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

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks?

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 Fairbanks 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 beautiful, magnificent, and relaxing region. Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a outdoorsy, remote, and Arctic city. You'll find world class beauty in Fairbanks as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and hiking. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Fairbanks are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, and resorts, while Fairbanks is known for its impressive beauty. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Fairbanks is popular for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for winter skiing.

Pocono Mountains draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Locals like to visit Fairbanks to take advantage of their winter sports. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

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

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Pocono Mountains and Fairbanks.

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 Fairbanks. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

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

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Both Pocono Mountains and Fairbanks are destinations which offer excellent 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 Fairbanks. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks?

Both Pocono Mountains and Fairbanks are good 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.

Fairbanks has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

Is Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Fairbanks as well. The city offers access to Alaska's interior, as well as the Arctic. The scenery is spectacular and the wildlife is abundant. Fairbanks is also the best place in Alaska to see the Northern Lights. They are best seen between the months of August and April.

Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.

Is Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fairbanks. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Fairbanks are excellent destinations for backpackers.

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 budget travelers and backpackers visit Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

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

Pocono Mountains is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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.

Fairbanks is not a walkable region. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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.

You'll find museums and shopping around the unique destination of Fairbanks. 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 Fairbanks?

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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the unique city of Fairbanks. 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 Fairbanks?

You'll find skiing and food around the scenic 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.

Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks?

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.

Fairbanks 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pocono Mountains and Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks is more expensive. And not only is Pocono Mountains much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pocono Mountains would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pocono Mountains 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 Fairbanks would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fairbanks than you might in Pocono Mountains.

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 Fairbanks Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Fairbanks, 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 Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks in the Summer?

Both Fairbanks and Pocono Mountains during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is a little warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 64°F (18°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Fairbanks. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during autumn. In October, Pocono Mountains is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Fairbanks. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. Pocono Mountains can be very cold during winter. Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Fairbanks in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the spring. In the spring, Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 32°F (0°C).

In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Pocono Mountains