A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Puerto Vallarta vs. Pocono Mountains for Resorts, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Puerto Vallarta and Pocono Mountains can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a cultural, coastal, and colorful town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Puerto Vallarta travel costs.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a scenic, beautiful, and magnificent region. Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and skiing. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Puerto Vallarta and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Puerto Vallarta. Although Puerto Vallarta and Pocono Mountains are both popular with visitors, Puerto Vallarta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Puerto Vallarta is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Puerto Vallarta is popular for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to the Malecon. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Puerto Vallarta different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is not a skiing destination.

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Puerto Vallarta. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

Pocono Mountains is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Puerto Vallarta is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Puerto Vallarta. The charming character combined with the authentic local cuisine makes for a wonderful culinary experience. There's everything from taco stands to romantic restaurants that you can try.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Puerto Vallarta is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

Puerto Vallarta has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find a mix of active clubs, cozy bars, and cosmopolitan cafes. Head to the Romantic Zone or Los Muertos Beach for some of the best places.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Puerto Vallarta is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

Puerto Vallarta is a world class resort vacation destination. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

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.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Vallarta is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Puerto Vallarta is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. Divers in the area may get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities like diving with manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, hammerheads, or schools of jacks.

Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Puerto Vallarta is notable for the beach. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Puerto Vallarta attract visitors from all over. There are many beaches spread out around town that have soft sand and blue water. Most have all of the amenities you could need. Popular beaches include Playa de los Muertos, Playa Mismaloya, and Playa Conchas Chinas.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

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.

Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains?

Puerto Vallarta is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

Puerto Vallarta is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

Pocono Mountains has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Puerto Vallarta 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.

Puerto Vallarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains.

Puerto Vallarta is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the water parks and thrilling activities, such as Aquaventuras Water Park or Los Veranos Canopy Tour. There's rock climbing and ropes courses at Las Animas Aventura Park. You'll also find horseback riding and even pirate boat tours in the area.

Pocono Mountains is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Both Puerto Vallarta and Pocono Mountains are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy sunset boat trips, horseback riding, and adventure sports. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing drink.

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.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Puerto Vallarta and Pocono Mountains are superb destinations for backpackers.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Pocono Mountains is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

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

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

Puerto Vallarta has a few public transit options. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around 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 Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

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

Puerto Vallarta is a very walkable town. There are several walkable neighborhoods in town such as 5 de Diciembre, el Centro, and Zona Romantica.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Puerto Vallarta Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Puerto Vallarta?

How long in Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains?

Both Puerto Vallarta and Pocono Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Puerto Vallarta. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Puerto Vallarta, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

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

Couples should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than Pocono Mountains. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Puerto Vallarta that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than Pocono Mountains 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 Puerto Vallarta.

One day in Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the cultural destination of Puerto Vallarta. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The scenic destination of Pocono Mountains offers skiing and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural town of Puerto Vallarta. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The region of Pocono Mountains offers food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains?

Puerto Vallarta is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This region offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains?

Puerto Vallarta is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The magnificent region of Pocono Mountains offers museums and skiing. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Puerto Vallarta Expensive? and Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Puerto Vallarta or Pocono Mountains?

Puerto Vallarta has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Puerto Vallarta and Pocono Mountains, 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.