A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Acadia National Park vs. Pocono Mountains for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains, 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.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a beautiful, scenic, and picturesque national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a beautiful, magnificent, and relaxing region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and food.

Acadia National Park and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Acadia National Park and Pocono Mountains are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Acadia National Park is known for its beaches and impressive beauty. Acadia National Park is popular for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls.

How is Acadia National Park different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pocono Mountains and Acadia National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Acadia National Park is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Acadia National Park is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pocono Mountains. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

Acadia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.

Is the Food Better in Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Pocono Mountains is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Acadia National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There's one restaurant in the park, the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner between mid-May and October. Many visitors prefer to bring their own food and enjoy meals at one of the six picnic areas.

Is Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Pocono Mountains. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Acadia National Park. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Is Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park is a national park with good options for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Acadia National Park. There is one oceanside beach in the park, Sand Beach, as well as two lakefront beaches, Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood. Many visitors enjoy swimming during the warmer months.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park and Pocono Mountains are both places where visitors can find high quality hiking trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Acadia National Park. With 158 miles of hiking trails, this is a favorite activity for visitors to the park. There are diverse habitats that trails pass through including forests, estuaries, and coastal settings.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Pocono Mountains. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Pocono Mountains has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Acadia National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.

Is Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Acadia National Park and Pocono Mountains are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds and games that kids will enjoy. There are also Ranger Programs and hiking trails that are great for kids of all ages.

Pocono Mountains is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

Is Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for couples. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

Acadia National Park is a nice destination for couples. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

Is Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Acadia National Park is a good national park to visit for backpackers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Is Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Acadia National Park and Pocono Mountains.

Public transit is mostly limited in Acadia National Park. The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus operates between late June and early October.

Public transit is generally limited in Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.

Is Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park and Pocono Mountains are decent when it comes to walkability.

Acadia National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. There are countless hiking trails, but having a car allows more efficient access to everything that the park has to offer.

Pocono Mountains is generally not very walkable. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Acadia National Park?

How long in Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Both Acadia National Park and Pocono Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Acadia National Park. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Acadia National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Acadia National Park 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 Pocono Mountains.

One day in Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find around the scenic destination of Acadia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find around the scenic national park of Acadia National Park. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Acadia National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people visit Pocono Mountains for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer.

A week in Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Acadia National Park is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Pocono Mountains. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pocono Mountains, one week is sufficent for most.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Acadia National Park and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Pocono Mountains 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 Acadia National Park Expensive? and Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains?

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 Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Acadia National Park as well as Pocono Mountains. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Acadia National Park is generally cooler than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 69°F (21°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. Acadia National Park usually gets less rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Acadia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Acadia National Park is cooler than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In October, Acadia National Park usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Acadia National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Acadia National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Pocono Mountains can be very cold during winter. Acadia National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Acadia National Park is much colder than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Acadia National Park in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Pocono Mountains. Acadia National Park gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Acadia National Park and Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty.

In April, Acadia National Park is generally much colder than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 43°F (6°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In April, Acadia National Park usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Acadia National Park