A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charlotte vs. Pocono Mountains for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Charlotte 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 Charlotte and Pocono Mountains can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a growing, evolving, and up-and-coming 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 relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Charlotte and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Pocono Mountains?

Both Pocono Mountains and Charlotte have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Charlotte is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Charlotte is popular for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Charlotte different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Charlotte or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for skiing. However, Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is not a skiing destination.


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

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Pocono Mountains and Charlotte.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlotte. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

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.

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

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Charlotte and Pocono Mountains.

Charlotte is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Pocono Mountains offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Charlotte or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

Charlotte is a city 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 Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

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 Charlotte or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

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

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.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Is Charlotte or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for hiking. However, Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

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.

Charlotte is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Pocono Mountains?

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

If you're looking to go shopping, Charlotte and Pocono Mountains both offer plenty of good spots.

Charlotte has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for shopping. 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 Charlotte or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Charlotte or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Pocono Mountains is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

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

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a backpacker destination, there are some cheaper motels that budget travelers can stay at.


Is Charlotte or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

Charlotte is a city with good options for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Charlotte is a good city to visit for students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

Charlotte 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.

Charlotte has a few public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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 Charlotte or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Pocono Mountains

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

Charlotte is a somewhat walkable place. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Pocono Mountains?

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

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


  • How many days in Charlotte or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Charlotte or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the growing destination of Charlotte. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. 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 Charlotte or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the evolving city of Charlotte. 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 scenic 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 Charlotte or Pocono Mountains?

Charlotte 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 magnificent 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 Charlotte or Pocono Mountains?

Charlotte 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Charlotte?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $191, 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 Charlotte and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte 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 Charlotte


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: Charlotte Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Pocono Mountains $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

Also for Charlotte, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54
  • Charlotte City to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Arrival Private Transfer: $68
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $134
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $134
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $137
  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlotte or Pocono Mountains?

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

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Charlotte:


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charlotte $43
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Charlotte.

  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Charlotte by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Uptown A Self-Guided Audio Tour to the Heart of Queen City: $12
  • Self-Guided City Highlights Audio Tour: $12
  • Uptown Funk: 1 Hour Guided Walking Tour of Charlotte: $15
  • UPTOWN FUNK: 1 Hour Guided Historical Walking Tour in Charlotte: $15
  • Charlotte Hornets Basketball Game Ticket: $16
  • Charlotte Hornets Basketball Game Ticket at Spectrum Center: $16
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Charlotte by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sea Life Charlotte Concord Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25

Tours and Activities in Pocono Mountains

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlotte $20
    Pocono Mountains $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Charlotte:

  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Original Charlotte Brewery Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $125
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


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


Which is Bigger, Charlotte or Pocono Mountains?

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Charlotte during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Charlotte 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.

In July, Charlotte is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 81°F (27°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 Charlotte. In the summer, Charlotte often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Charlotte gets 289 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. Charlotte usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Pocono Mountains. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlotte and Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. Charlotte usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Charlotte gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Charlotte as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Charlotte 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. In the winter, Charlotte is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Charlotte in January average around 42°F (6°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Charlotte often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Charlotte gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

Charlotte usually gets more rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Charlotte are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In April, Charlotte is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 63°F (17°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 Charlotte. Charlotte usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during spring. Charlotte gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Charlotte usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Charlotte

Charlotte Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)