A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Vail for Skiing, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Vail?

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 Vail 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's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Vail

Vail is a upscale, resort-filled, and charming ski town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Pocono Mountains and Vail: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Vail?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vail than Pocono Mountains, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vail is better known for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Pocono Mountains is more popular for its museums. Vail is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is popular for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. Also, Vail is famous for The Vail Ski Resort. Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Vail Better for Skiing?

Vail is a must-visit destination for snow skiing. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for skiing and snowboarding.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Vail. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

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.

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

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Vail offer a number of notable 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.

Vail is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Pocono Mountains or Vail Better for Nightlife?

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

Vail has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

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 Vail Better for Music?

Vail is a ski town 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 Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Vail Better for Resorts?

Vail 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 Vail, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

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 Vail Better for Hiking?

Both Pocono Mountains and Vail are destinations which offer excellent 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 Vail. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Vail?

Vail 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.

Vail is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

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 Vail Better for Christmas?

Vail is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Pocono Mountains does not offer Christmas activities.

Vail is a fantastic destination at Christmas. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Pocono Mountains does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Pocono Mountains or Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

Vail is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Pocono Mountains does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people head to Vail to see its Christmas markets. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Pocono Mountains does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Pocono Mountains or Vail Better for Families?

Vail 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.

Vail is an extremely popular ski town to visit for families. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

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 Vail Better for Couples?

Vail 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.

Vail is a great ski town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for backpackers.

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

Vail is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

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

Vail has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

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 Vail a more walkable city?

Vail is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Vail on foot. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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 Vail Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vail or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Vail?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vail 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 Vail.

One day in Pocono Mountains or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the live music and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Vail?

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail is a small town with plenty to do. 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 skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the magnificent destination of Pocono Mountains. This region offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Vail 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 Vail?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the scenic region of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Vail 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. Most people head to the area for the skiing. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Vail?

Vail has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Vail, 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.