A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gatlinburg vs. Pocono Mountains for Nightlife, Skiing, Resorts, and Hiking

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

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a high energy, wild, and flashy city. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and hiking.

Pocono Mountains

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

Gatlinburg and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Gatlinburg. Although Gatlinburg and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Gatlinburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Gatlinburg is very popular for its nightlife and resorts, while Pocono Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing, food, and impressive beauty. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also well known for the Gatlinburg Strip. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Gatlinburg different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is great for skiing. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for snow skiing.

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

For winter sports and skiing, Gatlinburg is a great destination to visit. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

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

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains.

Gatlinburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Pocono Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Pocono Mountains. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

Gatlinburg is a world class party destination. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

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 Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is notable for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Gatlinburg, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

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.

Is Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

You'll find superb hiking in both Gatlinburg and Pocono Mountains.

Many visitors go to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

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 Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains?

If you're looking to go shopping, Gatlinburg and Pocono Mountains both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Gatlinburg. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Pocono Mountains offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Is Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Pocono Mountains is a very family-friendly destination. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Both Gatlinburg and Pocono Mountains are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Gatlinburg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

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.

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

Pocono Mountains is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.

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

Gatlinburg 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.

Gatlinburg has a few public transit options. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

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 Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Gatlinburg is a very walkable city. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains?

Gatlinburg has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Gatlinburg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Gatlinburg. In the summer, Gatlinburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Gatlinburg gets 294 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 Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Pocono Mountains. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

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

In October, Gatlinburg is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 63°F (17°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In Gatlinburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Gatlinburg usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Gatlinburg gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Gatlinburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. Gatlinburg can be very cold during winter. Gatlinburg is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Gatlinburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Gatlinburg gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the winter. Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Gatlinburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In the spring, Gatlinburg is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Gatlinburg in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during spring. Gatlinburg gets 263 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Gatlinburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Gatlinburg