A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pocono Mountains vs. Calgary for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Calgary?

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

Calgary

Calgary is a local, authentic, and western city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Calgary travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Calgary: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Calgary?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains than Calgary, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pocono Mountains is better known for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Calgary is more popular for its nightlife. Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Also, Pocono Mountains is famous for Bushkill Falls. Calgary is well known for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Calgary?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Calgary Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is well known for winter skiing. However, Calgary 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.

Calgary is not a skiing destination.

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

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

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Calgary. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.

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

Pocono Mountains is a region with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.

Is Pocono Mountains or Calgary Better for Nightlife?

Calgary 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 Calgary. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.

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 Calgary Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is a region with good options for its resorts. However, Calgary 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.

Calgary is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Calgary Better for Hiking?

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

Calgary is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Calgary?

Both Pocono Mountains and Calgary 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.

Calgary has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.

Is Pocono Mountains or Calgary More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains is a region with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Calgary 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.

Calgary is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pocono Mountains or Calgary Better for Families?

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

Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.

Is Pocono Mountains or Calgary Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Calgary 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.

Calgary is a good region for couples to visit. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.

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

Pocono Mountains is well known for backpackers. Also, Calgary 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.

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

Calgary is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Calgary has a few public transit options. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.

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 Pocono Mountains or Calgary a more walkable city?

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

Pocono Mountains is generally not very walkable. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

Calgary is generally not a very walkable region. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.

For even more information, also check out Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Calgary or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Calgary?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Pocono Mountains or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Pocono Mountains than Calgary because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 1-2 days is enough time in Calgary.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Calgary. 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 Calgary. 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 Calgary 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 Calgary?

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 museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Calgary. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Calgary?

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 nightlife and shopping around the local city of Calgary. 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.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Calgary?

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.

Calgary 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.

A week in Pocono Mountains or Calgary?

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.

Calgary 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.

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 Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.

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

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 Calgary Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Calgary?

Calgary has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Calgary, 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.