A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Phoenix for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix 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.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a desert, laid back, and sprawling city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Pocono Mountains and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Phoenix?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Phoenix are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Phoenix is known for its nightlife. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Phoenix and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Phoenix is popular for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Phoenix Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is not a skiing destination.

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

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Pocono Mountains and Phoenix.

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 Phoenix. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Phoenix offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Pocono Mountains. 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.

Phoenix is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Pocono Mountains or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Phoenix is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

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 Phoenix Better for Resorts?

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

Phoenix is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for hiking. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails. 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.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Phoenix?

Both Pocono Mountains and Phoenix are good shopping destinations.

Pocono Mountains offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Phoenix has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Pocono Mountains or Phoenix Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Pocono Mountains or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Pocono Mountains is a great region if you're traveling as 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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

Pocono Mountains is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Phoenix offer decent 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 Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Is Pocono Mountains or Phoenix a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains and Phoenix both are decent when exploring on foot.

Pocono Mountains is generally not very walkable. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable region. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Phoenix?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pocono Mountains and Phoenix. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Phoenix. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 1-3 days is enough time in Phoenix.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the sprawling destination of Phoenix. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Phoenix?

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the laid back city of Phoenix. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Phoenix?

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Phoenix is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Pocono Mountains or Phoenix?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. In Pocono Mountains, you'll find museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Phoenix is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 430 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Phoenix, 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Phoenix. 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 Phoenix this time of year.

Phoenix can become quite hot in the summer. In the summer, Pocono Mountains is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Phoenix averages at about 98°F (36°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. 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 Phoenix. Pocono Mountains gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 380 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in July than Phoenix. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Phoenix in the Autumn?

Both Phoenix 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 Phoenix for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally much colder than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. Pocono Mountains usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during autumn. Pocono Mountains gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 305 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Phoenix in the Winter?

Both Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Pocono Mountains often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Pocono Mountains gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 254 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in January than Phoenix. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Phoenix in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Phoenix. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Phoenix averages at about 74°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pocono Mountains usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during spring. Pocono Mountains gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 355 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Pocono Mountains