A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Blue Ridge vs. Pocono Mountains for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge 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.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a historic, quaint, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a beautiful, magnificent, and relaxing region. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Blue Ridge and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Blue Ridge and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Pocono Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pocono Mountains is very popular for its skiing, museums, and resorts, while Blue Ridge attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Blue Ridge and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also well known for Bushkill Falls. Blue Ridge is famous for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere.

How is Blue Ridge different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Blue Ridge is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. 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.

Blue Ridge is not a skiing destination.

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

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Blue Ridge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

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

Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

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 Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

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

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Blue Ridge. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

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 Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

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

Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

Is Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Blue Ridge and Pocono Mountains, and they are very good.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Blue Ridge. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains?

Blue Ridge 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.

Blue Ridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

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 Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Both Blue Ridge and Pocono Mountains are very good family-friendly destinations.

Blue Ridge is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Blue Ridge and Pocono Mountains both very good destinations for a couple.

Blue Ridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

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.

Is Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Blue Ridge and Pocono Mountains are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Blue Ridge is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

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

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

Pocono Mountains is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Is Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Blue Ridge is a town with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Blue Ridge is a somewhat walkable place. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Blue Ridge Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Blue Ridge?

How long in Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains?

Both Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Blue Ridge, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Blue Ridge. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge.

One day in Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains?

Blue Ridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and skiing around the magnificent region of Pocono Mountains, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains?

Blue Ridge is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

Five days in Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains?

Blue Ridge is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains?

Blue Ridge is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains?

Pocono Mountains has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Blue Ridge. When comparing the sizes of Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Blue Ridge as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Blue Ridge for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Blue Ridge is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Blue Ridge in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 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 Blue Ridge this time of the year. In the summer, Blue Ridge often gets less sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Blue Ridge gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. Blue Ridge receives a lot of rain in the summer. Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Blue Ridge gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Blue Ridge are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Blue Ridge because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In October, Blue Ridge is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Blue Ridge average around 63°F (17°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. Blue Ridge usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Blue Ridge gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Blue Ridge usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Blue Ridge gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Blue Ridge during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Blue Ridge this time of year. Furthermore, 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 Blue Ridge in the winter. Blue Ridge is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Blue Ridge often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Blue Ridge gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Blue Ridge gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Blue Ridge and Pocono Mountains. Many travelers come to Blue Ridge for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Blue Ridge is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Blue Ridge in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In Blue Ridge, it's very sunny this time of the year. Blue Ridge usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during spring. Blue Ridge gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

Blue Ridge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Blue Ridge usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Blue Ridge gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Blue Ridge