A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Arlington vs. Pocono Mountains for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Arlington or Pocono Mountains?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington 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.

Arlington

Arlington is a historical, educational, and international city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

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.

Arlington and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
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 Arlington or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Arlington 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, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Arlington is known for its museums, food, and nightlife. Arlington is popular for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls.

How is Arlington different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arlington or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Arlington 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.

Arlington is not a skiing destination.


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

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Arlington 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 Arlington. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

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 Arlington or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Arlington is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Arlington. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

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.

Is Arlington or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Arlington is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

Arlington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

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 Arlington or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Arlington 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.

Arlington is not a resort destination.

Is Arlington or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Pocono Mountains?

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Arlington and Pocono Mountains.

Arlington has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for shopping. 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 Arlington or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Arlington. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Is Arlington or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Arlington 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.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

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

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Arlington and Pocono Mountains are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.


Is Arlington or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Arlington is notable for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Arlington. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Arlington 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.

Arlington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

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 Arlington or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Arlington
Pocono Mountains

Arlington is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Arlington is a very walkable city. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

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 Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Pocono Mountains?

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

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Arlington. 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 Arlington. 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 Arlington than Pocono Mountains 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 Arlington.


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

One day in Arlington or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the educational destination of Arlington. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Arlington or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the international city of Arlington. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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.

You'll find museums and skiing around the scenic destination of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Arlington or Pocono Mountains?

Arlington is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

You'll find skiing and food around the relaxing region of Pocono Mountains. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this region makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer.


A week in Arlington or Pocono Mountains?

Arlington is a great place to explore. 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 choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pocono Mountains, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Arlington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $264, 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 Arlington and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Arlington 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 Arlington


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: Arlington Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Arlington 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
    Arlington $81
    Pocono Mountains $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Pocono Mountains $30

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
    Arlington $17
    Pocono Mountains $13


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arlington or Pocono Mountains?

Arlington has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Arlington 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 Arlington 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 Arlington or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

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

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arlington this time of the year. In the summer, Arlington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. Arlington usually gets less rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Arlington 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
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

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

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

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

In October, Arlington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Arlington 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
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Arlington during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Arlington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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. Arlington can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Arlington is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arlington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

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

Arlington usually gets less rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Arlington 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
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Pocono Mountains. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In Arlington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arlington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during spring. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arlington usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Arlington 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
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Arlington

Arlington 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)