A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Pocono Mountains for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a glitzy, flashy, and party-oriented city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a magnificent, relaxing, and scenic region. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Atlantic City and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Atlantic City and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Pocono Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pocono Mountains is very popular for its skiing, museums, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Atlantic City attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Atlantic City is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also well known for Bushkill Falls.

How is Atlantic City different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is well known for winter skiing. However, Atlantic City is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. 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.

Atlantic City is not a skiing destination.

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

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Pocono Mountains is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

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

Foodies will find both Atlantic City and Pocono Mountains both to be nice destinations.

Atlantic City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Pocono Mountains has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

Atlantic City is a world class party destination. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

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 Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is notable for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Atlantic City, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

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.

Is Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City is a city with good options for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Atlantic City. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

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.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pocono Mountains and Atlantic City.

Atlantic City is a great destination for shopping. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Pocono Mountains. 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 Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Pocono Mountains frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is well known for backpackers. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

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

Atlantic City is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Atlantic City has a few public transit options. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

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 Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

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

Atlantic City is a very walkable city. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

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 Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains?

Both Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Atlantic City. 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 Atlantic City. 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 Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the glitzy destination of Atlantic City. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find nightlife and food around the glitzy city of Atlantic City. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in 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. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains?

Atlantic City is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Pocono Mountains. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains?

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City Expensive? and Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains?

Atlantic City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the beaches 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 the summer, Atlantic City is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Atlantic City in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In Atlantic City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during summer. Atlantic City gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. Atlantic City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Pocono Mountains. The autumn months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the shopping scene. 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.

In October, Atlantic City is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 56°F (13°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Atlantic City often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Atlantic City gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pocono Mountains. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City in the winter. Atlantic City is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Atlantic City usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Atlantic City gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Atlantic City during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Atlantic City is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Atlantic City in April average around 51°F (10°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Atlantic City. In the spring, Atlantic City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Atlantic City gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Atlantic City