A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Kennebunkport vs. Pocono Mountains for Food, Resorts, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a quaint, character-filled, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Kennebunkport and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • 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 Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Kennebunkport and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Pocono Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pocono Mountains is very popular for its skiing and hiking, while Kennebunkport attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, resorts, shopping, and small town charm. Kennebunkport is famous for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also well known for Bushkill Falls.

How is Kennebunkport different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for skiing. However, Kennebunkport is not a skiing destination.

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.

Kennebunkport is not a skiing destination.


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

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

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

Kennebunkport is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley 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 Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

Kennebunkport is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kennebunkport. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

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.

Is Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

Kennebunkport is a town 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 Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

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 Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

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 Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for hiking. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains?

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

Kennebunkport is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

Kennebunkport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

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.


Is Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains.

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly destination. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

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

Kennebunkport is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

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 Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.


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

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

Kennebunkport and Pocono Mountains both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

Public transit is generally 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 Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Kennebunkport
Pocono Mountains

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

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable place. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains?

Both Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Kennebunkport, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

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

Couples should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Pocono Mountains. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kennebunkport that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kennebunkport 2-4 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains?

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains?

Kennebunkport is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains?

Kennebunkport 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.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Pocono Mountains. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains?

Kennebunkport 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Kennebunkport?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kennebunkport is $220, 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 Kennebunkport and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kennebunkport $124
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kennebunkport $248
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Kennebunkport and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport


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: Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Kennebunkport 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
    Kennebunkport $67
    Pocono Mountains $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kennebunkport $21
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kennebunkport.

  • Ghost Tour with Folklore, Gossip & Scandals: $29
  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $30
  • Historic District Walking Tour: $45
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $140

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
    Kennebunkport $31
    Pocono Mountains $13


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


Which is Bigger, Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains?

Pocono Mountains has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Kennebunkport during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Kennebunkport is cooler than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kennebunkport in July average around 69°F (20°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 Kennebunkport. In the summer, Kennebunkport often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Kennebunkport gets 282 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. Kennebunkport usually gets less rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Kennebunkport gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kennebunkport and Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, 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, Kennebunkport is generally cooler than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 49°F (9°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Kennebunkport usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Kennebunkport gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kennebunkport as well as Pocono Mountains. The winter months attract visitors to Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport can be very cold. Kennebunkport is much colder than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 21°F (-6°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Kennebunkport often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Kennebunkport gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Kennebunkport gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Kennebunkport are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kennebunkport is much colder than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kennebunkport in April average around 43°F (6°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 Kennebunkport. Kennebunkport usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during spring. Kennebunkport gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kennebunkport usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)