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

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Providence?

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 Providence 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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Providence

Providence is a fascinating, active, and friendly city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains and Providence: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Providence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Providence 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 Providence is known for its food and nightlife. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Providence and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Providence is popular for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Providence Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Providence

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

Providence is not a skiing destination.


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

Pocono Mountains
Providence

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

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 Providence. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.

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

Pocono Mountains
Providence

Providence 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 Providence. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

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 Providence Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Providence

Providence 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 Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

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 Providence Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Providence

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Providence Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Providence

Pocono Mountains is a great region for hiking. However, Providence is not a hiking destination.

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.

Providence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Providence?

Pocono Mountains
Providence

Both Pocono Mountains and Providence 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.

Providence has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.


Is Pocono Mountains or Providence Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Providence

Pocono Mountains is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.

Is Pocono Mountains or Providence Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Providence

Pocono Mountains is a great region for couples. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

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

Pocono Mountains
Providence

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

Providence is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town for those who want an affordable place to stay.


Is Pocono Mountains or Providence Better for Students?

Pocono Mountains
Providence

Providence is notable for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Providence. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Pocono Mountains
Providence

Providence is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Providence has a few public transit options. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

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.

Is Pocono Mountains or Providence a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Providence

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

Providence is a very walkable city. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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 Providence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Providence or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Providence?

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

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Providence. 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 Providence. 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 Providence 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 Providence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pocono Mountains 3-7 
    Providence 2-3

One day in Pocono Mountains or Providence?

With museums and skiing around the scenic region of Pocono Mountains, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Providence. 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 Providence?

With skiing and food around the destination of Pocono Mountains, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the friendly city of Providence. 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 Providence?

Pocono Mountains, a popular region, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this region. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Providence 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 Providence?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this region makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Providence 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 Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Providence 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 Providence is $210. 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 Providence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Providence $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Providence $228
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Providence

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains or Providence? 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 Providence


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: Providence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $49
    Providence $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $36
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $46
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $46
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $50
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $62
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Providence to Boston’s Logan International Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $172
  • New York’s JFK International Airport to Providence – Departure Private Transfer: $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Providence?

Prices for flights to both Providence 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
    Providence $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

For Providence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $30
    Providence $26

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 Providence

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

  • Providence Scavenger Hunt: Providence Adventure: $12
  • Downtown Providence Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Providence, RI: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Providence, RI: $15
  • Self-Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Ghosts, Phantoms and Poltergeists Walking Tour: $26
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour: $30
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Providence Mob Walking Tour: $33
  • Narrated Boat Tours: $38
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Providence $13


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


Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Providence?

Providence has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Providence, 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 Providence?

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 Providence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Providence. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Providence for the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Providence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In the summer, Pocono Mountains often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Providence. Pocono Mountains gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 293 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in July than Providence. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Providence in the Autumn?

Both Providence and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Providence in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally around the same temperature as Providence. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Providence fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Providence. Pocono Mountains usually receives less sunshine than Providence during autumn. Pocono Mountains gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Providence. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C) 
    Providence 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Providence in the Winter?

Both Providence and Pocono Mountains during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Providence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Providence can be very cold during winter. Pocono Mountains can get quite cold in the winter. Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Providence in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Providence fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Pocono Mountains often gets less sunshine than Providence. Pocono Mountains gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 170 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains usually gets less rain in January than Providence. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C) 
    Providence 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Providence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Providence. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is a little warmer than Providence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Providence averages at about 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Providence this time of the year. In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pocono Mountains usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Providence during spring. Pocono Mountains gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives around the same amount of rain as Providence. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C) 
    Providence 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Providence and Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains Providence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)