A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Las Vegas for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas?

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 Las Vegas 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 gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a sinful, fun-filled, and entertaining entertainment capital. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Pocono Mountains and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Strip
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Las Vegas. Although Pocono Mountains and Las Vegas are popular destinations, Las Vegas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Las Vegas is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Pocono Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Las Vegas is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. It is also well known for The Strip. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Pocono Mountains is notable for snow skiing. However, Las Vegas 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.

Las Vegas is not a skiing destination.


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

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas. Just wander along the Strip and pop in to any of the hotels to see what makes this city unique. There are many replicas of iconic landmarks around the world including the Venetian canals and the Eiffel Tower. You can also check out the Mob Museum, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the Neon 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 Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Pocono Mountains is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Las Vegas that are not to be missed. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Pocono Mountains is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Las Vegas have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.

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 Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

Las Vegas is a world class party destination. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.

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 Las Vegas Better for Music?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas There are a number of long running shows as well as frequent musicians that pass through. There are also free live concerts and music festivals throughout the year.

Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

Las Vegas is a world class resort vacation destination. Along the strip you'll find world class resorts with casinos, shops, theaters, and all kinds of entertainment venues. Many resorts have a detailed décor that immerses you in an ambiance that unique from the world outside. Top rated resorts include the Bellagio, the Wynn, and Park MGM.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.


Is Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Pocono Mountains is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas 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.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Las Vegas make it a world-class shopping destination. The city's shopping scene combines high end brands with a style that is uniquely Las Vegas. Many hotels have their own malls or shopping areas where you can buy designer names or visit flagship stores.

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 Las Vegas Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Pocono Mountains is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital 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.

Las Vegas is not always a place people visit with their families. The city is more known for its adult entertainment options than as a family-friendly destination, but there are good kid-friendly activities around town including kid-oriented shows, the Fun Dungeon in the Excalibur, and thrilling rides that are great for all ages.


Is Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Las Vegas 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.

Las Vegas is a great entertainment capital for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city has become a mecca for weddings - whether impromptu or luxuriously planned out. With it's glamourous resorts and wide variety of entertainment options, couples can enjoy a fun-filled visit here.

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 Las Vegas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Pocono Mountains is notable for backpackers. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital 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.

Las Vegas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most visitors are not backpackers, but for those who want to experience the hype while sticking to a budget, there are a handful of hostels around town.

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

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Both Pocono Mountains and Las Vegas offer reasonable 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 Las Vegas. Many visitors use the Monorail to get around the Strip and the touristy areas. There's also a bus system that travels throughout the city.


Is Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a entertainment capital with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Las Vegas is a somewhat walkable place. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.

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 Las Vegas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas?

Both Pocono Mountains and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Las Vegas has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Las Vegas than Pocono Mountains. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

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


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

One day in Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas?

You'll find shopping and museums around the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Las Vegas because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This entertainment capital offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas?

You'll find museums and skiing around the beautiful destination of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Las Vegas because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas?

You'll find skiing and food around the beautiful region of Pocono Mountains. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this region makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer.

Las Vegas is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas?

Pocono Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pocono Mountains, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Las Vegas is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


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, Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas is $310. 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 Las Vegas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Las Vegas $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Las Vegas $316
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas? 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 Las Vegas


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: Las Vegas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $49
    Las Vegas $53

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • 24 Hr Bus Pass
    $15
  • 24 hrs Deuce Bus
    $7.00
  • Taxi from Airport to the Strip
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Las Vegas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Las Vegas:

  • Private Transfer from Manila Cruise Port to Manila city hotels: $22
  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport Transfer Any Part of Manila: $23
  • Private Transfer: McCarran Airport (LAS) to Las Vegas City Center: $26
  • Private Transfer from Salomague Cruise Port to Laoag city hotels: $46
  • Private Transfer from Laoag city hotels to Salomague Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Transfer from Salomague Port to Laoag Airport (LAO) : $46
  • Private Transfer from Subic Bay Cruise Port to Angeles City: $46
  • Private Transfer from Angeles City to Subic Bay Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Arrival Transfer: From Las Vegas Airport: $48
  • Manila Int Airport (MNL) to Manila - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $50
  • Transfer from Airport to Manila, Makati, Taguig and Pasay Hotel: $50
  • Private Transfer: Las Vegas to McCarran International Airport (LAS): $51

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas?

Prices for flights to both Las Vegas 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
    Las Vegas $80

Typical Food Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of dining costs in Las Vegas are as follows:


  • Coffee
    $5.00
  • Deep Fried Twinkie
    $1.07
  • Chocolate Dip Banana
    $1.07
  • Gelato
    $5.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Las Vegas

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

  • Half-Day Private Manila Food Tour: True Philippine Experience: $40
  • Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show at the Firelight Barn in Henderson: $49
  • Wranglers Gone Rock Firelight Barn Dinner Theater: $49
  • Manila Night Market and Food tour experience with Mari: $62
  • Manila Chinatown Food Tour Experience : $65
  • Manila A Walking Food Tour in the Downtown, Eat and Drink: $70
  • Makati Street Food tour Experience with Mari: $73
  • Manila Filipino Cooking Class: Meryenda Favorites: $75
  • Tournament of Kings Dinner and Show at Excalibur Hotel and Casino: $78
  • Las Vegas Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $80
  • Market Tour and Provincial Filipino Cooking Class in the Countryside: $88
  • Downtown Las Vegas Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $30
    Las Vegas $78

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 Las Vegas

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


  • Wedding Chapel
    $139
  • Atomic Testing Museum (two people)
    $12
  • Gondola Ride (4 person)
    $64
  • Monorail Ride
    $5.00
  • NY NY Rollercoaster
    $14
  • Circus Circus Adventure Dome Day Pass
    $26

Tours and Activities in Las Vegas

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

  • Red Rock Canyon: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Self-Guided Red Rock Canyon Audio Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Hoover Dam & Lake Mead: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Las Vegas’ Glitter Gulch, Ghosts and Gangsters: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Las Vegas Strip: Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Dowtown Las Vegas: $10
  • Hoover Dam: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $12
  • Self-Guided Sightseeing Highlights Digital Tour: $13
  • Hoover Dam and Lake Mead Audio-Guided Tour: $14
  • Las Vegas Natural History Museum Admission Ticket: $14
  • Vegas Highlights: Neon Lights & Desert - Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Las Vegas Strip Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour : $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Las Vegas $55

Sample the Local Flavors in Las Vegas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Las Vegas:

  • Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl: $36
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl (party bus add-on option): $36
  • Zombie Burlesque Comedy Musical Show Ticket: $50
  • Zombie Burlesque at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino: $50
  • Fremont Street Party Bus and Bar Crawl: $50
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl : $50
  • Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl: $50
  • Red Velvet Burlesque Show in Las Vegas: $55
  • Fantasy Burlesque Show at Luxor Hotel & Casino: $61
  • Ticket for Black Girl Magic Burlesque: $67
  • Nightclub and Bar Crawl with Party Bus and Drinks: $69
  • NIGHTOUT Vegas Bar Crawl: $70


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pocono Mountains and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas is more expensive. And not only is Pocono Mountains much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pocono Mountains would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pocono Mountains and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Las Vegas would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Las Vegas than you might in Pocono Mountains.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Pocono Mountains Expensive? and Is Las Vegas Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Las Vegas, 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.