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

Should you visit Cleveland or Pocono Mountains?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cleveland or Pocono Mountains, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a diverse, authentic, and under-rated city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains

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

Cleveland and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 Cleveland or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Cleveland and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Pocono Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pocono Mountains is very popular for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cleveland attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and music. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Cleveland and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also well known for Bushkill Falls. Cleveland is famous for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Cleveland different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cleveland or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

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

Pocono Mountains offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Cleveland is not a skiing destination.


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

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Cleveland is notable 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cleveland. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

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

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Cleveland or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Cleveland 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 Cleveland. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

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 Cleveland or Pocono Mountains Better for Music?

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Cleveland is notable for its live music scene. However, Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Cleveland. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Is Cleveland or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Pocono Mountains has a handful of resorts to choose from. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Cleveland or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Cleveland is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Cleveland is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cleveland or Pocono Mountains?

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Cleveland and Pocono Mountains.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cleveland. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Pocono Mountains offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Cleveland or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Pocono Mountains is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Cleveland or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.


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

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Pocono Mountains is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Cleveland is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There's little in the area that attracts the backpacker crowd.

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

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Cleveland and Pocono Mountains.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

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 Cleveland or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Cleveland
Pocono Mountains

Cleveland and Pocono Mountains are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Cleveland is generally not a very walkable city. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

Pocono Mountains is generally not very walkable. 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 Cleveland Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Cleveland?

How long in Cleveland or Pocono Mountains?

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

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Cleveland. 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 Cleveland. 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cleveland 1-3 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Cleveland or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find live music and shopping around the authentic destination of Cleveland. 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 Cleveland or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the authentic city of Cleveland. 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 beautiful 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 Cleveland or Pocono Mountains?

Cleveland 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 Cleveland or Pocono Mountains?

Cleveland 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Cleveland?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cleveland is $132, 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 Cleveland and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cleveland $75
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cleveland $150
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Cleveland and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Cleveland 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 Cleveland


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: Cleveland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cleveland $19
    Pocono Mountains $49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Cleveland are as follows:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cleveland

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Cleveland Airport (CLE): $64
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Cleveland Airprot (CLE): $64
  • Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) - Departure Private Transfer : $89
  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Arrival Private Transfer : $89
  • CLE Airport Transfer to Downtown Cleveland: $135
  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $178

Is it cheaper to fly into Cleveland or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Cleveland 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
    Cleveland $36
    Pocono Mountains $53
Typical Food Prices in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    $1.79
  • Sandwich
    $9.75
  • Large Pizza
    $15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • West Side Market Food Tour: $49
  • Little Italy Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $74
  • Ohio City Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cleveland $40
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Cleveland by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Skip the Line: Cleveland History Center Admission Ticket: $14
  • Cleveland History Center General Admission Ticket: $15
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Cleveland by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Cleveland with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Eerie Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $24
  • Downtown Cleveland Public Art Walking Tour : $24
  • Cleveland From the Inside Walking Tour: $24
  • Guided Walking Tour: Downtown Highlights: $24
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cleveland: $25
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of University Circle: $25
  • Cleveland Guardians Baseball Game Ticket at Progressive Field: $27

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
    Cleveland $45
    Pocono Mountains $13
Typical Alcohol Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Cleveland are as follows:


  • A Night of Shots
    $36


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cleveland and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Pocono Mountains is more expensive. And not only is Cleveland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cleveland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cleveland and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Pocono Mountains would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pocono Mountains than you might in Cleveland.

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


Which is Bigger, Cleveland or Pocono Mountains?

Cleveland has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cleveland as well as Pocono Mountains. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cleveland is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cleveland in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cleveland this time of the year. In the summer, Cleveland often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Cleveland gets 307 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. Cleveland receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cleveland usually gets less rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Cleveland gets 4 inches (101 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cleveland 75°F (24°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Cleveland or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Cleveland are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cleveland for the shopping scene and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cleveland is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Cleveland average around 56°F (13°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Cleveland usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during autumn. Cleveland gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cleveland usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Cleveland gets 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cleveland 56°F (13°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Cleveland or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Cleveland during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cleveland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Pocono Mountains can be very cold during winter. Cleveland can get quite cold in the winter. Cleveland is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Cleveland averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Cleveland often gets less sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Cleveland gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

Cleveland usually gets less rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Cleveland gets 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cleveland 28°F (-2°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Cleveland or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cleveland and Pocono Mountains. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cleveland is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cleveland in April average around 51°F (10°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In Cleveland, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cleveland usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during spring. Cleveland gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cleveland usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Cleveland gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cleveland 51°F (10°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Cleveland

Cleveland Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 40°F (5°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 51°F (10°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 61°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 71°F (21°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 67°F (19°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 34°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)