A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Sonoma for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Sonoma?

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 Sonoma 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.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a relaxing, scenic, and serene county. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Pocono Mountains and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Popular beach
  • 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 Sonoma?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sonoma. Although Pocono Mountains and Sonoma are both popular with visitors, Sonoma has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sonoma is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing and museums. Sonoma is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is popular for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also home to Buena Vista Winery. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Sonoma Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

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

Sonoma is not a skiing destination.


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

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

Pocono Mountains is a region with good options for its historical sights. However, Sonoma 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.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.

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

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

Sonoma 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 Sonoma have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

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 Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

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

Sonoma has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

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 Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

Sonoma is notable for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Sonoma, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

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 Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

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

The beaches at Sonoma attract visitors from all over. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

Both Pocono Mountains and Sonoma 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 Sonoma. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.


Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Sonoma?

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

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 Sonoma Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

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

Sonoma is a family-friendly place to visit. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

Is Pocono Mountains or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is a great county for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

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 Sonoma Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

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

Sonoma is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget hotel options in the area, but not much in the form of hostels.

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

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

Pocono Mountains is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Sonoma 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 Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is Pocono Mountains or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Sonoma

Pocono Mountains is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is not a walkable region. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.


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

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Pocono Mountains or Sonoma. 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 Sonoma.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Sonoma. 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 Sonoma than Pocono Mountains. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Sonoma 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 Sonoma 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 Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pocono Mountains 3-7 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Pocono Mountains or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Sonoma. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This county offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Sonoma?

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find nightlife and food around the serene county of Sonoma. If you have a weekend, this county 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 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 Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sonoma 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 Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Pocono Mountains. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Sonoma 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, Sonoma 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 Sonoma is $219. 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 Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains or Sonoma? 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 Sonoma


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: Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $49
    Sonoma $134

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma 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
    Sonoma $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $30
    Sonoma $16

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 Sonoma

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

  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $49
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $125
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $126
  • Create your own wine blend experience: $140
  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $300

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Sonoma $41

Sample the Local Flavors in Sonoma

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

  • San Francisco: Half-Day Wine Tour with 2 Tastings Included: $189
  • Sonoma Food & Wine Tour: $235


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


Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Sonoma?

Sonoma has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Sonoma, 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 Sonoma?

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 Sonoma in the Summer?

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

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

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


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

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Sonoma in the Autumn?

Both Sonoma 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 Sonoma for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

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


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

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Sonoma in the Winter?

Both Sonoma 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 Sonoma 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 Sonoma in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Sonoma fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

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


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

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Sonoma in the Spring?

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

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

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


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

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains Sonoma
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)