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

Should you visit Duck or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Duck 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.

Duck

Duck is a compact, charming, and laid-back beach town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a scenic, beautiful, and magnificent region. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Duck and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Duck or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Duck and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Pocono Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pocono Mountains is very popular for its skiing, museums, and hiking, while Duck attracts visitors for its beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Duck is famous for its quaint atmosphere and small town charm. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also well known for Bushkill Falls.

How is Duck different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Duck or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Duck is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. 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.

Duck is not a skiing destination.


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

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Duck is not a good beach town for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Duck. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.

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

Duck
Pocono Mountains

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Duck and Pocono Mountains.

Duck offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

Pocono Mountains has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Duck or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Both Duck and Pocono Mountains are reasonable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Duck specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.

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 Duck or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Duck and Pocono Mountains offer a relatively similar set of nice luxury resort options.

Duck has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.

With a selection of resorts, Pocono Mountains makes a nice vacation spot. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Is Duck or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Duck is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Duck is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Duck or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its hiking trails.

Pocono Mountains is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Duck. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.


Is the Shopping Better in Duck or Pocono Mountains?

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Duck is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

Duck is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.

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 Duck or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Duck or Pocono Mountains.

Duck is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Pocono Mountains is very family-friendly. 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 Duck or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Duck
Pocono Mountains

With fun activities for couples, both Duck and Pocono Mountains make for a excellent place to visit.

Duck is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

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.


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

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Duck is not a good beach town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Duck is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's an upscale town with many beach houses available for rent, and very little in the form of budget accommodation.

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

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Both Duck and Pocono Mountains offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

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 Duck or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Duck
Pocono Mountains

Duck is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Duck on foot. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable beach town. 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 Duck Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Duck?

How long in Duck or Pocono Mountains?

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Duck 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 Duck or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Duck 5-7 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Duck or Pocono Mountains?

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Duck or Pocono Mountains?

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

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Duck or Pocono Mountains?

Duck is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the relaxing destination of Pocono Mountains. This region offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.


A week in Duck or Pocono Mountains?

Duck is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the magnificent region of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Duck?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Duck is $188, 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 Duck and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Duck $107
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Duck $214
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Duck and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Duck 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 Duck


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Duck $66
    Pocono Mountains $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Duck or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Duck 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
    Duck $45
    Pocono Mountains $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Duck $13
    Pocono Mountains $30

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
    Duck $45
    Pocono Mountains $13


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


Which is Bigger, Duck or Pocono Mountains?

Pocono Mountains has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Duck 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 Duck 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 Duck or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Duck are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Duck in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Duck is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Duck in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 75°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Duck. Duck usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during summer. Duck gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. It's quite rainy in Duck. In July, Duck usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Duck gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Duck 78°F (26°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Duck or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Duck during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Duck for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Duck is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Duck average around 62°F (16°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Duck. In the autumn, Duck often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Duck gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Duck usually gets more rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Duck gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Duck 62°F (16°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Duck or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Duck and Pocono Mountains. The winter months attract visitors to Duck because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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 Duck can be very cold. Duck is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Duck averages around 41°F (5°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Duck usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Duck gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

Duck gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Duck usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Duck gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Duck 41°F (5°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Duck or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Duck as well as Pocono Mountains. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Duck this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Duck is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Duck in April average around 59°F (15°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Duck this time of the year. In the spring, Duck often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Duck gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Duck usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Duck gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Duck 59°F (15°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Duck

Duck Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)