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

Should you visit New Bern or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit New Bern 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.

New Bern

New Bern is a quaint, charming, and laid back town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See New Bern travel costs.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a magnificent, relaxing, and scenic region. Pocono Mountains is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

New Bern and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Bern or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although New Bern and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Pocono Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pocono Mountains is very popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while New Bern attracts visitors for its small town charm. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than New Bern and is known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also well known for Bushkill Falls. New Bern is famous for being the birthplace of Pepsi.

How is New Bern different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is New Bern or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is well known for winter skiing. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern is not a skiing destination.

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

Both New Bern and Pocono Mountains have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

New Bern is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many visitors check out the Tryon Palace while they're in town. Other museums include the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery, and the New Bern Academy Museum.

Pocono Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 New Bern or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both New Bern and Pocono Mountains can be an enjoyable experience.

New Bern offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of local eateries, bistros, and cafes in town. You can sample southern favorites or something international. Popular dishes include fresh caught fish, crab cakes, and even tacos.

Pocono Mountains has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 New Bern or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in New Bern and Pocono Mountains.

New Bern is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are a couple of pubs and breweries around town.

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 New Bern or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

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

Pocono Mountains has a handful of resorts to choose from. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

New Bern is not a resort destination.

Is New Bern or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking experiences. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Bern or Pocono Mountains?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pocono Mountains and New Bern.

New Bern is a great destination for shopping. There are local shops and boutiques that sell clothing, antiques, and gifts.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 New Bern or Pocono Mountains More Beautiful?

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

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

New Bern is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is New Bern or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, New Bern is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Pocono Mountains is 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.

For families, New Bern is not always the best place to visit. Stand up paddle boarding and other outdoor activities are a fun way to experience the area with kids. You could also visit the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Tryon Palace, or one of the parks around town.

Is New Bern or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is well known for romance. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

New Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town's charm and quaint parks make this a nice weekend getaway. There are outdoor activities and the Tryon Palace which is nice to visit. There are also local restaurants around town.

Is New Bern or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is well known for backpackers. However, New Bern is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

New Bern is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not popular with backpackers in part because it's a small town that most people breeze through on their way to the beach.

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

Pocono Mountains is a region with a few options for its public transit. However, New Bern is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is quite limited in New Bern. There's no real public transit in the area.

Is New Bern or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

New Bern 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.

New Bern is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable and nice to 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 New Bern Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or New Bern?

How long in New Bern or Pocono Mountains?

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

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

New Bern is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town 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 New Bern or Pocono Mountains?

New Bern is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

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 New Bern or Pocono Mountains?

New Bern 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 New Bern or Pocono Mountains?

New Bern 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, New Bern or Pocono Mountains?

New Bern has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of New Bern 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 New Bern 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 New Bern or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

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

In the summer, New Bern is around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in New Bern in July average around 80°F (27°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 75°F (24°C).

Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. New Bern gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, New Bern usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. New Bern gets 6.6 inches (169 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit New Bern or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to New Bern as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to New Bern for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere 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.

In October, New Bern is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in New Bern average around 65°F (18°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

New Bern usually gets more rain in October than Pocono Mountains. New Bern gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Bern or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and New Bern are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to New Bern 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. New Bern is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in New Bern averages around 44°F (7°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

It's quite rainy in New Bern. In January, New Bern usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. New Bern gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit New Bern or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and New Bern during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm are the main draw to New Bern this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In the spring, New Bern is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in New Bern in April average around 62°F (16°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 51°F (11°C).

New Bern usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. New Bern gets 2.9 inches (74 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 New Bern