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

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Ottawa?

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 Ottawa 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.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a friendly, welcoming, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Ottawa travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Ottawa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Ottawa are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Ottawa is known for its museums and attractions. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Ottawa and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Ottawa is popular for its history, politics, and green space.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Ottawa Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Ottawa is not a skiing destination.

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.

Ottawa is not a skiing destination.

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

Ottawa is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Ottawa. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pocono Mountains. 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.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Ottawa offer a number of good 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.

Ottawa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are decent in both Pocono Mountains and Ottawa.

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 Ottawa. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ottawa Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ottawa Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

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.

Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Ottawa?

Both Pocono Mountains and Ottawa 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.

Ottawa has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ottawa More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Ottawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Ottawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ottawa Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ottawa 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 Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ottawa Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

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

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Ottawa is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.

Is Pocono Mountains or Ottawa Better for Students?

Ottawa is a city with good options for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Ottawa is a good city to visit for students. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

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

Ottawa 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.

Ottawa has a few public transit options. There is both a public bus and light rail system.

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 Ottawa a more walkable city?

Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very 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 Ottawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ottawa or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Ottawa?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find museums and food around the cultural destination of Ottawa. 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 Ottawa?

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural city of Ottawa. 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 Ottawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Ottawa 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 Ottawa?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Pocono Mountains. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Ottawa 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.

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

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 Ottawa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Ottawa?

Ottawa has a larger population, and is about 270 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Ottawa, 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 Ottawa?

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 Ottawa in the Summer?

Both Ottawa 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 Ottawa in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is a little warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Ottawa averages at about 21°C (71°F).

In Ottawa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. In the summer, Pocono Mountains often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ottawa. Pocono Mountains gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 268 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in July than Ottawa. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Ottawa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Ottawa. 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 Ottawa for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally a little warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Pocono Mountains usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during autumn. Pocono Mountains gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 116 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Ottawa. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Ottawa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Ottawa. 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 Ottawa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ottawa can be very cold. Pocono Mountains can be very cold during winter. Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Ottawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Ottawa fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In the winter, Pocono Mountains often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Pocono Mountains gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 93 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in January than Ottawa. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Ottawa in the Spring?

Both Ottawa 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.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Ottawa averages at about 6°C (44°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. Pocono Mountains usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during spring. Pocono Mountains gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ottawa and Pocono Mountains