. Washington can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Washington is generally much colder than Cherokee. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Cherokee fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cherokee. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. Washington usually gets less rain in January than Cherokee. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Washington 35°F (1°C) 
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Washington or Cherokee in the Spring?

Both Cherokee and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Washington is cooler than Cherokee in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Cherokee fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Cherokee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Cherokee during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 263 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Washington usually receives less rain than Cherokee. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Washington 56°F (14°C) 
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Cherokee and Washington

Washington Cherokee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)