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

Should you visit Roanoke or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Roanoke or Pocono Mountains? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a laid back, scenic, and outdoorsy town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, hiking, and shopping. See Roanoke travel costs.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a relaxing, scenic, and beautiful 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.

Roanoke and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Roanoke or Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Roanoke and Pocono Mountains are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, food, resorts, and impressive beauty, while Roanoke is known for its nightlife. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Roanoke and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Roanoke is popular for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Roanoke different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Roanoke or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Pocono Mountains and Roanoke.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roanoke. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

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 Roanoke or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Roanoke or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Roanoke is a town 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 Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

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 Roanoke or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

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

Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Is Roanoke or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Roanoke and Pocono Mountains both have excellent trails.

Many visitors go to Roanoke for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Roanoke or Pocono Mountains?

If you're looking to go shopping, Roanoke and Pocono Mountains both offer plenty of good spots.

Roanoke has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for shopping. 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 Roanoke or Pocono Mountains More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Roanoke or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Roanoke or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Roanoke and Pocono Mountains make for a excellent place to visit.

Roanoke is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

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.

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

Pocono Mountains is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

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

Roanoke and Pocono Mountains both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

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.

Is Roanoke or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Roanoke and Pocono Mountains are decent when it comes to walkability.

Roanoke is generally not a very walkable town. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

Pocono Mountains is generally not very walkable. 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 Roanoke Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Roanoke?

How long in Roanoke or Pocono Mountains?

Both Roanoke 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 Roanoke. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Roanoke, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Roanoke. 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.

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Roanoke or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the outdoorsy town of Roanoke. 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.

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Roanoke or Pocono Mountains?

Roanoke 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.

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Roanoke or Pocono Mountains?

Roanoke 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. In Pocono Mountains, you'll find museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Roanoke and Pocono Mountains, we can see that Pocono Mountains is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Roanoke or Pocono Mountains?

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

When is the best time to visit Roanoke or Pocono Mountains?

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 Roanoke or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Roanoke during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Roanoke in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Roanoke is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Roanoke average around 79°F (26°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Roanoke. In the summer, Roanoke often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains. Roanoke gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. Roanoke usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Pocono Mountains. Roanoke gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Roanoke or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Roanoke and Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Roanoke for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Roanoke is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Roanoke averages around 60°F (16°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In Roanoke, it's very sunny this time of the year. Roanoke usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Roanoke gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Roanoke usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Roanoke gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Roanoke or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Roanoke as well as Pocono Mountains. The winter months attract visitors to Roanoke because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

It's quite cold in Pocono Mountains in the winter. The weather in Roanoke can be very cold. In the winter, Roanoke is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Roanoke in January average around 38°F (3°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Roanoke often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Roanoke gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

Roanoke usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Pocono Mountains. Roanoke gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Roanoke or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Roanoke are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In April, Roanoke is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Roanoke average around 59°F (15°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. Roanoke usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during spring. Roanoke gets 246 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Roanoke usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Roanoke gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Roanoke