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Golden Gate Bridge. Fisherman’s Wharf. Chinatown. While there are plenty of well-known things to do in San Francisco, these are just the tip of the iceberg. As you plan your San Francisco vacation, make an itinerary of the tried and true as well as the hidden gems that only locals know about.

Here, you’ll learn about some of the best things to do in San Francisco, plus tips on making your trip as fun as possible and stretching your budget to the max.

Best Times to Go to San Francisco

Weatherwise, San Francisco is pretty consistent throughout the year. Temperatures range from the 50s to 70s during the day, making a vacation here any time a great idea.

However, you may be more likely to find travel deals if you travel off-season, so outside of the May to August summer season.

While summer travel may be the most popular, there are events in the city throughout the year:

•   February: Chinese New Year

•   April: San Francisco International Film Festival (SFFILM)

•   May: How Weird Street Faire

•   June: San Francisco Pride

•   October: Italian Heritage Parade

•   November to January: Illuminate SF Festival of Light

Bad Times to Go to San Francisco

If you want warm weather for your San Francisco trip, know that you may not get it in summer. Many people assume that because San Francisco is in California, it’s hot come June, July, and August, but sometimes that isn’t true. The weather can change quickly once the sun dips behind the buildings, and the city is known for its fog. Pack a jacket.

While fog and chilly weather aren’t going to ruin most people’s vacations, the unexpected can happen, so you may want to look into travel insurance before you head to the city by the bay. Your credit card travel insurance may cover you, or you could purchase your own policy.

Average Cost of a San Francisco Vacation

As you work on your financial prep for travel, you’ll need to know how much to budget for your San Francisco vacation.

If you’re traveling alone, the average cost for a week in the city is $2,348. For couples, it’s $4,217.

The type of accommodations you choose will impact your budget. Hotels in San Francisco can be found for $82 to $357 a night, although there may be ways you can save on hotels, such as joining a rewards program or applying discount codes. If you prefer a vacation rental (where you can cook to save money), expect to pay $280 to $610 per night.

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10 Fun and Affordable Must-Dos in San Francisco

San Francisco is made up of distinct neighborhoods such as Japantown, Chinatown, Mission District, Financial District, Haight-Ashbury, and more. You may want to explore a different neighborhood every day on your trip.

Here are 10 fun things to do in San Francisco according to frequent visitors, locals, and top-rated online reviews.

1. Spend Time in Japantown

While its cousin, Chinatown, tends to get all the attention, Japantown in San Francisco is also worth a visit. This is one of only three remaining Japantowns in the country, and here you can find delicious food, cultural events, and plenty of shopping. Whether you’re looking for an authentic kimono, teapot, manga, or Japanese groceries, you’ll find them here. sfjapantown.org/

2. Check out Chinatown

San Francisco’s Chinatown is bustling and crowded. Be sure to snap a photo under the iconic pagoda doorway that marks the start of Chinatown before ambling through the quarter.

After you get your fill of shopping, stop at the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, a hole in the wall you might miss if you don’t know to look for it. Here you’ll see the employees deftly throwing round batter on a hot skillet and shaping them into those delicious cookies we all know and love. sanfranciscochinatown.com/

3. Don’t Forget Fisherman’s Wharf

Yes, it’s touristy, but yes, you still need to visit this famous area. It’s been around for more than 100 years and now offers many things to see including museums, shops, and restaurants.

A favorite place to spend some time in Fisherman’s Wharf is Musée Mécanique, which offers an impressive collection of old-time arcade games, music boxes, and slot machines. Bring your quarters, and get lost in nostalgia.

After that, you’ll work up an appetite, so head over to one of the many restaurants. Seafood is a must! Restaurants like Cioppino’s, Crab House, and Pier Market Seafood Restaurant offer clam chowder, shrimp, and other delicacies from the sea. If you wind up splashing out on a seafood feast, you might want to pay with plastic to earn and then redeem credit card rewards. fishermanswharf.org/

4. Explore an Amazing Aquarium

After visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, head to the Aquarium by the Bay a short walk away at Pier 39. There are more than 20,000 aquatic critters, including jellyfish, sharks, bat rays, otters, and more.

