A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chapel Hill vs. Pocono Mountains for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Chapel Hill 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.

Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is a southern, student-oriented, and collegiate town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Chapel Hill travel costs.

Pocono Mountains

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

Chapel Hill and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill is known for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Chapel Hill and is known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Chapel Hill is popular for being the home of the oldest public university in the United States.

How is Chapel Hill different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is well known for winter skiing. However, Chapel Hill 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.

Chapel Hill is not a skiing destination.

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

Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill. Many of the museums are affiliated with UNC. A highlight of many trips is a visit to the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. Hours can vary, so check the schedule ahead of time. Also worth visiting are the Ackland Art Museum and the Carolina Basketball Museum.

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 Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Chapel Hill and Pocono Mountains offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chapel Hill area. Students often eat on Franklin Street, which has a diverse mix of casual and slightly nicer restaurants. You'll find Indian food, Mediterranean, Italian, and Greek. The city also has excellent barbecue and other southern favorites.

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 Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

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

Chapel Hill has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Most of the nightlife is centered around the student population. Franklin Street has a number of bars where students hang out. There are also parties hosted by fraternities and sororities. Things are quieter during the summer months when students are mostly gone.

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 Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

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

Chapel Hill is not a resort destination.

Is Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Chapel Hill 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.

Chapel Hill is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pocono Mountains and Chapel Hill.

Many visitors go to Chapel Hill to go shopping. There are a mix of local shops, larger shopping centers, and suburban malls. There are also weekly farmer's markets that are fun to check out.

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 Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Chapel Hill is not a destination known for its beauty.

Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.

Chapel Hill is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chapel Hill 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.

Chapel Hill offers lots of family activities. You can wander around the UNC campus or visit one of the museums affiliated with the school. This includes a planetarium that has regular shows and movies (The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center). There are also science exhibits geared specifically towards kids.

Is Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is well known for couples. Also, Chapel Hill is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Chapel Hill is a nice destination for couples. There's an eclectic mix of restaurants on Franklin Street. Couples will also enjoy exploring the campus at UNC, visiting the botanical garden, or checking out one of the town's museums.

Is Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is well known for backpackers. However, Chapel Hill is not particularly known 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.

Chapel Hill is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a young population thanks to the university, but there's little else to attract backpackers.

Is Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

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

Chapel Hill is a very popular town for students. It's a quintessential college town. UNC has a nice campus and Franklin Street is the main spot for restaurants and shopping. Most of the students live near or on campus, but once you head further out things get more suburban.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Chapel Hill 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.

Chapel Hill has a few public transit options. There are bus routes that operate between Chapel Hill and Carrboro.

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 Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

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

Chapel Hill is a somewhat walkable place. The area around UNC is the most walkable part of town. Elsewhere things are very suburban and you'll 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 Chapel Hill Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Chapel Hill?

How long in Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains?

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

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Chapel Hill. 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 Chapel Hill. 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 Chapel Hill 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.

One day in Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the student-oriented destination of Chapel Hill. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the beautiful region of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the southern town of Chapel Hill. If you have a weekend, this town 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the magnificent destination of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This region offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains?

Chapel Hill 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the magnificent region of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains?

Chapel Hill 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this region.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill Expensive? and Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains?

Chapel Hill has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

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

In July, Chapel Hill is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chapel Hill usually receives less sunshine than Pocono Mountains during summer. Chapel Hill 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. Chapel Hill gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chapel Hill usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Chapel Hill gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chapel Hill as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Chapel Hill for the shopping scene 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.

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

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

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Chapel Hill are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Chapel Hill because of the museums, the shopping scene, 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 Chapel Hill can be very cold. In the winter, Chapel Hill is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chapel Hill in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

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

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

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Chapel Hill during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In April, Chapel Hill is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill. In the spring, Chapel Hill often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Chapel Hill gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Chapel Hill