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

Should you visit Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Raleigh or Pocono Mountains? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a suburban-style, friendly, and southern city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a magnificent, relaxing, and scenic region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Raleigh and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Raleigh and Pocono Mountains 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, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Raleigh is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Raleigh and is known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Raleigh is popular for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Raleigh different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Raleigh or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is well known for winter skiing. However, Raleigh is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. 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.

Raleigh is not a skiing destination.


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

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Raleigh or Pocono Mountains.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Raleigh. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Pocono Mountains is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 the Food Better in Raleigh or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

Both Raleigh and Pocono Mountains offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Raleigh area. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

Is Raleigh or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

Raleigh 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 Raleigh. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

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 Raleigh or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its resorts. However, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is not a resort destination.

Is Raleigh or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Pocono Mountains to go shopping. 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.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Raleigh or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Pocono Mountains is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Raleigh or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is well known for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Couples visit Pocono Mountains frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

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

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is well known for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Raleigh or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

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

Students come from all over to stay in Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a region with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Raleigh or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Raleigh
Pocono Mountains

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

Raleigh is generally not very walkable. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Raleigh Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

Both Raleigh and Pocono Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Raleigh. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Raleigh, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

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

One day in Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Raleigh. 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.

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.

A weekend in Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find nightlife and food around the southern city of Raleigh. 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.

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.

Five days in Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

Raleigh 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.

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.


A week in Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

Raleigh 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.

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.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Raleigh?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Raleigh is $189, while the average daily cost in Pocono Mountains is $174. 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 Raleigh and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Raleigh $104
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Raleigh $208
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Raleigh and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Raleigh or Pocono Mountains? 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 Raleigh


Hotels in Pocono Mountains


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: Raleigh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Pocono Mountains $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

  • Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer: $59
  • Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Arrival Private Transfer: $63
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $119
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $126

Is it cheaper to fly into Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Raleigh 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
    Raleigh $57
    Pocono Mountains $53
Typical Food Prices in Raleigh

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Raleigh:


  • The Pit Authentic BBQ (for 3)
    $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Raleigh

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Raleigh.

  • Private Cooking Class in Durham with an Expert Home Cook: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Raleigh

Here are a few actual costs in Raleigh for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Durham by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Raleigh African American History Tour: $13
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC: $15
  • Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour: $16
  • True Crime History Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Ghost and Urban Legend Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Downtown: Historic Walking Tours: $16
  • Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Walking Tour: $26
  • Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour: $30
  • Raleigh Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Trolley Pub Public Tour of Raleigh: $45

Tours and Activities in Pocono Mountains

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pocono Mountains are as follows:

  • Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour: $64
  • Delaware Water Gap Air Tour: $141

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Raleigh $27
    Pocono Mountains $13


When comparing the travel costs between Raleigh and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Raleigh is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Raleigh Expensive? and Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh and Pocono Mountains, 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 Raleigh or Pocono Mountains?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Raleigh or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Raleigh is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 79°F (26°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. Raleigh usually receives less sunshine than Pocono Mountains during summer. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. Raleigh gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the city's sights and attractions during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Raleigh is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 61°F (16°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In the autumn, Raleigh often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pocono Mountains. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

It's quite cold in Pocono Mountains in the winter. The weather in Raleigh can be very cold. In the winter, Raleigh is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Raleigh in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Raleigh usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Raleigh during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In April, Raleigh is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 60°F (16°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the spring, Raleigh often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Raleigh

Raleigh Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)