This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Photo source: VRBO. And while the Catskills are great, they arenotpart of the great Keystone State so were going to focus on the Poconos from here out. With both destinations boasting stunning natural beauty, exciting outdoor activities, and charming small towns, it's no wonder travelers are torn. The Catskills Region has been an escape for those looking to leave the bustling city lifestyle for hundreds of years. 07-27-2017, 08:07 AM ckhthankgod : 80,683 posts . In fact, Moving to NYC after college? If you prefer a more intimate shopping experience, visit the charming town of Jim Thorpe, where you can peruse quaint shops like the Sellers Books & Fine Art or the Treasure Shop. Find directions to Pocono, browse local businesses, landmarks, get current traffic estimates, road conditions, and more. Although best . 9 Coal Mine & Museum. The Lodge at Woodloch, Hawley. Bring good boots, warm socks, a good jacket, gloves or mittens, and a hat. The Hamptons it's not, and neither is it manicured, meticulous Hudson Valley. Alright, shopaholics, its time to compare the retail therapy options in the Catskills and the Poconos. where the tiny cabins reside, stand out amid Hudson Valley hotels and escapist destinations as simple, minimalist retreats with a strong focus on nature.The Eastern Catskills boasts 65 cabins across an expansive 105 acres, while the Western Catskills location hosts 36 . You can see wild animals, hike, bike, kayak and raft. But whichever destination you choose, youre bound to have an unforgettable adventure. These nearby areas are packed with places to hike, swim, bike, fish and get a workout (no gym membership required). On the other hand, if youre looking for a wide array of attractions and activities, the Poconos might have the edge, offering plenty of fun for all ages. There are, , many of which are famous for their classic designs and beautiful scenery. A beginner's guide to the Catskills, How to hunt for a vacation home outside the city. The Catskills have a diverse food scene, with farm-to-table restaurants like the renowned Peekamoose Restaurant & Tap Room, offering seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Relief is just a few hours and a full tank of gas away at four hilly regions where you can indulge your inner mountaineer. With its rich heritage and artistic vibe, its sure to leave a lasting impression. The Devonian Catskill Formation or the Catskill Clastic wedge is a unit of mostly terrestrial sedimentary rock found in Pennsylvania and New York.Minor marine layers exist in this thick rock unit (up to 10,000 feet (3,000 m)). Deciding between the Catskills and the Poconos for your next vacation can be a real head-scratcher. I don't think you can get that "deep" into the wilderness in the catskills without running into a road, where as a Hike to Mt Marcy is 8+miles each direction. For shopaholics, the Poconos might be a better choice, with its diverse shopping options and bargain-hunting opportunities. Mar 6, 2021 - The transformation of these Poconos and Catskills resorts is like looking through some sort of dystopian View-Master. It features lush greenery, forested peaks, picturesque lakes, magnificent waterfalls, and so much more. In addition to the luxury resorts, there are plenty of, in the Poconos. Prices:Properties can run the gamut from $250,000 to $2 million, but most are priced between $500,000 and$800,000, says Goldstein. If you're thinking of buying or renting in any of these big three, here's what you need to know. This areain the northeast corner of Pennsylvania is also ideal for those looking for a nature-oriented getaway (but its a lot closer to the city, with some towns just an hour and a half from the George Washington Bridge). 3 min read. Unfortunately, this airport is about 107 miles away from the Poconos, and getting to the mountains from LaGuardia will require you to drive through the urban traffic around New York City. Now, lets talk about how the Catskills and the Poconos stack up when it comes to family-friendly fun. You can bask in the luxurious feel of the resort and feel posh while still enjoying smores or even, a competitive round of paintball with the kids, As much fun as the luxury resorts are, some of us prefer to be more frugal. Cottages & cabins and hotels promote restful mountain moments while waterparks and adventure courses, offer excitement around every turn. The most popular towns with New Yorkers are Egremont, Alford, Great Barrington, Sheffield, Monterey, New Marlboro, Stockbridge, West Stockbridge, Lenox, and Richmond, says Marlene Goldstein of Berkshire Country Homes. So while the Poconos and the Catskills are both part of the