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

Should you visit Austin or Pocono Mountains?

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

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

Austin

Austin is a eccentric, unconventional, and lively city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Pocono Mountains

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

Austin and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Austin or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Austin. Although Austin and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Austin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Austin is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Pocono Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Austin and is known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital.

How is Austin different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Austin or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Austin 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.

Austin is not a skiing destination.

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

Austin 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 Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Austin is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Austin have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Austin or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

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

Austin is a world class party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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 Austin or Pocono Mountains Better for Music?

Austin is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Austin Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Is Austin or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Austin is not a resort destination.

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

Austin is not a resort destination.

Is Austin or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Pocono Mountains?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pocono Mountains and Austin.

Austin is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

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 Austin or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Austin or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

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

Austin and Pocono Mountains are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

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

Is Austin or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Austin and Pocono Mountains.

Public transit is generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

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 Austin or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Austin and Pocono Mountains both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Austin is generally not very walkable. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Austin?

How long in Austin or Pocono Mountains?

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

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

One day in Austin or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the entrepreneurial destination of Austin. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Austin or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the unconventional city of Austin. 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.

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Pocono Mountains?

Austin 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Austin or Pocono Mountains?

Austin 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the magnificent destination of Pocono Mountains. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Austin and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Pocono Mountains is more expensive. And not only is Austin much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Austin would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Austin 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 Austin.

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

Which is Bigger, Austin or Pocono Mountains?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 220 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Austin 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 Austin 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 Austin or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Pocono Mountains. The hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Austin this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Austin is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Austin in July average around 87°F (30°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 Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. Austin usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during summer. Austin gets 318 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. In July, Austin usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Austin or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Austin as well as Pocono Mountains. Many travelers come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Austin is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 73°F (23°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In the autumn, Austin often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Austin gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets more rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Austin 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. Austin is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Austin usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Austin gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Austin usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Austin or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Austin during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Austin is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Austin in April average around 71°F (22°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 Austin. In the spring, Austin often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Austin gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 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 Austin