A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ensenada vs. Pocono Mountains for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Ensenada or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Ensenada 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.

Ensenada

Ensenada is a cultural, outdoorsy, and historic city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Ensenada travel costs.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a magnificent, relaxing, and scenic region. Pocono Mountains is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Ensenada and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ensenada or Pocono Mountains?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains than Ensenada, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pocono Mountains is better known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Ensenada is more popular for its food, nightlife, and beaches. Ensenada is well known for its local cuisine, golf, and outdoor sports. Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Also, Pocono Mountains is famous for Bushkill Falls.

How is Ensenada different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Ensenada or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Ensenada is not a skiing destination.

People head to Pocono Mountains specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and 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.

Ensenada is not a skiing destination.

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Ensenada and Pocono Mountains.

Ensenada offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several good museums in town such as the Museo de Historia and Caracol Museo de Ciencias.

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

Ensenada 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 Ensenada. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.

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 Ensenada or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Ensenada 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 Ensenada. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.

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 Ensenada or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its resorts. However, Ensenada is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Pocono Mountains makes a nice vacation spot. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Ensenada is not a resort destination.

Is Ensenada or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Ensenada is a moderate city for the beach. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Ensenada. It's a working port town and the beaches in the area aren't great. You'll find the best options to the south of the city.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Ensenada or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

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

Ensenada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ensenada or Pocono Mountains?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pocono Mountains and Ensenada.

Ensenada offers some nice shopping areas. Avenida López Mateos is the main shopping street in town. You'll find many shops, but be prepared to pay more than you might elsewhere because shopkeepers are used to cruise ship riders who are willing to pay a high price tag.

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 Ensenada or Pocono Mountains More Beautiful?

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

Pocono Mountains is a beautiful place to visit, too. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.

Ensenada is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ensenada or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. 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.

Ensenada offers lots of family activities. You'll find ziplining, horseback riding, and surf lessons in the area. Kids will also enjoy seeing the Water Show or going whale watching.

Is Ensenada or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Ensenada is a good city for couples to visit. The city has an authentic atmosphere that will let you experience a more genuine side to Mexico.

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

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Ensenada is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and a number of cheap hotels around town.

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

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

Public transit is generally limited in Ensenada. Public transit in the area 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 Ensenada or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

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

Ensenada is a very walkable city. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Ensenada?

How long in Ensenada or Pocono Mountains?

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

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Ensenada. 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 Ensenada. 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 Ensenada 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 Ensenada or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Ensenada. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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 Ensenada or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural city of Ensenada. 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 Ensenada or Pocono Mountains?

Ensenada 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 Ensenada or Pocono Mountains?

Ensenada 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ensenada or Pocono Mountains?

Ensenada has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Ensenada 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.