Explore the aquarium on your own by getting up close and personal with different exhibits including Under the Bay, Sharks of Alcatraz Tunnel, Go With the Flow, and more. General admission tickets are typically $31.75 for adults and $21.75 for kids ages four to 12. aquariumofthebay.org/

5. Get Outdoors at Golden Gate Park

Another of the fun things to do in San Francisco is to spend a few hours in Golden Gate Park. There are over 1,000 acres of meadows, lakes, gardens, playgrounds, and museums. While some of the museums and gardens charge admission, there is plenty available at no cost, making it a fun free thing to do in the city and a way families can afford to travel.

Don’t miss the Bison Paddock, which has attracted visitors since 1892, or the Japanese Tea Garden, which boasts azaleas, cherry trees, and Japanese maples. Incidentally, if you are traveling with a pet, know that most areas (though not buildings) in the park are dog-friendly. sfrecpark.org/770/Golden-Gate-Park

6. Marvel at Mind-Blowing Science

Visiting San Francisco with science lovers? Don’t miss this institution located right at Golden Gate Park in an architecturally amazing building. It includes an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest (yes, a rainforest), and natural history museum under one umbrella. Admission is typically $43.75 for adults; $34.25 for youth.

If you’re looking for something unique to do in the evening in San Francisco, visit one of the California Academy of Sciences’ properties for NightLife ($22.75), which offers the chance to get your science on while enjoying adult beverages and food. calacademy.org/

7. Head Over to Haight-Ashbury

For the hippies at heart, no San Francisco trip is complete without a visit to the iconic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. This is where flower power sprang up, and where you can now find quirky boutiques, restaurants and brightly painted Victorian buildings.

8. Peruse the Painted Ladies

A beautiful juxtaposition between modern and historic San Francisco, the Painted Ladies are a row of Victorian houses painted in cheerful colors near Alamo Square Park. Consider having a sunset picnic in the park to get a great opportunity to see and shoot the ladies in the golden light. It’s a wonderful bit of architecture that San Francisco is known for.

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9. Fuel Up at the Ferry Building Marketplace

Foodies, this is one of the top things to do in San Francisco. On the Embarcadero at Market Street, you’ll find the Ferry Building Marketplace. Inside, you’ll find a wealth of artisanal food shops and eateries, as well as a farmer’s market and events.

Get your coffee fix with local legend Blue Bottle Coffee, then splurge on a delicious vegan donut at Donut Farm, known for flavors like Orange Creamsicle and Lavender Earl Grey. Or go for lunch at Grande Creperie or Delica. You’ve got options! ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/

10. Hop on a San Francisco Cable Car

One of the best things to do in San Francisco is to take the quintessential cable car. This historic form of transportation has been getting people around the city for nearly 150 years.

Be sure to stay on until the car turns around at the Powell/Mason Cable Car Turnaround. Here, the car will be manually turned on a large wooden circle so it can make the return journey. Tickets are $8 for passengers age 5 and up. sfmta.com/getting-around/muni/cable-cars

The Takeaway

San Francisco is the ideal vacation spot because it appeals to foodies, history buffs, science lovers, and anyone who enjoys a good walk in a park. The bonus? You’ll get your steps in if you choose to walk up and down its picturesque hills!

SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members. Through a partnership with Expedia, we make it easy to find the lowest rates and book your reservations — for flights, hotel rooms, car rentals, and more — all in one place. Earn 2x rewards when booking with your SoFi Mastercard or debit card. And when you redeem your SoFi rewards for travel, you get a 25% bonus: $100 of reward points are worth $125.

FAQ

What are free things to do in San Francisco?

Enjoy a stroll around Golden Gate Park or picnic with the Painted Ladies at sunset to enjoy the city without spending a cent.

Where should I eat in San Francisco?

San Francisco is a food lover’s paradise. Both Chinatown and Japantown offer great options, and the merchants at Ferry Building Marketplace specialize in artisanal delicacies.

How many days should I spend in San Francisco?

With so much to do, you could easily spend five days in San Francisco. At a minimum, budget three days to see a decent amount of attractions.

Photo credit: iStock/Eloi_Omella

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.


Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

SOCC0223046

Known as “The Big Pineapple,” Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii and a great place for your next vacation. While Honolulu is very much a major city on the island of Oahu, within minutes, you can be exploring the gorgeous, lush countryside that surrounds it.

That means there’s ample opportunities to do everything from visiting historical sites and sampling amazing food to snorkeling, kayaking, or climbing waterfalls. To help you develop your itinerary for visiting this tropical paradise, consider the following list of things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii. You’ll also learn travel tips and tricks to make your vacay that much better.

Best Times to Go to Honolulu

With temperatures that rarely rise above the high 80s, Honolulu is temperate throughout the year. The best (and least crowded) times to visit are April, May, September, or October.

Here are some of the annual events in Honolulu you might want to plan your trip around:

•   March: The Honolulu Festival

•   May: The Lei Day Celebration

•   June: The King Kamehameha Floral Parade

•   September: The Aloha Festival

•   October: Hawaiʻi Food and Wine Festival

•   December: Honolulu Marathon

Bad Times to Go to Honolulu

While temperatures are appealing year-round, some can find the summer sun and warmth a bit oppressive; others find winter a tad too humid.

Also, summer travel can often mean more tourists and therefore more crowded attractions. The rainy season is from November to March, and since many of the best things to do in Honolulu are outdoor activities, this might not be the ideal time to take your Honolulu trip.

Weather is one of the many variables that can impact a trip. If the unexpected happens and you can’t take your trip or things were to go awry once you were in Hawaii, having travel insurance can help you get reimbursed for travel purchases. You might be able to access credit card travel insurance, or you could buy it before your trip.

Average Cost of a Honolulu Vacation

If you’re taking a romantic trip for two to Honolulu, you can expect the cost of a weeklong trip to run about $4,142. It can, of course, cost more or less, depending on your budget.

Renting a vacation home, which can cost from $220 to $1,000 a night, means you can save on food since you can cook in the home. It may, however, cost more per night than a hotel, which averages $100 to $459 a night in Honolulu, though you can often save on hotel costs by being a member of a chain’s rewards program, finding coupon codes, or using other travel hacks.

Other costs to consider include renting a car, airfare, and dining. Of course, attractions are another expense, whether that’s museum admission or chartering a boat.

The prices above don’t include airfare getting to and from the island. Obviously, the cost will vary depending upon where you are flying from and back to, as well as how you like to travel (nonstop or not, which class of service, whether you check bags, and so forth). Signing up for an airline credit card before you book your flights can help you earn points for purchases.

10 Fun Must-Dos in Honolulu

If you’re ready to plan your trip and pack in the best things to do in Honolulu, here is a list culled from travelers’ experiences, locals’ recommendations, and top-reviewed attractions.

One quick tip: If you’re planning on doing some of the pricier activities (say, a scuba or snorkeling expedition), you may want to pay with plastic to earn some credit card rewards.

1. Hike Mānoa Falls

Visiting a waterfall is a highlight of many Hawaiian vacations. One to consider: Mānoa Falls, a short-but-sweet 1.6-mile round-trip hike. It’s especially nice on a hot day, as the entire trail is shaded by bamboo, ferns, and ancient banyan trees. The trail’s incline is steady and can sometimes be muddy, so bring water and wear appropriate shoes.

At the end of the trail is a gorgeous waterfall to enjoy; take time to snap a few photos and catch your breath. Incidentally, there is a sign at the bottom of the falls discouraging visitors from swimming due to possible bacteria in the water; follow guidance and/or do your own research. Also worth noting: There is a $5 parking fee. hawaiitrails.hawaii.gov/trails/#/trail/manoa-falls-trail/225

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2. Soak in the Sunset at Waikīkī Beach

One of the top things to do in Honolulu is visit historic Waikīkī Beach. This is where the first hotel was built in 1901, and since then, it has become a hotspot for vacationers. Even if you aren’t staying nearby, it’s worth an evening visit to watch the pinks, purples, and blues of the sunset melt into the water. If you have kids in tow, hanging out at a beach is a free thing to do in Honolulu, which can be one of the ways families can afford to travel.

Consider having a cocktail at one of the many beachside bars to enjoy the experience.

