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

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

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Pocono Mountains

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

Chicago and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago. Although Chicago and Pocono Mountains are both popular with visitors, Chicago has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chicago is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing, resorts, and hiking. Chicago is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also home to The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Chicago different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Chicago 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.

Chicago is not a skiing destination.

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

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Chicago are among the most recognizable in the world. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pocono Mountains. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

Is Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Theater?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Pocono Mountains is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Chicago that are not to be missed. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Pocono Mountains is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Chicago have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

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 Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

Chicago is a world class party destination. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

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 Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Music?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Chicago The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is very good for its resorts. However, Chicago 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.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a city with good options for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Chicago. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Pocono Mountains. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Pocono Mountains?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Chicago make it a world-class shopping destination. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

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 Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Christmas?

Chicago is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Pocono Mountains does not offer Christmas activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Pocono Mountains does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Pocono Mountains does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago is a nice place to see Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Pocono Mountains does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pocono Mountains. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

Is Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago 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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

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

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Chicago or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Chicago is a very popular city for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Chicago has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

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 Chicago or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

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

Chicago is a very walkable city. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible 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 Chicago Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Pocono Mountains?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Chicago than Pocono Mountains. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago 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 Chicago.

One day in Chicago or Pocono Mountains?

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. 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.

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Chicago or Pocono Mountains?

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. 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.

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Chicago or Pocono Mountains?

Chicago is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Chicago or Pocono Mountains?

Chicago 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. In Pocono Mountains, you'll find museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chicago and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Pocono Mountains much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pocono Mountains would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pocono Mountains 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago than you might in Pocono Mountains.

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Pocono Mountains?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 930 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Chicago 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 Chicago 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 Chicago or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Pocono Mountains. Many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chicago is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 77°F (25°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 Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during summer. Chicago gets 326 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. Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chicago usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chicago or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

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

Chicago is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Chicago often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Chicago usually gets less rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, 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. Chicago can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Chicago is much colder than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chicago in January average around 25°F (-4°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Chicago usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during winter. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chicago usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chicago or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

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

In April, Chicago is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 52°F (11°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 Chicago. In the spring, Chicago often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Chicago gets 218 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 Chicago. Chicago usually gets more rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Chicago