A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Berkeley for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pocono Mountains and Berkeley can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a scenic, beautiful, and magnificent region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, skiing, and food.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a progressive, diverse, and quirky city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Berkeley are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, resorts, and hiking, while Berkeley is known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Berkeley is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Berkeley Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Pocono Mountains is notable for snow skiing. However, Berkeley is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. 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.

Berkeley is not a skiing destination.


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

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Berkeley is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Berkeley. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pocono Mountains. 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 Pocono Mountains or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

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 Pocono Mountains or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

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

Berkeley has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

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 Pocono Mountains or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

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

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Berkeley Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Pocono Mountains is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Pocono Mountains is a popular spot for hiking. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

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 Pocono Mountains or Berkeley Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Pocono Mountains is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Pocono Mountains is known to be 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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly region. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Pocono Mountains or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Pocono Mountains is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

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

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Both Pocono Mountains and Berkeley are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Pocono Mountains is a great region to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.


Is Pocono Mountains or Berkeley Better for Students?

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Berkeley is notable for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Berkeley has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 Pocono Mountains or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Berkeley

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Berkeley on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pocono Mountains and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Berkeley. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Pocono Mountains 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 Berkeley.


  • How many days in Pocono Mountains or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pocono Mountains 3-7 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

The region of Pocono Mountains offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the quirky destination of Berkeley. 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.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the quirky city of Berkeley. 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.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

Pocono Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pocono Mountains, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Berkeley 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.


A week in Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer. This region offers something for everyone.

Berkeley 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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Pocono Mountains?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pocono Mountains is $174, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $190. 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 Pocono Mountains and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains or Berkeley? 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 Pocono Mountains


Hotels in Berkeley


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: Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $49
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $43
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $126
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Pocono Mountains 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
    Pocono Mountains $53
    Berkeley $36

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $140

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

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

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $16
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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


Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Berkeley, 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 Pocono Mountains or Berkeley?

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 Pocono Mountains or Berkeley in the Summer?

Both Berkeley and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is a little warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. In July, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Berkeley in the Autumn?

Both Berkeley and Pocono Mountains during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

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

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Berkeley. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Pocono Mountains in the winter. Pocono Mountains is much colder than Berkeley in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Berkeley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Berkeley. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is cooler than Berkeley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Berkeley averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)