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

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

Durham

Durham is a sports oriented, diverse, and student-filled city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains

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

Durham and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Durham or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Durham 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, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Durham is known for its museums and nightlife. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Durham and is known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Durham is popular for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Durham different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Durham or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Durham 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.

Durham is not a skiing destination.

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

Durham 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 Durham. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Durham and Pocono Mountains can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Durham area. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

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 Durham or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Durham 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 Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

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 Durham or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

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

Durham is not a resort destination.

Is Durham or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Durham is not a hiking destination.

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.

Durham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Durham or Pocono Mountains?

Both Durham and Pocono Mountains are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Durham to go shopping. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

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 Durham or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Durham is a family-friendly city. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

Is Durham or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for couples. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Durham is a nice destination for couples. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

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

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city 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.

Durham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The student population means there are a number of parties and bars around town, but most backpackers overlook this city.

Is Durham or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

Durham is notable for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Durham. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Both Durham and Pocono Mountains offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

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 Durham or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Durham and Pocono Mountains both are decent when exploring on foot.

Durham is generally not very walkable. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Durham?

How long in Durham or Pocono Mountains?

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

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

One day in Durham or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the sports oriented destination of Durham. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Durham or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the student-filled city of Durham. 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.

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Durham or Pocono Mountains?

Durham 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Durham or Pocono Mountains?

Durham 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Pocono Mountains. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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

Which is Bigger, Durham or Pocono Mountains?

Durham has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Durham 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 Durham 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 Durham or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Durham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Durham for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Durham is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 79°F (26°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Durham. Durham usually receives less sunshine than Pocono Mountains during summer. Durham gets 259 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 Durham. In July, Durham usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Durham gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Durham or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Durham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Durham in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Durham is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Durham averages around 61°F (16°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

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

Durham usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pocono Mountains. Durham gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Durham or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Durham and Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Durham for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, 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. Durham can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Durham is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Durham in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Durham usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Durham gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Durham usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Durham gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Durham or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Durham as well as Pocono Mountains. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In April, Durham is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 60°F (16°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 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 Durham this time of the year. In the spring, Durham often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Durham gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Durham gets 3.1 inches (78 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 Durham