3. Get Up Close to a Coral Reef

Another must on the list of fun things to do in Honolulu is Hanauma Bay State Park, which has been a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park since 1967. To protect the coral reef and its inhabitants, reservations are now required. There is a $3 parking fee and a $25 park entrance fee.

Once you’re in, you’ll be treated to a short video explaining the history of the park, as well as introducing you to the creatures that call it home. Take the tram down to the shore and spend the day snorkeling over coral reefs. Take an underwater camera so you can capture parrotfish, octopuses, sea urchins, puffer fish, and more. hanaumabaystatepark.com/

4. Swim with the Sharks

Not everyone will consider this one of the fun things to do in Honolulu, but some will enjoy this adventure. Several companies offer snorkel tours that give you instruction in this pursuit, and then, when suited up, you can hold onto a rope along the side of the boat and watch as sandbar sharks, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, tiger sharks, and more drift by at a safe distance. You may also get the chance to free dive into the water for an extra thrill.

An outing like this, lasting a couple of hours, can cost about $150 per person. You might want to use a travel credit card and get points when paying for pricier activities like these.

5. Tour a Japanese Temple

Oahu has a strong tie to Japanese culture, and nowhere is that more evident than at the Byodo-In Temple. It was built in 1968 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants in Hawaii. After paying $5 for adult admission (card only; no cash), tour the gorgeous gardens and temple, ring the giant sacred bell (Bon-sho), make an offering to the Amida Buddha, and feed the goldfish. You can also buy a souvenir in the gift shop. byodo-in.com/

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5. Revisit Pearl Harbor

For many, Honolulu is synonymous with Pearl Harbor, which was bombed in 1941 and is an important date in U.S. history. One of the best things you can do in Honolulu is take a tour and immerse yourself in what happened at Pearl Harbor during World War II. View the wreckage of this historic battle site; visit the Battleship Missouri, where the Japanese surrendered and ended the war; and learn from the WWII museum exhibits.

Ticket prices vary. Admission to the Submarine Museum is $12.99 for kids; $21.99 for adults. Admission to four exhibits and the Visitor Center is $44.99 for kids and $89.99 for adults. https://www.pearlharborhistoricsites.org/

6. Treat Yourself to Something Sweet

After a day of exploring Honolulu, you’ll be ready for a sweet break, and you’ll find that at the famous Liliha Bakery. There are five locations in Honolulu, often offering up to 150 different types of baked goods. Liliha is especially well-known for its craveable cream puffs in flavors like green tea and chocolate. If you go for lunch, save room for dessert! lilihabakery.com/

7. Explore the North Shore

If you’re a surfer (or surf-watcher), North Shore is the place to be. If you’re a beginner, you can take a surf lesson. If you’re a spectator, there are surf competitions like Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in the winter.

Not into surfing? No worries. The North Shore is still worth a visit: Haleʻiwa Town is a great place to shop at cute boutiques or grab a shave ice at Matsumoto’s.

8. Savor a Steak

Buzz’s Original Steakhouse has been an Oahu classic since it started serving up its prime cuts in 1962. Located across the street from Kailua Beach Park, Buzz’s is open for lunch, pupu (appetizers) and drinks, and dinner (Note: The website requests no tank tops after 4:30 pm; just sayin’). Fare includes beef spring rolls, poke, rack of lamb, and calamari steak, which cooks up a big portion of the calamari vs. just the tentacles. Buzz’s mai tais are said to be among the best on the island. buzzsoriginalsteakhouse.com/

9. Kayak to Mokoli’i

Mokoliʻi Island, also known as Chinaman’s Hat, is a cone-shaped island that’s a popular destination for visitors. You can kayak to the island, which is a short distance from Kualoa Point. Once you’re there, you can hike to the peak and wave to your friends on the opposite beach.

10. Dine at a Tea House

Here’s another piece of World War II history: the Natsunoya Tea House, which has been a tea house (under a different name) since 1921, was taken over by the U.S. government during the war and converted into a fire and first-aid station. After the war, it reverted to a teahouse. Today, it’s a sushi restaurant, Natsunoya, that also offers banquets and catering. natsunoyahawaii.com/

The Takeaway

For those dreaming of a vacation in Hawaii, Honolulu can bring together the best of big-city amenities and the relaxation of the country. The battle you’ll face is managing downtime with so many fun things to do in Honolulu, from beaches to hikes to historical sites and more.

