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

Should you visit Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a laid-back, wealthy, and maritime beach destination. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Cape Cod and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Cape Cod 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, museums, nightlife, and hiking, while Cape Cod is known for its food, beaches, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cape Cod is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls.

How is Cape Cod different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is great for skiing. However, Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod is not a skiing destination.

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

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

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 Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Pocono Mountains doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

There are good resorts to choose from in both Cape Cod and Pocono Mountains.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

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.

Is Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod is notable for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Cape Cod attract visitors from all over. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is great for hiking. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails. 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.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains?

Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

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 Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Both Cape Cod and Pocono Mountains are very good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

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.

Is Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Cape Cod and Pocono Mountains both very good destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Cape Cod and Pocono Mountains both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Public transit is generally 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 Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Cape Cod is a beach destination with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable beach destination. 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 Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains?

Both Cape Cod and Pocono Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Pocono Mountains has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Pocono Mountains than Cape Cod. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The region of Pocono Mountains offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Pocono Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains?

Cape Cod is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pocono Mountains, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains?

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer. This region offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

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

When is the best time to visit Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Cape Cod during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, 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 July, Cape Cod is generally cooler than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 68°F (20°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. In the summer, Cape Cod often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Cape Cod gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cape Cod usually gets less rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and Pocono Mountains. The autumn months attract visitors to Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Cape Cod usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Cape Cod gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as Pocono Mountains. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod in the winter. In the winter, Cape Cod is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Cod in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Cape Cod often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Cape Cod gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the winter. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Cape Cod is generally cooler than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 45°F (7°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during spring. Cape Cod gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. In April, Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 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 Cape Cod