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

Should you visit Memphis or Pocono Mountains?

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

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

Memphis

Memphis is a creative, laid-back, and soulful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

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 museums, skiing, and food.

Memphis and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • 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 Memphis or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Memphis. Although Memphis and Pocono Mountains are both popular with visitors, Memphis has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Memphis is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Memphis is popular for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also home to Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Memphis or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Memphis 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.

Memphis is not a skiing destination.


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

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Pocono Mountains and Memphis.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Memphis. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

Pocono Mountains is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Memphis or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Foodies will find both Memphis and Pocono Mountains both to be good destinations.

Memphis is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

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.

Is Memphis or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

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

Memphis has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

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 Memphis or Pocono Mountains Better for Music?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Memphis is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Memphis There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Is Memphis or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

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

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is Memphis or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

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.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Pocono Mountains?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis 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.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Memphis or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Memphis or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.


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

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Memphis is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Memphis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Is Memphis or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Memphis is a city with good options for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Memphis is a good city to visit for students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Memphis and Pocono Mountains both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

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 Memphis or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Memphis
Pocono Mountains

Memphis 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.

Memphis is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Pocono Mountains?

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

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

One day in Memphis or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find live music and food around the soulful destination of Memphis. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city 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 Memphis or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and museums around the creative city of Memphis. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. 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 Memphis or Pocono Mountains?

Memphis 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.

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 Memphis or Pocono Mountains?

Memphis is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the live music. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Memphis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $167, 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 Memphis and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Memphis 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 Memphis


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: Memphis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Pocono Mountains $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

Also for Memphis, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $50
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Greater Memphis To MEM International Airport - Luxury Transfer: $95
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $135
  • Memphis Airport MEM to Hot Springs Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $287
  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Memphis 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
    Memphis $43
    Pocono Mountains $53
Typical Food Prices in Memphis

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Memphis:


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

For Memphis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Memphis $45
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball Game Ticket: $3.91
  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball Game Ticket at FedExForum: $4.03
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Beale Street: $6.50
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Downtown In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Entry Ticket to the Edge Motor Museum: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Memphis by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure City Game on Your Phone: $10
  • Rock 'n' Soul Museum with Audio Tour: $11
  • Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission Ticket in Memphis: $15

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
    Memphis $26
    Pocono Mountains $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Memphis:

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $27
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $59
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $62


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


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Pocono Mountains?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 210 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Memphis 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 Memphis 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 Memphis or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Memphis during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Memphis this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Memphis is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 83°F (29°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 Memphis. In the summer, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Memphis gets 328 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. Memphis usually gets less rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Pocono Mountains. Many travelers come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Memphis is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Memphis usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Memphis in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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. Memphis can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Memphis is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Memphis in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

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

Memphis usually gets less rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Memphis for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty.

In April, Memphis is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 64°F (18°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 Memphis. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during spring. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Memphis. In April, Memphis usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Memphis

Memphis Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)