Whether you want to travel more or get a better ROI for your travel dollar, SoFi can help. SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members that lets you budget, plan, and book your next trip in a convenient one-stop shop. SoFi takes the guessing game out of how much you can afford for that honeymoon, family vacation, or quick getaway — and we help you save too.

FAQ

What sweets is Honolulu known for?

People with a sweet tooth will be spoiled for choice in Honolulu. Popular snacks include cream puffs from Liliha Bakery, malasadas (fried dough), shaved ice, and poi donuts (poi is derived from taro root and has a purple hue).

Where can I see a waterfall in Honolulu?

Mānoa Falls is a beautiful and easily-accessible waterfall near Honolulu. Waimea Falls is another option, though it can sometimes be crowded.

How long do I need to see Honolulu?

Plan for a minimum of five days in Honolulu, and more if you plan to visit other spots in Hawaii.

Photo credit: iStock/okimo

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.


Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

SOCC0223035

Maui, known as “The Valley Isle,” is a lush Hawaiian island famous for its whale and turtle sightings, as well as the Haleakalā volcano, which makes up 75% of the island. When it comes to the best things to do in Maui, of course a big part of the allure is just enjoying the fantastic scenery.

But there’s more to do than just gaze at the horizon. There are fantastic beaches and hiking trails to explore; there are cliff divers to watch and craters to climb. Plus it’s a food lover’s paradise.

To help you plan an amazing trip to this natural paradise, read on. You’ll learn the top 10 fun things to do on a Maui vacation, as well as tips to help you travel smarter.

Best Times to Go to Maui

There’s really not a bad time to go to Maui. The weather stays warm, with highs in the 75- to 85-degree range year-round during the day. Summer, especially July and early August, can be very popular, with singles, couples, and families embarking on summer travel. If you prefer to have a less crowded and more lowkey trip, you might prefer to plan your trip for April, May, or mid-August through September.

But if it’s whale-watching you’re after, January is the month to visit, because it’s their migration season.

Here are some annual events you might want to include in your travel plans.

•   February: Great Maui Whale Festival

•   March: Lahaina Whale and Ocean Arts Festival

•   May: Lei Day

•   June: Maui Film Festival

•   July: Lana’i Pineapple Festival

•   October: Hawai’ian Food & Wine Festival

•   December: Lighting of the Banyan Tree

Bad Times to Go to Maui

While there really isn’t a bad time to go to Maui, if you want to lessen the chance of getting rained on while enjoying the top things to do in Maui, avoid the rainy season, which is November to March. That said, Wailea, an area on the southwestern side of the island, has its own microclimate and tends to be drier year-round.

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Average Cost of a Maui Vacation

Hawaii isn’t known for being a budget traveler’s paradise. Because it’s an island, food has to be shipped in, which can cause it to cost more. And renting a car can get expensive, depending on the time of year and demand. But how much will your Maui vacation cost?

For a couple, expect to pay about $4,517 for a week in Maui. The actual cost will depend on your accommodations, largely. A hotel room can range from $102 to $467 a night, while a vacation rental could be about $240 to $440 per night. Keep in mind that these price estimates don’t include airfare getting to the island. When you are purchasing your tickets, you might want to use an airline credit card to rack up some bonus miles or other rewards.

You might also take advantage of book now, pay later travel to book flights when you see affordable options instead of waiting until the last minute when prices may spike.

One other expense to consider is travel insurance. Check if your credit card travel insurance will cover you; some card issuers offer this. Otherwise, you might rest easier if you buy a separate policy to protect yourself if something were to go awry.

10 Fun Must-Dos in Maui

Every Hawaiian island has its own unique features and things to do. Maui is an in-demand destination because of all of its incredible attractions. Here, based on travelers’ advice, locals’ picks, and the best-rated sights on the web, are 10 fun things to to when in Maui, Hawaii.

1. Watch the Cliff Divers at Black Rock

This event feels like an insider’s secret, but in reality, lele kawa, or cliff-diving off of Black Rock has been attracting thousands of tourists for 60 years. Hawaiians have been cliff-diving for centuries, and this twice-weekly ceremony, lasting about 10 minutes, continues the tradition.

