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

Should you visit Baltimore or Pocono Mountains?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Baltimore and Pocono Mountains can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a vibrant, diverse, and colorful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a magnificent, relaxing, and scenic region. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Baltimore 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 public transit
  • Very walkable
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 Baltimore or Pocono Mountains?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Baltimore than Pocono Mountains, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Baltimore is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Baltimore is well known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. Also, Baltimore is famous for the National Aquarium. Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Baltimore different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Baltimore or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

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

People head to Pocono Mountains specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and 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.

Baltimore is not a skiing destination.


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

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

Baltimore 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 Baltimore. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

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

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

Baltimore 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 Baltimore. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

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 Baltimore or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

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

Baltimore has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

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 Baltimore or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is very good for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Pocono Mountains makes a nice vacation spot. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Is Baltimore or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Pocono Mountains?

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

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 Baltimore or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Pocono Mountains.

Baltimore is a very kid-friendly city. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

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.

Is Baltimore or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

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

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

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

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

It's common for backpackers to visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.


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

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

Baltimore is notable for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Baltimore has some very good public transit options. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail 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 Baltimore or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Pocono Mountains

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

Baltimore is a very walkable city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Pocono Mountains?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Baltimore. 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.


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

One day in Baltimore or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful destination of Baltimore. 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 Baltimore or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the vibrant city of Baltimore. 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 beautiful 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 Baltimore or Pocono Mountains?

Baltimore 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 beautiful 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 Baltimore or Pocono Mountains?

Baltimore 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.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Baltimore?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $184, 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 Baltimore and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore 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 Baltimore


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: Baltimore Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Pocono Mountains $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Port to Baltimore Airport: $42
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Airport to Baltimore Port: $42
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Cruise Port to Baltimore city: $42
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore City to Baltimore Cruise Port: $42
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $56
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $64
  • Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $69
  • Baltimore Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • San Francisco Airport to Oakland: Round Trip Private Transfer: $89
  • Baltimore City to Philadelphia City - Private Car Transfer: $104
  • Arrival Private Transfer Baltimore Airport BWI to Baltimore by Business Vehicle: $111

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Baltimore 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
    Baltimore $46
    Pocono Mountains $53
Typical Food Prices in Baltimore

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Baltimore:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2) in Fells Point
    $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Baltimore

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Baltimore.

  • Federal Hill Food Tour: $71
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $73
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $74
  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $76
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $84
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $119
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $119
  • Baltimore 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $194
  • Baltimore New Year's Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

Here are a few actual costs in Baltimore for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park: $5.00
  • Downtown Baltimore In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Audio Tour: $13
  • Historic & Cultural Baltimore Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour: $17
  • Historical Baltimore Self-Driving Sightseeing Audio Tour: $17
  • Baltimore Orioles Baseball Game Ticket at Oriole Park: $17
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30
  • Sights and Sips Private City Sightseeing Cruise: $31
  • Inner Harbor Sightseeing Cruise: $31

Tours and Activities in Pocono Mountains

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Pocono Mountains $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

Also in Baltimore, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $33
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Chesapeake Region Wine Tour: $171


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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Pocono Mountains?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Baltimore 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 Baltimore 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 Baltimore or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Pocono Mountains. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Baltimore is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains in the summer. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 78°F (25°C) in July, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In Baltimore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during summer. Baltimore gets 283 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. Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Baltimore is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Baltimore in October average around 57°F (14°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Baltimore often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Baltimore gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pocono Mountains. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Pocono Mountains can be very cold. Baltimore can be very cold during winter. In January, Baltimore is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 32°F (0°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Baltimore usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Baltimore gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Baltimore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

Baltimore is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains in the spring. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Baltimore. In the spring, Baltimore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Baltimore gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Baltimore usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Baltimore

Baltimore Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)