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

Should you visit Norfolk or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Norfolk 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.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a maritime, authentic, and blue collar city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

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.

Norfolk and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Norfolk or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Norfolk 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 Norfolk attracts visitors for its nightlife. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also well known for Bushkill Falls. Norfolk is famous for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Norfolk or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

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

Norfolk is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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

Both Norfolk and Pocono Mountains offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Norfolk offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

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 Norfolk or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk is a city 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 Norfolk. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

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 Norfolk or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its resorts. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Norfolk or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Pocono Mountains?

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

Norfolk is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around 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 Norfolk or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Norfolk or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Pocono Mountains frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

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

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city 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.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

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

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

Public transit is generally limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

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 Norfolk or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Pocono Mountains?

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

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Norfolk. 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 Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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.

One day in Norfolk or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the blue collar destination of Norfolk. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. 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 Norfolk or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the blue collar city of Norfolk. 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.

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 Norfolk or Pocono Mountains?

Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Pocono Mountains?

Norfolk 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.

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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Norfolk 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 Norfolk Expensive? and Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Norfolk or Pocono Mountains?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Norfolk 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, Norfolk is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Norfolk in July average around 79°F (26°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 Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. Norfolk usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during summer. Norfolk gets 279 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. Norfolk gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Norfolk or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Norfolk 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, Norfolk is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 62°F (16°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk this time of the year. In the autumn, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets more rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Norfolk or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Norfolk 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 Norfolk can be very cold. Norfolk is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 39°F (4°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Norfolk usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Norfolk or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Norfolk is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Norfolk in April average around 58°F (14°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 Norfolk. In the spring, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Norfolk