Stake out a place to view the spectacular event at the Sheraton Maui before sunset. You don’t have to be a guest of the property to attend, though you may choose to enjoy a cocktail at the outdoor bar for prime seating. Otherwise, find a spot along the shore and wait for the torch lighting that signifies the start of this nightly ceremony. marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hnmsi-sheraton-maui-resort-and-spa/experiences/

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2. Go Ziplining

Another top thing to do in Maui: Ziplining, a great way to fulfill your need for speed and see the gorgeous landscape. There are several ziplining companies in Maui, allowing you to glide down lines above the treetops and take in breathtaking views of the island and the sea. One business, North Shore Zipline Company (nszipline.com/), operates on a historic World War II landmark site, and the guides provide interesting tidbits about Maui’s role in the war. Kapalua Ziplines’ Dual Zipline Mountain Adventure (kapaluaziplines.com/) is another option, allowing a pair of zipliners to glide down parallel paths together.

Prices can range from $100 to $200 or more, depending on how many ziplines you do. This attraction could be a good time to use plastic and reap some credit card rewards.

3. Savor a Luau

Some may find it a tad hokey, but a luau experience can be one of the most fun things to do in Maui for couples. These typically involve local delicacies (perhaps including roast pig cooked in the earth) and action-packed, flame-throwing dance performances. If you can go at sunset, you’ll likely have the backdrop of stunning pink and purple skies.

4. Snorkel with Turtles in Honokeana Bay

One of the top 10 things to do in Maui is snorkeling with sea turtles. While there are many places you can see them, sometimes the number of tourists scares them away at the more popular beaches. However, at sleepy Honokeana Bay, you’re more likely to bump into one.

This bay doesn’t have a sandy beach, so wear water shoes; you’ll likely have to climb over some possibly sharp lava rock to get into and out of the water. Bring an underwater camera to get a shot of these graceful creatures, but remember: Don’t touch them!

5. Follow the Road to Hana

If you love gorgeous road trips and don’t mind a few curves on your path, take a day to drive the Road to Hana. This winding road will have you cruising through rainforests, black beaches, sacred burial sites, and past gushing waterfalls. There are apps you can download to guide you to the best places to stop (and note: Cell service may be spotty, so download your map beforehand).

Another way to see this memorable sight: Let one of the local guides do the driving, and be a passenger. Plenty of options are available to tour this way.

6. Take to the Trails

Maui is truly a nature lover’s paradise, and there are hikes for every level of skill. For an easy, ambling hike along the coast, try Kapalua Coastal Trail, especially if you don’t have time to drive to one of the parks for a hike.

If you do have more time, try Waihe’e Ridge Trail, which rises 2,500 feet above sea level and puts you right in the heart of the mountains. You’ll also get to see some of the island’s most beautiful waterfalls.

7. Get Up Close to the Haleakalā Crater

At the heart of Maui is the Haleakalā volcano, which makes up 75% of the island. Visitors love watching the sunrise from the crater, though know that you need a reservation. You can also book a van or bike tour, camp, or explore the park on your own. The park is open 24 hours a day, while the visitor’s center is open 8 am to 3:45 pm There is a $1.50 fee per vehicle for sunrise; this low fee can be one of the ways families can afford to travel. haleakalacrater.com/

8. Cool Off With Shave Ice

No trip to Maui is complete until you’ve had shave ice from Ululani’s (that’s right; shave not shaved ice). Shave ice is a local treat and is just what it sounds like: bits of ice shaved from a block and doused with sweet syrup. It’s similar to a snow cone, though that’s made with crushed ice.

As for Ululani’s, this institution has been creating smiles with its sweet treats since 2008. Try a fun flavor like passionfruit, coconut, guava, mango, or macadamia nut on a hot day. ululanishawaiianshaveice.com/

9. Bask on a Black Sand Beach

Of course you need beach time, so why not head to the black sand beach of Waiʻānapanapa State Park? It’s a great selfie spot. The black color comes from eroded rock mixed with sand.

You can also picnic, swim, and snorkel there. If you’re traveling with a pet, know that the park allows leashed dogs, so it can be a good place to explore together.

