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

Should you visit Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a thriving, bustling, and outdoorsy city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a magnificent, relaxing, and scenic region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Chattanooga and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Chattanooga 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, resorts, and impressive beauty, while Chattanooga is known for its nightlife. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Chattanooga is popular for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Chattanooga is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. 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.

Chattanooga is not a skiing destination.


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

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chattanooga. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

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

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

Dining out at restaurants in both Chattanooga and Pocono Mountains can be an enjoyable experience.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chattanooga area. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Pocono Mountains. 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 Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

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 Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its resorts. However, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga is not a resort destination.

Is Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

If you're looking to go hiking, Chattanooga and Pocono Mountains both have excellent trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chattanooga. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains?

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

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

Many visitors go to Chattanooga to go shopping. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Pocono Mountains. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.


Is Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

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

Pocono Mountains is known to be 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.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Is Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

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

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.


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

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

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

Chattanooga has some very good public transit options. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

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 Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Pocono Mountains

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

Chattanooga is a very walkable city. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains?

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

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Chattanooga. 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 Chattanooga. 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling destination of Chattanooga. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the beautiful region of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the outdoorsy city of Chattanooga. If you have a weekend, this city 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the magnificent destination of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This region offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains?

Chattanooga is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic region of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains?

Chattanooga 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this region.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Chattanooga?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chattanooga is $182, 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 Chattanooga and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga


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: Chattanooga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Pocono Mountains $49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chattanooga:


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga $59
    Pocono Mountains $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

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

  • MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour: $65
  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chattanooga $52
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga: $14
  • Scenic City Ghosts, Voodoo, Murder Mystery Tour: $21
  • Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $23
  • Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour: $23
  • ChattaBOOga Ghost Walk Tour in Chattanooga: $23
  • Original Local Award-Winning Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour: $25
  • Ghost & Booze Tour of Chattanooga - 21+ Over: $25
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $25
  • Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga: $25
  • Ghosts of Scenic City: Chattanooga Ghosts, Murder & Mystery Tour: $25

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
    Chattanooga $24
    Pocono Mountains $13


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


Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Chattanooga in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Chattanooga is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 81°F (27°C), 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 Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chattanooga usually receives less sunshine than Pocono Mountains during summer. Chattanooga gets 265 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. Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Chattanooga for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In the autumn, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga usually gets more rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

It's quite cold in Pocono Mountains in the winter. The weather in Chattanooga can be very cold. In the winter, Chattanooga is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chattanooga in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Chattanooga usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In January, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Chattanooga during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In April, Chattanooga is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 62°F (17°C), 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 Chattanooga. In the spring, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)