Allegheny Plateau and are relatively close together, they are not the same mountain chain or region. Both destinations are easily reachable from the New York City area, making them ideal choices for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation. Usually youre looking at anything between $1,000 a year and $8,000 a year. Cool cultural attractions are abundant, too. And dont forget about the ski resorts Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain offer thrilling slopes for winter sports enthusiasts. Alder Lake is also remote and beautiful, as is Big Pond. But first,Kathy Braddock of William Raveis says youneed to figure out exactlywhat you want in a vacation house:You have to ask yourself: How often are you going? Local's Epic Guide to 15 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Catskills While both destinations offer unique shopping experiences, the Catskills might be a better fit for those seeking one-of-a-kind items and antiques. Lake Wallenpaupack, one of Pennsylvania's biggest lakes, offers swimming, boating and fishing. Fresh air up thereToday, the Catskills are less associated with bygone Borscht Belt comics' stale jokes than with fresh air. The Poconos are located in Northeastern Pennsylvania and have a more aged, refined feel. ; ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT Over 30 scheduled activities each day, amenities across the campus, as well as nightly, family-friendly entertainment, sure to amaze . Lehigh Gorge State Park sits between White Haven and Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, so it is easy to reach via car from most towns within the Poconos. The Poconos have long been a famous and popular vacation destination. The Catskills might edge out the Poconos in terms of cultural diversity, boasting a vibrant arts scene with music festivals, theater productions, and film events. Check out some trails such as Overlook Mtn (and see the ruins of the Overlook Mtn House Hotel and amazing views of the Hudson Valley), Giant Ledge, Slide Mtn, and Otter Falls (a real hidden gem). 6. A wet day is one with at least 0.04 inches of liquid or liquid-equivalent precipitation. Start and end in Kingston; Distance - 192 miles; allow 2-3 days. In Catskills, house rental are the most frequent accommodation type. Price: Rooms start at $152 per night. Farm-to-table cuisine is also popular. The Poconos also offer their fair share of nighttime fun, with lively bars like the Thirsty Moose Saloon and live music venues like Penns Peak. Alternatively, you may use, Homewood Suites by Hilton Philadelphia-Valley Forge. We hope these reasons provide you with a better understanding on why Kittatinny is the best option for RV camping in the Poconos and Catskills. There are some remote areas in the Northern Poconos, such as Bruce Lake (which is only accessable by trail), burt the scenery is generally more spectacular in the Catskills. Either way, youre sure to create lasting memories with your family in these beautiful mountain regions. "The tricky thing in the Poconos is its not just state andcounty municipalities that dictate renting rules. If you would prefer to book another accommodation type, you may want to have a look at . . On the other hand, the Poconos present their own set of shopping opportunities, with options like The Crossings Premium Outlets, where you can snag deals on name-brand items. But people are surprised by just how low taxes are there, says McDonald. The Catskills may be known for their bungalows, but in each of these places you'll find all kinds of houses, to suit every taste. The Catskills are a more rugged mountain chain located in New York State. Pocono Map. The Poconos are renowned for their beauty. Now that weve covered all the ins and outs of these two amazing destinations, its time to answer the million-dollar question: Which is better, the Catskills or the Poconos? Ruins, abandonment, and deep silence have now replaced the smiling faces and joyous laughter of vacation-goers. Ready to explore the tapestry of time? All packages at The Lodge at Woodloch include lavish accommodations, 3 consecutive artfully-crafted gourmet meals per night of stay, stimulating speakers and workshops, experiences for the mind, body, and soul, inspiring creative arts, scheduled group fitness and . The Catskill is the largest bedrock unit of the Upper Devonian in northeast . Another excellent family-friendly resort isSkytop Lodge. A lot of thesehomes often have an extra loft space (perfect for an extra sleeping area for kids! This is not New York City. In the Catskills, youll find that the weather varies depending on the season. The dipping temperatures bring on the beautiful colors of Pennsylvanias fall foliage. Not