To combat the throngs of visitors, the park now requires reservations, and entry is $5 per person plus a $10 parking fee. dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/maui/waianapanapa-state-park/

10. Sip Mai Tais at Sunset

Another of the best things to do on a Maui vacation is enjoy Happy Hour. There’s nothing more romantic in Maui than enjoying a Mai Tai as the sun dips below the sea. There are several places you can get a delicious cocktail, including Ka’anapali Beach Hotel and Duke’s Beach House. Some places get crowded at sunset, so it’s often best to make a reservation.

The Takeaway

A trip to Maui can provide the opportunity to see some true natural wonders, relax, hike, and eat amazingly well. With attractions like the Road to Hana and cliff-diving ceremonies, Maui offers diverse attractions that make a stay there amazingly memorable.

SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members. Through a partnership with Expedia, we make it easy to find the lowest rates and book your reservations — for flights, hotel rooms, car rentals, and more — all in one place. Earn 2x rewards when booking with your SoFi Mastercard or debit card. And when you redeem your SoFi rewards for travel, you get a 25% bonus: $100 of reward points are worth $125.

FAQ

What are the best things to do in Maui?

There’s plenty to do in Maui, from snorkeling with turtles to watching cliff divers at Black Rock. Also don’t miss experiencing a luau or the amazing sunsets over the water.

Where should I hike in Maui?

If you drive the Road to Hana, there are many trails along the way where you can view waterfalls. Other noteworthy hikes can be found at Kapalua Coastal Trail, Waihe’e Ridge Trail, and the Haleakalā Crater.

How long should I visit Maui?

With so much to see, not to mention the slow pace of the island, you’ll probably want to allow a minimum of five days in Maui.

Photo credit: iStock/Jacob Boomsma

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.


Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Alburquerque, New Mexico, can be an exciting destination to explore, whether you’re familiar with the Southwest or a first-timer. There’s the iconic hot air balloon festival, rugged landscapes, top-notch art museums, pueblos, and more to take in.

It’s New Mexico’s biggest city, with a modern downtown, but it also sits in the high desert and has retained elements of its past, making a fascinating town to visit for a weekend away or longer.

Here, you’ll learn some of the not-to-be-missed sights, as well as savvy tips to make your travel more enjoyable and get more for your money.

Best Times to Go to Albuquerque

The best time to go to Albuquerque is during the fall, between September and November. The temperature is warm and pleasant, in the 60s to 80s. October is also when the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta happens.

That said, the nine days of the Balloon Fiesta (the first two weekends in October, and the week between) are by far the most popular times to visit this otherwise quiet city. So expect to pay a premium for flights and hotels during this time.

Bad Times to Go to Albuquerque

June through September is the rainy season in the Southwest, but in between the rain, the city is warm and inviting. However, for some people, it may be too warm: The average daytime temperature in July can rise above 90 degrees. So that might put a damper on your summer travel.

Also keep in mind that the city isn’t all sunbaked and beautiful come winter. The average overnight temperature in January, the coldest month, is in the low 20s. Depending on your tolerance for cold and whether you plan on being outdoors much, that might be a less than ideal time to visit.

Average Cost of an Albuquerque Vacation

The estimated cost of a weeklong stay in Albuquerque for two people is $1,885 or $942 for one person. That doesn’t include transportation to get there and back, and of course prices will vary if you’re a traveler who’s happy at a basic chain hotel or one who prefers a high-end boutique location.

If you are visiting Albuquerque, you may want to look into staying in the Old Town area. Old Town is the site of the original city settlement in 1706, and has Native American and Spanish influences on the architecture and culture.

Prices to stay in Old Town will vary by time of year. For example, hotels in Old Town during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta during the first week of October will cost about $500 a night or more. If you go just two weeks later, the same hotels run $150 to $250 a night, which can be a good tactic for how to save money on hotels. And thankfully, the town’s famous New Mexican food is surprisingly affordable, especially compared to fine dining in larger cities.

In general, Albuquerque is a fairly affordable city. Most attractions cost less than $30, with some costing only a few dollars. You can also find affordable and incredibly delicious food in the city. (Don’t miss the breakfast burritos, which can keep you fueled for hours, or the red chile enchiladas; more on food below.)

