A Travel Price Comparison for Pennsylvania Hershey vs. Pocono Mountains for Families, Resorts, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hershey or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Hershey 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.

Hershey

Hershey is a fun-filled, playful, and lighthearted town. And you can't forget about the shopping and museums.

Pocono Mountains

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

Hershey and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • 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


Is there more to do in Hershey or Pocono Mountains?

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

How is Hershey different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hershey or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey is not a skiing destination.


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

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

Both Hershey and Pocono Mountains have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

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

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Pocono Mountains offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Hershey or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

It's hard to distinguish whether Hershey or Pocono Mountains has a better nightlife scene.

Hershey is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

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.


Is Hershey or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

Hershey 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 Hershey, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

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 Hershey or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Pocono Mountains. 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.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Pocono Mountains?

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pocono Mountains and Hershey.

Hershey is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

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 Hershey or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

Hershey is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hershey is an extremely popular town to visit for families. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

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.

Is Hershey or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

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

Couples visit Hershey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

Pocono Mountains is a great town 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.

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

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options 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.

Hershey is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there are some fun activities in the area.


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

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hershey and Pocono Mountains.

Public transit is generally limited in Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

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 Hershey or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Hershey
Pocono Mountains

Hershey and Pocono Mountains both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Hershey is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable 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 Hershey Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Pocono Mountains?

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

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Pocono Mountains. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hershey, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Hershey. 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 Hershey 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 Hershey or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Hershey or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find museums and shopping around the playful destination of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Hershey or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the lighthearted town of Hershey. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Hershey or Pocono Mountains?

Hershey is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hershey or Pocono Mountains?

Hershey is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. In Pocono Mountains, you'll find museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Hershey?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hershey is $212, 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 Hershey and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Hershey 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 Hershey


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: Hershey Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Hershey or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Hershey 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
    Hershey $61
    Pocono Mountains $53
Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hershey $53
    Pocono Mountains $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

Here are a few actual costs in Hershey for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket: $25

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
    Hershey $27
    Pocono Mountains $13


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hershey and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Hershey 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 Hershey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hershey 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 Hershey Expensive? and Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hershey or Pocono Mountains?

Hershey has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Hershey 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 Hershey 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 Hershey or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Hershey in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Hershey is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hershey in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In Hershey, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hershey usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during summer. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Hershey usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Hershey for the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, 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, Hershey is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 56°F (13°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Hershey often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Hershey because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Hershey can be very cold. Hershey is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hershey usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Hershey during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hershey is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hershey in April average around 53°F (12°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hershey. In the spring, Hershey often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Hershey

Hershey Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)