A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Boulder for Skiing, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Boulder?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pocono Mountains and Boulder can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. Pocono Mountains is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Boulder

Boulder is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and biker-friendly city. Boulder is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food. See Boulder travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Boulder?

Both Boulder and Pocono Mountains have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Pocono Mountains is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, and resorts, while Boulder is more popular for its nightlife and music. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Boulder and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Boulder is well known for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Boulder is not known for snow skiing.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Pocono Mountains. 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.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Boulder for snow skiing. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

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

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Boulder is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

Is the Food Better in Pocono Mountains or Boulder? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Pocono Mountains and Boulder offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Boulder is becoming an appealing option for foodies. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Pocono Mountains or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Boulder 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 Boulder. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

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 Pocono Mountains or Boulder Better for Music?

Boulder is a city with good options for its live music scene. However, Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boulder. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Boulder Better for Resorts?

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

Boulder is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Both Pocono Mountains and Boulder are destinations which offer very good hiking.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Boulder. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Boulder?

Both Pocono Mountains and Boulder are notable shopping destinations.

Pocono Mountains offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Boulder has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Pocono Mountains or Boulder More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains and Boulder are somewhat similar when it comes to the notable scenery.

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

Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.

Is Pocono Mountains or Boulder Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Pocono Mountains is very family-friendly. 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.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Pocono Mountains or Boulder Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for its romantic activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Pocono Mountains is a great region 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.

Boulder is a good region for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

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

Pocono Mountains is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boulder. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Is Pocono Mountains or Boulder Better for Students?

Boulder is notable for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Boulder. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Boulder offer respectable public transit options.

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 mostly limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

Is Pocono Mountains or Boulder a more walkable city?

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

Boulder is a somewhat walkable place. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable region. 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 Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Boulder Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pocono Mountains and Boulder. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Boulder. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 2-3 days is enough time in Boulder.

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

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find live music and food around the nature-filled destination of Boulder. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Boulder?

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find food and shopping around the biker-friendly city of Boulder. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Boulder?

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Boulder is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Pocono Mountains or Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. In Pocono Mountains, you'll find museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Boulder is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Boulder, 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.