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

Should you visit Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Williamsburg and Pocono Mountains. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a historic, charming, and quaint town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Pocono Mountains

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

Williamsburg and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • 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 Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains?

Both Pocono Mountains and Williamsburg have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Williamsburg is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing, resorts, and hiking. Williamsburg is popular for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Williamsburg different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a skiing destination.


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

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

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

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

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 Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

It's hard to distinguish whether Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains has a better nightlife scene.

Williamsburg is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Pocono Mountains doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. 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 Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its resorts. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

Is Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Williamsburg is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Pocono Mountains does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Williamsburg can be explored in its historical center. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Pocono Mountains does not have a historic old town.

Is Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

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 Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is an extremely popular town to visit for families. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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 Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Williamsburg and Pocono Mountains both very good destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Williamsburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Pocono Mountains is a great town if you're traveling as 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 Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for backpackers. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options 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.

Williamsburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a number of restaurants and bars that cater to the student population, but there's little else that attracts backpackers.

Is Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

Williamsburg is a must-visit destination for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Williamsburg is a very popular town for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Williamsburg and Pocono Mountains.

Public transit is generally limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

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 Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Williamsburg
Pocono Mountains

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

Williamsburg is generally not very walkable. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

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 Williamsburg Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains?

Both Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Williamsburg, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Williamsburg 2-4 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find museums and food around the well-preserved destination of Williamsburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 food and shopping that this beautiful region offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic town of Williamsburg. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains?

Williamsburg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the museums and skiing that this scenic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains?

Williamsburg is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Pocono Mountains is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


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 Williamsburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Williamsburg is $112, 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 Williamsburg and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Williamsburg $66
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Williamsburg $132
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Williamsburg and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg


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: Williamsburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Williamsburg $11
    Pocono Mountains $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Williamsburg 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
    Williamsburg $31
    Pocono Mountains $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Williamsburg

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

  • Taste of Williamsburg Food Tour by Junket: $79
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $84

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Williamsburg $34
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Williamsburg

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Williamsburg by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Colonial Self-Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Colonial Williamsburg Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15
  • Williamsburg East Ghost Tour: $16
  • Yorktown Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour: $20
  • The Original Ghost of Williamsburg Candlelight Walking Tour: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Williamsburg by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Colonial Christmas Walking Tour: $20
  • Yorktown Hallowed Ground Candlelight Walking Tour: $20
  • Colonial Williamsburg & Yorktown Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: $25

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
    Williamsburg -
    Pocono Mountains $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Williamsburg

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

  • Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $35
  • The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl: $48


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Williamsburg and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Pocono Mountains is more expensive. And not only is Williamsburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Williamsburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg.

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


Which is Bigger, Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains?

Williamsburg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Williamsburg and Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Williamsburg for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Williamsburg is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 78°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 Williamsburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Williamsburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during summer. Williamsburg gets 279 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. Williamsburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Williamsburg usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Williamsburg gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Williamsburg as well as Pocono Mountains. The autumn months attract visitors to Williamsburg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

Williamsburg is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg this time of the year. In the autumn, Williamsburg often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Williamsburg gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pocono Mountains. Williamsburg 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
    Williamsburg 61°F (16°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Williamsburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Pocono Mountains. It's quite cold in Williamsburg in the winter. In the winter, Williamsburg is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Williamsburg in January average around 38°F (4°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Williamsburg usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Williamsburg gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Williamsburg usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Williamsburg gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Williamsburg 38°F (4°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Williamsburg or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Williamsburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Williamsburg for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Williamsburg is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 57°F (14°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 Williamsburg. In the spring, Williamsburg often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Williamsburg gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Williamsburg gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Williamsburg 57°F (14°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Williamsburg

Williamsburg Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 38°F (4°C) 3.6 inches (93 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 57°F (14°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.6 inches (118 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 52°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 43°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)