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

Should you visit Gainesville or Pocono Mountains?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Gainesville 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.

Gainesville

Gainesville is a vibrant, high energy, and active city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains

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

Gainesville and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • 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 Gainesville or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Gainesville and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Pocono Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pocono Mountains is very popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Gainesville attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Gainesville and is known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also well known for Bushkill Falls. Gainesville is famous for being the home of the University of Florida

How is Gainesville different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gainesville or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is notable for snow skiing. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a skiing destination.


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

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Gainesville 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 Gainesville. There's a surprising number of museums around town such as the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, and the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. Also fascinating is the Historic Haile Homestead, the Butterfly Rainforest, and the city's planetarium.

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

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Both Gainesville and Pocono Mountains offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Gainesville offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Casual eateries are popular around town, particularly with the student population. There are grills, diners, and bistros that serve local dishes at affordable prices.

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 Gainesville or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Gainesville is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

Gainesville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife centers around the student population. The two main party areas are Midtown and Downtown. Midtown is between Northwest 17th Street and Northwest 18th Street and it's convenient for students who live on campus. The area has a great stretch of bars and clubs. The Downtown area has many of the city's top clubs, and it's popular with upperclassmen and students who live off campus.

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 Gainesville or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a resort destination.

Is Gainesville or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Gainesville 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.

Gainesville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Gainesville or Pocono Mountains?

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Both Gainesville and Pocono Mountains are nice shopping destinations.

Gainesville is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town such as malls, shopping centers, and retail outlets. Two popular areas are the Neighborhoods at Butler and Celebration Pointe.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Gainesville or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Pocono Mountains is 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.

Gainesville is a family-friendly city. You'll find outdoor activities, nature parks, and a couple of museums that will appeal to all ages. Highlights for families include A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center, the Adventure Outpost, and Alfred A. Ring Park.

Is Gainesville or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is notable for romance. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Gainesville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wine tasting and fine dining or enjoying the city's many outdoor activities. Go on a picnic or explore one of the museums in Downtown Gainesville.

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

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is notable for backpackers. However, Gainesville is a mediocre city 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.

Gainesville is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many travelers, but there are some cheap motels where budget travelers can stay.


Is Gainesville or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

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

Students come from all over to stay in Gainesville. As the location of the University of Florida, you'll find many students around town. This keeps the energy high with plenty of evening activities and affordable entertainment options.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Gainesville is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Gainesville has a few public transit options. There's a decent bus system that's free to students and employees of the university.

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 Gainesville or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Gainesville
Pocono Mountains

Gainesville is a city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Gainesville is a somewhat walkable place. Biking is actually a popular way to get around town and some areas are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Gainesville?

How long in Gainesville or Pocono Mountains?

Both Gainesville 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 Gainesville. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Gainesville, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Gainesville. 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 Gainesville. 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Gainesville 1-2 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Gainesville or Pocono Mountains?

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

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the scenic region of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Gainesville or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the vibrant city of Gainesville. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This region offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Gainesville or Pocono Mountains?

Gainesville 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic region of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Gainesville or Pocono Mountains?

Gainesville 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this region.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Gainesville?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Gainesville is $221, 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 Gainesville and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Gainesville $119
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Gainesville $238
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Gainesville and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Gainesville 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 Gainesville


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: Gainesville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Gainesville $40
    Pocono Mountains $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Gainesville or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Gainesville 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
    Gainesville $70
    Pocono Mountains $53
Typical Food Prices in Gainesville

Some typical examples of dining costs in Gainesville are as follows:


  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $17
  • Lunch at Chop Stix (for 2)
    $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Gainesville $44
    Pocono Mountains $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Gainesville

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Gainesville are as follows:


  • Manatee Tour for Two
    $98
  • Tour Guide Tip
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Gainesville

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Gainesville are as follows:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Gainesville by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Butterfly Rainforest at Florida Museum of Natural History Ticket: $15
  • Private Snorkeling Tour in Florida Springs: $250

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
    Gainesville $49
    Pocono Mountains $13


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

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


Which is Bigger, Gainesville or Pocono Mountains?

Gainesville has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Gainesville 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 Gainesville 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 Gainesville or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Gainesville are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Gainesville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Gainesville is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Gainesville in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 75°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. It's quite rainy in Gainesville. In July, Gainesville usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Gainesville gets 6.8 inches (174 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Gainesville 81°F (27°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Gainesville or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Gainesville during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Gainesville for the shopping 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, Gainesville is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Gainesville average around 71°F (22°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Gainesville usually gets less rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Gainesville gets 2 inches (51 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Gainesville is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Gainesville 71°F (22°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Gainesville or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Gainesville and Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Gainesville in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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. Gainesville is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Gainesville averages around 54°F (12°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In January, Gainesville usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Gainesville gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Gainesville 54°F (12°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Gainesville or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Gainesville as well as Pocono Mountains. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Gainesville is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Gainesville in April average around 69°F (20°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Gainesville usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Gainesville gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Gainesville is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Gainesville 69°F (20°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Gainesville

Gainesville Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 54°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 57°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 69°F (20°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6.8 inches (174 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 6.8 inches (174 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 5.5 inches (139 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 56°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)