A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pensacola vs. Pocono Mountains for Food, Resorts, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Pensacola or Pocono Mountains?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pensacola and Pocono Mountains can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a active, entertaining, and fun-filled beach town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Pensacola travel costs.

Pocono Mountains

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

Pensacola and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pensacola or Pocono Mountains?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pensacola than Pocono Mountains, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pensacola is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Pensacola is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. Also, Pensacola is famous for Gulf Islands National Seashore. Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Pensacola different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pensacola or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is notable for snow skiing. However, Pensacola 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.

Pensacola is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Pensacola offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's 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 Pensacola or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pensacola 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 Pensacola. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

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 Pensacola or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Pensacola is a beach town 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 Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

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 Pensacola or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Pensacola is notable for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Pensacola, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

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 Pensacola or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

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

Pensacola is considered to be a world-class beach destination. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Pensacola or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its hiking trails.

Pocono Mountains is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Pocono Mountains?

Both Pensacola and Pocono Mountains are notable shopping destinations.

Pensacola offers some nice shopping areas. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

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 Pensacola or Pocono Mountains More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Pensacola 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.

Pensacola is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pensacola or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Pensacola or Pocono Mountains.

Pensacola is a very kid-friendly beach town. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

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 Pensacola or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Both Pensacola and Pocono Mountains are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Pensacola is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

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 Pensacola or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is notable for backpackers. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town 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.

Pensacola is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget-friendly places to stay, particularly away from the beach.

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

Pocono Mountains is a moderate region for its public transit. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town 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 Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Pensacola or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Pensacola and Pocono Mountains both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Pensacola is generally not very walkable. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable beach 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 Pensacola Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Pensacola?

How long in Pensacola or Pocono Mountains?

Both Pensacola and Pocono Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Pocono Mountains has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Pocono Mountains than Pensacola. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Pensacola than Pocono Mountains. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Pensacola 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and shopping around the fun-filled destination of Pensacola. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and museums around the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Pensacola or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the entertaining beach town of Pensacola. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

You'll find museums and skiing around the scenic destination of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Pensacola or Pocono Mountains?

Pensacola is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

You'll find skiing and food around the magnificent region of Pocono Mountains. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this region makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer.

A week in Pensacola or Pocono Mountains?

Pensacola is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Pocono Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pocono Mountains, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Pensacola and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Pensacola 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 Pensacola Expensive? and Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pensacola or Pocono Mountains?

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Pensacola are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pensacola for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Pensacola is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains in the summer. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. It's quite rainy in Pensacola. In July, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Pensacola gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pensacola or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Pensacola during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pensacola in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Pensacola is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pensacola in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 55°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pensacola. Pensacola usually gets more rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Pensacola gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Pensacola is June to November.

Should I visit Pensacola or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pensacola and Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Pensacola for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Pocono Mountains can be very cold. In January, Pensacola is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 51°F (10°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Pensacola gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Pensacola gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pensacola or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pensacola as well as Pocono Mountains. The spring months attract visitors to Pensacola because of the beaches. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

Pensacola is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the spring. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 67°F (20°C) in April, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Pensacola usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Pensacola gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Pensacola