A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs?

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 Palm Springs 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 shopping, museums, and skiing.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a ritzy, chic, and outdoorsy city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Pocono Mountains and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Pocono Mountains and Palm Springs are popular destinations, Palm Springs has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palm Springs is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Pocono Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also well known for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is notable for snow skiing. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not a skiing destination.

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

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Pocono Mountains and Palm Springs.

Pocono Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palm Springs. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

Is the Food Better in Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

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 Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

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

Palm Springs is a world class party destination. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

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 Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

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 Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Both Pocono Mountains and Palm Springs are destinations which offer superb 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 Palm Springs. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

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 Palm Springs Better for Families?

Both Pocono Mountains and Palm Springs are superb 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 Palm Springs. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

Is Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Both Pocono Mountains and Palm Springs are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Palm Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

Is Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city 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.

Palm Springs is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While the city is more famous for its upscale clientele, there's actually a hostel in town for backpackers.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

Is Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Palm Springs is a city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Palm Springs is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

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 Palm Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs. 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 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

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

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

One day in Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs?

In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this magnificent region offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the chic destination of Palm Springs. 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 Palm Springs?

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the outdoorsy city of Palm Springs. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. 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 Palm Springs?

In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the museums and skiing that this beautiful destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Palm Springs 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 nightlife. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs?

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

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 Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Pocono Mountains is generally around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 75°F (24°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. In July, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

Both Palm Springs and Pocono Mountains during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Pocono Mountains is much colder than Palm Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Palm Springs. The winter months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year.

The weather in Pocono Mountains can be very cold. In the winter, Pocono Mountains is much colder than Palm Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pocono Mountains in January average around 28°F (-2°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In January, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Palm Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Palm Springs. The natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In April, Pocono Mountains is generally much colder than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 51°F (11°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Pocono Mountains