A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Pocono Mountains for Attractions, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Tulum or Pocono Mountains?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Pocono Mountains 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.

Tulum

Tulum is a archeological, tropical, and active town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a scenic, beautiful, and magnificent region. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking.

Tulum and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tulum. Although Tulum and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Tulum has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tulum is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing. Tulum is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also well known for the Tulum archeological ruins. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Tulum different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tulum or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Tulum is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. 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.

Tulum is not a skiing destination.

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

Tulum 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 Tulum are among the most recognizable in the world. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

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 Tulum or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Tulum. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

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 Tulum or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

Tulum is a world class party destination. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

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 Tulum or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

Tulum is a world class resort vacation destination. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

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 Tulum or Pocono Mountains Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Tulum is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Tulum is considered to be a world-class beach destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Both Tulum and Pocono Mountains are destinations which offer great hiking.

Tulum is a popular spot for hiking. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

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 Tulum or Pocono Mountains?

Tulum 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.

Tulum is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

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 Tulum or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Both Tulum and Pocono Mountains are great to visit with kids.

Tulum is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Pocono Mountains is very family-friendly. 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 Tulum or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Tulum 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.

Tulum is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

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 Tulum or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Tulum and Pocono Mountains are great destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

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

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

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

Tulum has a few public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

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 Tulum or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

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

Tulum is a very walkable town. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Pocono Mountains?

Both Tulum 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 Tulum. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

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

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

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

One day in Tulum or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the archeological destination of Tulum. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this magnificent destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tulum or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the tropical town of Tulum. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Pocono Mountains?

Tulum 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.

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tulum or Pocono Mountains?

Tulum 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 find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this magnificent destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tulum and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Pocono Mountains is more expensive. And not only is Tulum much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tulum would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tulum 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 Pocono Mountains would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pocono Mountains than you might in Tulum.

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Pocono Mountains?

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Tulum because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In the summer, Tulum is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tulum in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 75°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Pocono Mountains during summer. Tulum gets 232 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 Tulum. In July, Tulum usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tulum or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Tulum during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Tulum is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the autumn, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually gets more rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Also, June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Tulum or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Pocono Mountains. Many travelers come to Tulum for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Pocono Mountains can get quite cold in the winter. Tulum is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tulum usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tulum or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Tulum in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Tulum is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tulum in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 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 Tulum this time of the year. In the spring, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Also, the hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Tulum