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

Should you visit Richmond or Pocono Mountains?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Richmond and Pocono Mountains can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a growing, friendly, and historical city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains

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

Richmond and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Richmond or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Richmond 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, and impressive beauty, while Richmond is known for its museums and nightlife. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Richmond and is known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Richmond is popular for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Richmond different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Richmond or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is notable for snow skiing. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a skiing destination.


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

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Richmond is notable 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Richmond. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

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

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Foodies will find both Richmond and Pocono Mountains both to be good destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Richmond area. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

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 Richmond or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Richmond 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 Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

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 Richmond or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is very good for its resorts. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a resort destination.

Is Richmond or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond is not a hiking destination.

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.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or Pocono Mountains?

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Both Richmond and Pocono Mountains are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Richmond to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Pocono Mountains. 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 Richmond or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Richmond or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

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

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is notable for backpackers. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Richmond is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination, and most people breeze through town.


Is Richmond or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Richmond is a city with good options for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Richmond is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Both Richmond and Pocono Mountains offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

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 Richmond or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Richmond
Pocono Mountains

Richmond is a city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Richmond is a somewhat walkable place. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by 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 Richmond Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or Pocono Mountains?

Both Richmond 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 Richmond. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Richmond, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Richmond. 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 Richmond. 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 Richmond 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 Richmond or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Richmond 1-2 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Richmond or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Richmond. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The region of Pocono Mountains offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Richmond or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the growing city of Richmond. 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.

Pocono Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Richmond or Pocono Mountains?

Richmond 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pocono Mountains, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Richmond or Pocono Mountains?

Richmond 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.

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer. This region offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Richmond?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $161, 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 Richmond and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Richmond 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 Richmond


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: Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Pocono Mountains $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Richmond or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Richmond 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
    Richmond $21
    Pocono Mountains $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

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

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Richmond $13
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Richmond

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Richmond Ghosts: Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour: $26
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $30
  • Phantoms of Franklin Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Court End Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour: $30
  • Downtown & Capitol Square Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30

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
    Richmond -
    Pocono Mountains $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

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

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


When comparing the travel costs between Richmond and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Pocono Mountains 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 Richmond Expensive? and Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Richmond or Pocono Mountains?

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Richmond are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Richmond for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Richmond is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 78°F (26°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. Richmond usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during summer. Richmond gets 305 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. It's quite rainy in Richmond. In July, Richmond usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Richmond gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Richmond 78°F (26°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Richmond during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Richmond in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Richmond is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 59°F (15°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Richmond. In the autumn, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Richmond gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Richmond usually gets more rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Richmond gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Richmond 59°F (15°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Richmond and Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Richmond for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Pocono Mountains can be very cold. Richmond can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Richmond is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Richmond in January average around 36°F (2°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Richmond usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Richmond gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Richmond usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Richmond gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Richmond 36°F (2°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Richmond as well as Pocono Mountains. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In April, Richmond is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 58°F (14°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In the spring, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Richmond gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Richmond usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Richmond gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Richmond 58°F (14°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Richmond

Richmond Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)