only will you enjoy the breathtaking vistas and rolling landscapes, but youll also enjoy the quaint mountain culture, the engaging adventure courses and waterparks, and the endless outdoor activities. There are a whopping seven bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms in this house in Great Barrington. In fact, Mead says, rentals and sales in Lake George can be about twice the price as those further north, around lakes like Spoon Lake and Brant Lake. The Catskills leans more toward luxury, while the Poconos provides a greater variety of budget-friendly stays. Spa-inspired bathrooms with amenities by Ursa Major. Which town is right for you? A beginner's guide to the Catskills We will never promote an advertiser's product without making the relationship clear to our readers. However, the Poconos might have a slight edge when it comes to family-friendly activities and attractions. built competing resorts. At either Getaway, rest and reprieve are an overarching theme. PoconoRead More Please read ourprivacy policyandterms and conditionsfor more information. Even better adirondacks. Are the Poconos in New York or Pennsylvania? Beyond this peak, there are forests filled with boggy areas, alpine woods and rare plants. It's the heart of the Catskill Park and the NYC Watershed, so there's huge amounts of protected land. Winters, on the other hand, can be quite cold, with average temperatures dipping to 28F (-2C) and snowfall being a regular feature. Can I get a rent abatement and lower rent when I renew? When push comes to shove, most people draw a three-hour driving limit(and remember there can be traffic)." The restaurant name may appear to be a play on words: foodies may recognize the popular . However,the Catskills are located Northeast of the Poconos, in New York state. More importantly, the Poconos is home to some of the best resorts in America, excellent outdoor activities, and a thriving cultural scene. So, if youre planning a visit, make sure to pack accordingly. Mid-century design meets the great outdoors. Poconos vs. Catskills - Pocono Mountains Region Forum Ruth first gained fame as a pitcher. Geologically, the Poconos are considered to be part of the Allegheny Plateau, which is an offshoot of the Appalachian Mountains. Whether you love birdwatching, golfing, parasailing, or fishing, youll find plenty to love in the Poconos. Its perfect for people who appreciate the quiet and the beauty of nature, says Willie Bea McDonald of McDonald Real Estate in Bolton Landing (one of the more upscale parts of the Adirondacks). We're Cindy and Don, and we were both born and raised in Pennsylvania. As we started to spend more time traveling in our home state and discovering new things, we decided to share what we learned on this website. Good luck and happy trails. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. For a more luxurious stay, you might opt for the Cove Haven Resort or the Mount Airy Casino Resort, which offers upscale amenities and plenty of entertainment options. If youre craving something more casual, youll find a variety of cafes, delis, and diners serving up mouth-watering comfort food. The central Catskills (or High Peaks) along the Route 28 corridor are extremely pristine. Stay, explore, and discover the Pocono Mountains. I like ATVing, observing wildlife, sitting around the campfire, photography, and hiking. the Catskills are located Northeast of the Poconos, in New York state. The biggest difference, however, is likely in . However, the spring months are still quite cool, with mean temperatures of about 45 degrees in April and 55 in May. By contrast, the Berkshires, located in western Massachusetts, have a completely different vibe altogether. If youre a history and culture buff, the Catskills might just steal your heart. Alright, lets chat about where youll rest your head after a long day of exploring the Catskills or the Poconos. It's a strenuous climb but pays off with spectacular views that inspired writings by Herman Melville, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Henry David Thoreau. Would like to spend a couple of days in an area where together with my wife, we can trek and photograph scenery/landscapes. The Catskills are higher and more rugged than the Poconos: the highest peak in the Poconos is only 2,215 feet in elevation, but the Catskills have more than 30 peaks that rise above 3,500 feet. Clubhouse with lounge and work spaces. And use a local realtor. This indoor waterpark has fun and challenging attractions for the entire family, including indoor surfing, body boarding, and waterslides. We've been there many times for biking and cross-country skiing. These are not easy resales, and sometimes they