A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. San Francisco for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or San Francisco?

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 San Francisco 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 museums, skiing, and food.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and quirky coastal city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Pocono Mountains and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or San Francisco?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Francisco. Although Pocono Mountains and San Francisco are both popular with visitors, San Francisco has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Francisco is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing and resorts. San Francisco is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also home to The Golden Gate Bridge. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Pocono Mountains different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or San Francisco Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is not a skiing destination.

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

San Francisco is a must-visit destination 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in San Francisco are among the most recognizable in the world. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car 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 San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a coastal city with good options for its theatre productions. However, Pocono Mountains is not a theatre destination.

San Francisco offers a number of shows and performances. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Pocono Mountains is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco 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 San Francisco have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

San Francisco is a coastal 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 San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

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 San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is a coastal city with good options for its live music scene. However, Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or San Francisco Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is notable for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

The beaches at San Francisco attract visitors from all over. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Around San Francisco visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pocono Mountains. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or San Francisco?

San Francisco 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 San Francisco make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

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 San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

San Francisco is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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.

Is Pocono Mountains or San Francisco Better for Couples?

Both Pocono Mountains and San Francisco are high quality 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.

San Francisco makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Pocono Mountains or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Pocono Mountains and San Francisco are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Pocono Mountains is a great region to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Is Pocono Mountains or San Francisco Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in San Francisco. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

San Francisco has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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 San Francisco a more walkable city?

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

San Francisco is a very walkable coastal city. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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 San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or San Francisco?

Both Pocono Mountains and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, San Francisco has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Francisco than Pocono Mountains. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Pocono Mountains 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 San Francisco.

One day in Pocono Mountains or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the scenic destination of Pocono Mountains. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and San Francisco, 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 San Francisco?

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 San Francisco in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as San Francisco. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is a little warmer than San Francisco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and San Francisco averages at about 63°F (17°C).

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

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or San Francisco in the Autumn?

Both San Francisco and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally cooler than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

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

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or San Francisco in the Winter?

Both San Francisco and Pocono Mountains during the winter are popular places to visit. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Pocono Mountains in the winter. Pocono Mountains is much colder than San Francisco in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

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

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or San Francisco in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and San Francisco. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Francisco in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is cooler than San Francisco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and San Francisco averages at about 58°F (14°C).

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

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Pocono Mountains