A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pocono Mountains vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls?

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 Niagara Falls 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 beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a breathtaking, impressive, and iconic city. The beauty of Niagara Falls is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains than Niagara Falls, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pocono Mountains is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, and resorts, while Niagara Falls is more popular for its nightlife and impressive beauty. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for the large volume of water that flows over it. Pocono Mountains is well known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Also, Pocono Mountains is famous for Bushkill Falls.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is notable for snow skiing. However, Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is not a skiing destination.

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

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Niagara Falls is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Niagara Falls specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

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 Niagara Falls Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its resorts. However, Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Both Pocono Mountains and Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls?

Both Pocono Mountains and Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

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 Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Niagara Falls is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Niagara Falls is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

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 Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Both Pocono Mountains and Niagara Falls are excellent 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.

Niagara Falls makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Is Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is notable for backpackers. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Niagara Falls is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

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

Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls has a few public transit options. There is a bus system through town.

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 Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively 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 Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the magnificent destination of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the breathtaking destination of Niagara Falls. 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 Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife and food around the impressive city of Niagara Falls. 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 Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Pocono Mountains. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Niagara Falls 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 Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

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

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 Niagara Falls Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls?

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

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 Niagara Falls in the Summer?

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

Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Niagara Falls in the summer. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 75°F (24°C) in July, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Niagara Falls. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. Pocono Mountains usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Niagara Falls during summer. Pocono Mountains gets 288 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. In July, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Niagara Falls. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pocono Mountains in October average around 55°F (13°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Pocono Mountains often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Pocono Mountains gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 148 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in October than Niagara Falls. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

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

The weather in Niagara Falls can be very cold. Pocono Mountains can be very cold during winter. In January, Pocono Mountains is generally much warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 28°F (-2°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

Pocono Mountains usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during winter. Pocono Mountains gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 89 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

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

Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Niagara Falls in the spring. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 51°F (11°C) in April, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Niagara Falls. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In the spring, Pocono Mountains often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Niagara Falls. Pocono Mountains gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 203 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in April than Niagara Falls. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Pocono Mountains