can sit on the market for a long time, so you need to make sure that youre happy with it." Historic heightsFor history lovers, the Columns Museum in Milford has exhibits on American Indian heritage, the French and Indian War, the Revolution and the Civil War.THE BERKSHIRESThe Berkshires, 2 hours from New York in western Massachusetts, are famous for being a postcard-perfect site and a crossroads of culture and nature. All-Inclusive Rates. Lake GeorgeIn the southern Adirondacks near sparkling Lake George, an hour north of Albany, Black Mountain is a rewarding 8.5-mile hike. If youre drawn to a bohemian, artsy vibe, the Catskills might be more your speed, while the Poconos offers a nostalgic, romantic atmosphere thats perfect for couples and history buffs. THE POCONOS"Poconos" is a Native American word that means "stream between two mountains" (not "heart-shaped tubs"). There aredozens of golf courses in the Poconos, many of which are famous for their classic designs and beautiful scenery. How to get to The Catskills, United States? | Mozio After the snow melts, the Poconos really open up. In the Catskills, youll find plenty of charming inns and B&Bs that are perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing retreat. Houses in the area tend to be of the rustic/log cabin variety. And while the Catskills are great, they are. In fact, the first heart-shaped tub in the world and the first champagne-glass-shaped tub were both built in theCove Haven Resortin 1968. What is there to do in the Catskill Mountains? The Poconos are a mountain chain located in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Lets talk dollars and cents, shall we? In addition to the luxury resorts, there are plenty ofexcellent hotelsandfun Airbnbsin the Poconos. I've traveled in the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The most popular hike is up Indian Head Mountain, a 5-mile (round-trip) route that rewards you with a close encounter with a stand of ancient hemlocks and a grand view of the Hudson River Valley. Rentals can range from aruond $600 a week to $4,000 depending on size and location. All in all, the Poconos are a great place to visit year-round: it just depends on what youre looking for. This will also give you the freedom to visit the many quaint towns and scenic spots scattered throughout the area. Glen Brook Farm. Yet, if youre in search of unique local goods, the Catskills has plenty of charming boutiques and artisan shops to explore. FWIW, Woodstock arguably isn't in the Catskills, either, being at the foot of the mountain that marks the southeastern corner of the Catskills. Places like Tanglewood (the sumemr home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra), Mass MoCA and Jacobs Pillow cement the area'scred with culture vultures. And if youre a camper, plenty ofRV and tent sitesare available. Our plan is to purchase a second home in either the Poconos or the Catskills and I was wondering if anyone has some useful information to share. They discouraged fancy dress and did not allow guests to consume liquor or dance, but as time went on and competitive pressures increased, the resorts became more accommodating of modern pleasures. 8-mile hikeAdventurers can make the 8-mile hike to the top of Mount Greylock (3,491 feet), the highest point in Massachusetts. Wonderful as the golf scene is, many visitors to the Poconos come for thefabulous hiking. Finally you add that the Adirondacks are heavily protected and you have a winning combination in my book. Dressing in layers is a great way to help keep the cold weather at bay. Some of the other popular towns include Towamensing Trails, Lake Harmony, Bear Creek Lake and Tannersville (thats the town with the shopping outlets), says Matt Dunbar of Mary Enck Realty, who grew up in the Western part of the Poconos (about a two-hour drive from the city). So, buckle up and lets embark on this comparative journey together! White mountains and mount Washington provide the BEST opportunities in new Hampshire. In a nutshell, both the Catskills and the Poconos have similar weather patterns, with mild summers and chilly, snowy winters. A 'maddening' Brooklyn market: Slower sales dont put a dent in prices, There's a semi-secret list of NYC co-op and condo buildings that are off limits to certain mortgage lenders, A newcomer from Georgia, life on City Island, & more, Leaving the Bay Area for Brooklyn, buying on City Island, & more, NYC foreclosures hit highest level in nearly three years but remain below pre-pandemic numbers, Have your eye on a NYC fixer-upper? The best time of year to visit the Poconos depends on your personal preferences. Tillinghast, Jack Nicklaus, andDonald Ross. Daytime highs in the summer can