A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Juneau for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Juneau?

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 Juneau 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's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Juneau

Juneau is a breathtaking, historic, and scenic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains and Juneau: 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
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Juneau?

Both Juneau and Pocono Mountains have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Pocono Mountains is better known for its skiing and resorts, while Juneau is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Juneau is well known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Juneau Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Juneau is not a skiing destination.

People head to Pocono Mountains specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and 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.

Juneau is not a skiing destination.


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

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Juneau 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 Juneau. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

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 Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Juneau 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 Juneau. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

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 Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Evening events are respectable in both Pocono Mountains and Juneau.

Most people don't head to Pocono Mountains specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.


Is Pocono Mountains or Juneau Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its resorts. However, Juneau is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Pocono Mountains makes a nice vacation spot. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Juneau is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Juneau is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Juneau visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Juneau?

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Juneau 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.

Juneau is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

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 Juneau Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Both Pocono Mountains and Juneau are excellent to visit with kids.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Juneau. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Is Pocono Mountains or Juneau Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Juneau is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for couples.

Juneau is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

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

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Both Pocono Mountains and Juneau are excellent 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 Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.


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

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Both Pocono Mountains and Juneau offer respectable public transit options.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

Is Pocono Mountains or Juneau a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Juneau

Juneau is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Juneau is a very walkable city. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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 Juneau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Juneau?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Juneau 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 Juneau.


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

One day in Pocono Mountains or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find museums and food around the breathtaking destination of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Juneau?

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic city of Juneau. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. 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 Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Juneau is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the magnificent destination of Pocono Mountains. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Juneau is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. 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, Juneau 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 Juneau is $160. 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 Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains or Juneau? 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 Juneau


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: Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $49
    Juneau $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Juneau Airport (JNU): $48
  • Private Departure Transfer to Juneau Airport (JNU): $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau 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
    Juneau $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $30
    Juneau $17

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

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

  • Juneau, The Last Frontier Self Guided (Smart Phone App/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $79
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $132
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $139
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $154
  • eBikes Alaska - Rainforest Adventure: $160
  • Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise with Local Guide: $177
  • 3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau Alaska: $189
  • Juneau Whale Watching Adventure: $189

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Juneau $16


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


Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Juneau?

Juneau has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Juneau, 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 Juneau?

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 Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Juneau in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Juneau in the summer. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 75°F (24°C) in July, and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. Pocono Mountains usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during summer. Pocono Mountains gets 288 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. In July, Pocono Mountains usually receives around the same amount of rain as Juneau. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Juneau in the Autumn?

Both Juneau and Pocono Mountains during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pocono Mountains in October average around 55°F (13°C), and Juneau averages at about 42°F (6°C).

In the autumn, Pocono Mountains often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Pocono Mountains gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun.

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pocono Mountains usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Juneau. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Juneau because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Juneau can be very cold. Pocono Mountains can be very cold during winter. In January, Pocono Mountains is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 28°F (-2°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Pocono Mountains usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during winter. Pocono Mountains gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Juneau. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Juneau. The spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

It's quite cold in Juneau in the spring. Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Juneau in the spring. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 51°F (11°C) in April, and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In the spring, Pocono Mountains often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Pocono Mountains gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in April than Juneau. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)