A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley 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 relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the skiing, food, and hiking.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a picturesque, idyllic, and scenic area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Pocono Mountains and Napa Valley: 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley?

Both Napa Valley and Pocono Mountains have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, museums, and resorts, while Napa Valley is known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Napa Valley is popular for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Napa Valley is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Napa Valley is not a skiing destination.


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

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

Pocono Mountains is a region with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and 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.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.

Is the Food Better in Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

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

Napa Valley has plenty to do after the sun goes down. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

Pocono Mountains is a region with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

Both Pocono Mountains and Napa Valley are destinations which offer great hiking.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Napa Valley. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley?

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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 Napa Valley Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

Pocono Mountains is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pocono Mountains. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

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 Napa Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

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

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

Napa Valley is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's considered to be more of a luxury destination than a backpacker's retreat, but there are a few affordable places to stay in the area.


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

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

Pocono Mountains is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Napa Valley

Pocono Mountains is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

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.

Napa Valley is not a walkable region. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Napa Valley. 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 Napa Valley than Pocono Mountains. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Pocono Mountains.


  • How many days in Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pocono Mountains 3-7 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the relaxing region of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Napa Valley. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This region offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic area of Napa Valley. If you have a weekend, this area 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 food. 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 Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful region of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this region.

Napa Valley 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 food. 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, Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley is $288. 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 Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley? 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 Napa Valley


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: Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $49
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

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

  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110
  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $30
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Pocono Mountains

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

  • Delaware Water Gap Air Tour: $141
  • Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour: $64

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $25
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley "Up Valley" Castle Tour : $125
  • The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour: $125
  • Sonoma Valley Open Air Wine Trolley Tour: $125
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Sonoma Valley: $130
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

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

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pocono Mountains and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Napa Valley. The summer months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Napa Valley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In the summer, Pocono Mountains often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Pocono Mountains gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in July than Napa Valley. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally cooler than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. Pocono Mountains usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during autumn. Pocono Mountains gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley in the Winter?

Both Napa Valley and Pocono Mountains during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Pocono Mountains. Pocono Mountains is much colder than Napa Valley in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In the winter, Pocono Mountains often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Pocono Mountains gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains usually gets less rain in January than Napa Valley. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Napa Valley. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is cooler than Napa Valley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pocono Mountains usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during spring. Pocono Mountains gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)