approach the 80s. Adirondack Park alone has 2.6 million acres of public park. Lakefront homes further north will range from $500,000 to $1.2 million. After a fire destroyed the main building at this resort in the Poconos, a replacement went up in the early 70's. It is a truly striking sight, a modernist spaceship tucked . There are many excellent hiking trails, driving tours, golf courses, and other activities that will let you get outside and enjoy the balmy spring weather. The Catskill Mountain range does, however, connect to the Pocono Mountains in Northern Pennsylvania. Are Catskills part of Adirondacks? - Wise-Answer Both Outposts, a.k.a. The Lehigh Valley Airport is about 54 miles from the Poconos and is also served bymany major air carriers, as well as several car rental companies. Geologically, the Poconos are considered to be part of the Allegheny Plateau, which is an offshoot of the Appalachian Mountains. For some indoor excitement, Kalahari Resort and Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark provide a day full of water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones. And if youre a camper, plenty of, One of the biggest attractions to the Poconos is golf. The beautiful summer weather attracts a lot of visitors; June through August is the peak of the tourist season in the Poconos. If youre more into water-based activities, the region boasts several rivers for tubing, kayaking, and fishing. How to break the lease for your NYC apartment, What does 'net effective rent' mean? If you prefer to fly to major airports and dont like riding on regional jets, you can also fly into LaGuardia Airport in New York City. Welcome to Keystone Answers. There are hundreds of miles of trails in the Catskills Preserve for backpackers. During the fair-weather months, you can hike, canoe, or raft; during the cold months, you can ski and enjoy the Winter Wonderland of Pennsylvania. You can take a bus from Catskill Mountains to Pocono Mountains via Hunter Mountain, The Cliffs at LIC, Court Sq-23 St, 42 St-Port Authority Bus Terminal, New York, and Stroudsburg/ Delaware Water Gap, PA in around 4h 57m. Take a break and treat yourself at one of these world-class Poconos resorts, each with its own flair for relaxation and genuine hospitality. So go ahead, start planning your trip, and get ready for an unforgettable experience! In conclusion, getting to and around both the Catskills and the Poconos is relatively simple, especially if youre traveling by car. Poconos or Catskill mountains in August? - Pennsylvania Forum In terms of accommodation, both destinations offer a range of options. When it comes to buying homes, cottages or newer homes with lake rights can go anywhere from around $300,000 to $1 million in Lake George. You can also explore the regions many breweries and distilleries, such as Catskill Brewery and Union Grove Distillery, for a taste of locally crafted beverages. Much more commercial. Adirondack MuseumNature buffs will enjoy the Adirondack Museum, on Blue Mountain Lake, devoted to the history, industry and life in the Adirondacks. Make sure you have appropriate gear and follow safety guidelines for any activities you participate in. Getting there: The Poconos are about an hour and a half to two-and-a-half hours from the city. Which is the right vacation spot for you: Poconos, Berkshires or Once a thriving center for arts and entertainment, the area played host to the iconic Woodstock festival and inspired Washington Irvings famous tale, Rip Van Winkle. Today, the Catskills bohemian spirit lives on, with countless art galleries, museums, and cultural events dotting the landscape. The Catskills are known for their lush forests, rolling mountains, and scenic hiking trails. But dont worry, weve got you covered! New Yorkers moving out of state save more money on housing than taxes, 5 houses for sale in Margaretville, NY, a small town in the Catskills, 5 houses for sale in Sagaponack, the most expensive zip code in NY. The 2,400 square miles of rolling mountains in the northeast corner of Pennsylvania are a picturesque and pleasant 1-hour drive from the George Washington Bridge. Head to the Beaverkill, Delaware, Esopus, Willowemoc and Neversink for fantastic fishing, kayaking, canoeing and tubing. THE ADIRONDACKSThe word "vacation" is said to have been invented in the Adirondacks of upstate New York, and there's no more better place to unleash your wild side than the Adirondack Park. Published September 6, 2017. The Catskills offer golf courses with stunning views, such as the Hanah Mountain Resort and Country Club. What else is there in the Poconos? