A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Pocono Mountains for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Pocono Mountains. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic, charming, and quaint city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains

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

Alexandria and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

Both Pocono Mountains and Alexandria have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Alexandria is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing, resorts, and hiking. Alexandria is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Alexandria different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Alexandria or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for skiing. However, Alexandria 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.

Alexandria is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Alexandria is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Alexandria. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

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.

Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Dining out at restaurants in both Alexandria and Pocono Mountains can be an enjoyable experience.

Alexandria is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Pocono Mountains offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Alexandria or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Alexandria is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

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.


Is Alexandria or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria 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.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Is Alexandria or Pocono Mountains Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Alexandria is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Pocono Mountains does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Alexandria can be explored in its historical center. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Pocono Mountains does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails. 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.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Alexandria is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

Alexandria is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon 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.

Is Alexandria or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pocono Mountains. 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.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Alexandria and Pocono Mountains both very good destinations for a couple.

Alexandria is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.


Is Alexandria or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

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

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Alexandria is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Alexandria has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is mostly 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 Alexandria or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Pocono Mountains

Alexandria is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Alexandria on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

Both Alexandria 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 Alexandria. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

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


  • How many days in Alexandria or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and skiing around the magnificent region of Pocono Mountains, 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 Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the historic city of Alexandria. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

With skiing and food around the destination of Pocono Mountains, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

Alexandria is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Pocono Mountains, a popular region, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this region. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Pocono Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this region makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Alexandria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Pocono Mountains is $174. 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 Alexandria and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Pocono Mountains? 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 Alexandria


Hotels in Pocono Mountains


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: Alexandria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Pocono Mountains $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Alexandria 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
    Alexandria -
    Pocono Mountains $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • Old Town Alexandria Tour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $26
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • A Walk in Washington's Footsteps History Tour: $32
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $38
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Private Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon: $165
  • Philadelphia Tour from Alexandria by Rail: $329

Tours and Activities in Pocono Mountains

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

  • Delaware Water Gap Air Tour: $141
  • Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Pocono Mountains $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Alexandria:

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35


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

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


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Pocono Mountains?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Pocono Mountains, 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Alexandria during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Alexandria is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 79°F (26°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Alexandria. In the summer, Alexandria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Alexandria usually gets less rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Pocono Mountains. The autumn months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Alexandria usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Pocono Mountains. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Pocono Mountains. It's quite cold in Alexandria in the winter. In the winter, Alexandria is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Alexandria in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets less rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 56°F (14°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during spring. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Alexandria

Alexandria Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)