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

Should you visit Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park and Pocono Mountains can help you decide which place is right for you.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a natural, wild, and pristine national park. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Everglades National Park and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Everglades National Park and Pocono Mountains are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Everglades National Park is popular for its unique habitats and wildlife such as the friendly manatees. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls.

How is Everglades National Park different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Everglades National Park is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Everglades National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is very good for its historical sights. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Everglades National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. It's worth checking out the Museum of the Everglades, but most visitors prefer to spend their time outdoors exploring the habitats.

Is the Food Better in Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Everglades National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few casual eateries near the park. The options include taquerias and grills. You'll also find some farm fresh fruit stands on the side of the road and it's definitely worth stopping to pick up a snack.

Is Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Everglades National Park is not known for nightlife.

Pocono Mountains doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Everglades National Park for the nightlife. There are a couple of grills outside of the park, but the nightlife scene is very limited.


Is Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Everglades National Park 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.

Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

You'll find superb hiking in both Everglades National Park and Pocono Mountains.

Many visitors go to Everglades National Park for the hiking trails. The trails take you through a variety of habitats and range in length from short nature walks to longer, in depth hikes. Do be aware that the insects can be brutal. Mosquitos and biting flies are both common.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is very good for its shopping areas. However, Everglades National Park is not known for shopping.

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.

Everglades National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a park store, but otherwise the shopping is very limited.


Is Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Everglades National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. An airboat ride is a highlight for many kids. There's also hiking, kayaking, and even Junior Ranger programs. Do be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which can be relentless in the park.

Is Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for couples. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Pocono Mountains is a great region if you're traveling as 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.

Everglades National Park is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and enjoying a bit of nature makes for a nice romantic getaway. Go kayaking or take an airboat ride and then enjoy some time exploring the natural setting.

Is Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

For backpackers, both Everglades National Park and Pocono Mountains are superb places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Everglades National Park. There are two drive-in campgrounds (Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground) that you can reach from the Homestead entrance to the park.

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.


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

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Everglades National Park. There is no real public transportation to the park so an organized tour is your best option if you don't have a vehicle.

Is Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Everglades National Park
Pocono Mountains

Everglades National Park and Pocono Mountains are decent when it comes to walkability.

Everglades National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. While there are hiking trails, to really explore the park you'll want to have a car or take an organized tour.

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 Everglades National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Everglades National Park?

How long in Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains?

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

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

One day in Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find around the adventure-filled destination of Everglades National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and shopping around the scenic region of Pocono Mountains, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A weekend in Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find around the adventure-filled national park of Everglades National Park. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With shopping and museums around the scenic destination of Pocono Mountains, there's plenty to do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Everglades National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

With museums and skiing around the magnificent region of Pocono Mountains, there's plenty to do. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Everglades National Park is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Everglades National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Everglades National Park is $146, 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 Everglades National Park and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Everglades National Park $80
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Everglades National Park $160
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Everglades National Park and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park


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.
    Everglades National Park $56
    Pocono Mountains $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Everglades National Park 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
    Everglades National Park $31
    Pocono Mountains $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Everglades National Park $28
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Everglades National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Everglades National Park.

  • Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours: $48
  • 2 Hour Chokoloskee Island Kayak Tour: $80
  • Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour (2 hours): $120
  • Two-Hour Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour: $120
  • 4 Hour Everglades Kayak Tour: $120
  • 6 Hour Everglades Mangroves Kayak Tour: $200

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
    Everglades National Park $7.86
    Pocono Mountains $13


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Everglades National Park and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Pocono Mountains is more expensive. And not only is Everglades National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Everglades National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Everglades National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Everglades National Park for the hiking 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, Everglades National Park is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Everglades National Park average around 82°F (28°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Everglades National Park. In the summer, Everglades National Park often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Everglades National Park gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually gets more rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Everglades National Park gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Everglades National Park 82°F (28°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Everglades National Park and Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Everglades National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Everglades National Park is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Everglades National Park averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In Everglades National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Everglades National Park usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Everglades National Park gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Everglades National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Everglades National Park usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Everglades National Park gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Everglades National Park is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Everglades National Park 78°F (26°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Everglades National Park as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Everglades National Park for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. In the winter, Everglades National Park is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Everglades National Park in January average around 67°F (19°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Everglades National Park this time of the year. In the winter, Everglades National Park often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Everglades National Park gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

Everglades National Park usually gets less rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Everglades National Park gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Everglades National Park 67°F (19°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Everglades National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Everglades National Park because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In April, Everglades National Park is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Everglades National Park average around 74°F (24°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during spring. Everglades National Park gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Everglades National Park usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Everglades National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Everglades National Park.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Everglades National Park 74°F (24°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)