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-39478935', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Poconos and now live in the Catskills. Many properties in both regions offer swimming pools, game rooms, and on-site playgrounds, ensuring that theres always something fun to do for the whole family. When it comes to eating, drinking, and nightlife, both destinations have a lot to offer. . . When it comes to accommodations, both the Catskills and the Poconos boast a range of family-friendly lodgings, including cabin rentals, vacation homes, and resorts with kid-centric amenities. Visitors can wind down by floating on the lazy river or lounging in the hot tub. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. 1. During the winter months, the average temperature in the Poconos is in. There are physiographic regions and there are tourism regions, and both can be somewhat subjective. Pocono Manor is home to the Kalahari Waterpark, a 10,000-square-foot African-themed waterpark. Getting there: The Southern Adirondacks are about three-and-a-half hours from the city. During the winter, smaller ski resorts are popular. The Poconos have long been a famous and popular vacation destination. Aug 2, 2007. Some people will also tell you that Jim Thorpe isn't in the Poconos. ElevationThe highest point in the area is Mount Ararat, in Wayne County, at 2,654 feet. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Joined. Disinfectant is used to clean the property; commonly-touched surfaces are . The Catskills offers visitors a chance to try their hand at Nordic skiing over a mellow 26-mile trail that stretches from Bloomville to Grand George, while cross-country skiers can test their skills on Claryville's combined 22 miles of groomed and track-lined trails. difference between catskills and poconos Very little development (aside from the tiny villages that dot the valley). Some of these spots come in just over that, and others a little over. The Pocono Mountains, commonly referred to as the Poconos / poknoz /, are a geographical, geological, and cultural region in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The 2 Bedroom Suite provides tons of space, privacy and is perfect for families, friends or groups traveling together. The Catskills are home to the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the site of the original Woodstock festival, and the Hudson River School Art Trail, which showcases stunning landscapes that inspired famous American painters. Poconos PA Spa Resorts | The Lodge at Woodloch Some popular options include the Spruceton Inn, the Roxbury, and the Woodstock Inn on the Millstream. Catskills vs. Poconos for Vacation - Which one is better? Winters can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to an average of 25F (-4C) and snowfall being a common occurrence. *By signing up you agree to receive occasional emails on behalf of our sponsors, Copyright 2009-2023 by BrickUnderground | PrivacyPolicy | TermsofService | AdChoices | Login, National Association of Real Estate Editors. During the winter months, the average temperature in the Poconos is inthe high 20s,so youll need to bring proper winter weather gear. If youre traveling with the family, you can even take family-friendly rafting trips on less aggressive rapids. The Bicentennial Tower stands tall and proud in Erie, Pennsylvania, attracting visitors from far and wide. Just remember to take the usual travel precautions and stay informed. Lake George Village is a bit tacky, but convenient with its strip mall. There are a number of whitewater rafting outfitters for canoeing, kayaking and float trips on the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers. This darling town has been known for years because of the peace, love, art, and community that it represents. AutoCamp Luxury Airstreams | Outdoor Glamping Experience I don't think you'll get that in the Poconos. A contemporary four-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath home with lake views in Lake Harmony (about two hours from the city). By contrast, the Catskills remain at a temperature between the 70s and 80s; however, at night, they dip low into the 50s and 60s, which makes for the ideal summertime climate. This room style includes a master bedroom with one king bed and private bathroom, a second bedroom with two queen beds, and a living area with one queen sleeper sofa and second bathroom. Getaway Eastern and Western Catskills. In the following sections, you will discover the answers to these questions and more. And, as always, respect the environment and local wildlife. Pocono, PA Map & Directions - MapQuest The Poconos, then, were quite unlike the Catskills, which were defined in the twentieth century by a heavy Jewish presence from New York City. D) bedrock structure and elevation.