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

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan?

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

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a scenic, quaint, and local town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan are popular destinations, Pocono Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pocono Mountains is very popular for its skiing and resorts, while Ketchikan attracts visitors for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also well known for Bushkill Falls. Ketchikan is famous for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan Better for Skiing?

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

Ketchikan is not a skiing destination.

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

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan.

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 Ketchikan. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

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

Ketchikan is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Ketchikan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

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 Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are reasonable in both Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan.

Most people don't head to Pocono Mountains specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is very good for its resorts. However, Ketchikan 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.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Ketchikan visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan?

Both Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan are nice 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.

Ketchikan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Ketchikan is notable 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.

The beauty of Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

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 Ketchikan Better for Families?

Both Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan are superb to visit with kids.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Ketchikan. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Both Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Ketchikan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

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

Pocono Mountains is notable for backpackers. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan offer reasonable 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 Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Ketchikan is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Ketchikan is a very walkable town. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

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 Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Ketchikan. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

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

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 food around the scenic destination of Ketchikan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan?

You'll find museums and skiing around the magnificent 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 food and shopping around the scenic town of Ketchikan. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Ketchikan?

You'll find skiing and food around the relaxing 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.

Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?

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.

Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan, we can see that Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan, 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 Ketchikan?

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 Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Pocono Mountains is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 75°F (24°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. In July, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and Pocono Mountains during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Ketchikan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pocono Mountains usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Ketchikan. The winter months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ketchikan in the winter. The weather in Pocono Mountains can be very cold. In the winter, Pocono Mountains is much colder than Ketchikan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pocono Mountains in January average around 28°F (-2°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Ketchikan. The natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Pocono Mountains is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 51°F (11°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Pocono Mountains usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Pocono Mountains