When you are booking a trip, you may see a “book now pay later” travel option. Proceed with caution: You could end up paying more in interest if you use this method.

Instead, you should save money ahead of time to use to pay for your trip. Make sure to research where to keep travel fund when saving for a trip. A high-yield savings account might be your best option as your money will be accessible but will also enjoy some growth as you save.

If you are thinking about booking a trip to Albuquerque but are worried that you may have unforeseen circumstances causing you to cancel your trip, look into travel insurance as a safety net. If you pay for your trip with certain credit cards, they may provide travel insurance for certain situations. You should understand how credit card travel insurance works when deciding whether to purchase private travel insurance or use your credit card protections.

10 Fun Must-Dos in Albuquerque

Now, onto the fun part: Figuring out what fun things to do in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This list was culled from people who visit the city often, locals, and those attractions that are top-rated online. The top 10 list includes things like museums, parks and festivals, including free and affordable options. Worth noting: Albuquerque is not a very walkable city, so you may want to look into renting a car in order to see the various attractions.

1. Be Amazed by Those Albuquerque Balloons

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is known as one of the largest and best balloon festivals in the world. The area’s dry climate is ideal for hot air ballooning. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is held every year for one week during the first week of October. You can see over 500 colored hot air balloons each morning just before sunrise. It’s a mesmerizing and memorable sight to see those brilliantly colored balloons fill the sky. Plus, there are fireworks, skydiving, and all kinds of other sky-focused attractions, as well as music and more.

General admission is typically $15 for those 13 and up; younger kids are free. You can opt for glamping and shipping container cabanas right at the Fiesta, but these can be pricey. (If you go for it, put it on your card that earns the best credit card rewards.) Hotels will also be expensive and crowded during this week. balloonfiesta.com/

2. Spend Some Time at the International Balloon Museum

Whether you are visiting during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and want to learn more or are visiting without seeing the balloons, the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum is a great stop. You’ll learn so much about these incredible flying machines, and there are interactive exhibits to keep kids entertained. There’s even a balloon flight simulator.

The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission usually ranges from $3 to $6; the first Friday of the month is free as are Sundays between 9 am and 1 pm. balloonmuseum.com/

3. Take in an Incredible View

If you want to see the beautiful Albuquerque landscape from above, the Sandia Peak Tramway delivers. You’ll see the city and the Sandia Mountains as you ride three miles on a cable car up the summit of Sandia Peak. These rugged mountains reach a peak of over 10,000 feet and are part of the distinctive landscape you’ll find in this part of New Mexico.

It’s not just the heart-stopping tram ride that you’ll enjoy. At the peak, you can take in the views, hike along the trails, or grab a snack at the restaurant. Sandia Peak Tramway is open Wednesdays through Mondays, from 11 am to 7 pm. Sandia Peak Tramway tickets cost $23 to $33 roundtrip, depending on the guest’s age. sandiapeak.com/

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4. Marvel at Masterpieces

Ready to learn about the art, history, and culture of the Southwest? The Albuquerque Museum, located in Old Town, Albuquerque, has a large collection of historic artifacts from the area, and exhibitions that feature renowned artworks. Depending on when you visit and what is being shown, you might see some canvases by Georgia O’Keeffe or photographs of the Civil Rights Movement by Danny Lyon.

The Albuquerque Museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays, from 9 am to 5 pm, and tickets cost $3 – $6. cabq.gov/artsculture/albuquerque-museum

5. Relive the Best “Breaking Bad” Scenes

The TV show “Breaking Bad” took place and was filmed partly in Albuquerque. If you’re a fan, hop aboard the Breaking Bad RV Tour. You can ride on a replica Bounder RV, just like Walter used as a mobile lab on the show, and visit local filming spots. The tour guides all worked as actors or crew on “Breaking Bad” or the sequel “Better Call Saul,” which makes the tour that much more fun. Tours cost $95 and start at 10 am Thursdays through Mondays. breakingbadrvtours.com/

6. Visit a Pueblo

Puebloans, or Pueblo people, are Native Americans who are indigenous to the New Mexico region and have a rich, centuries-old culture, rooted in farming and their distinctive, compactly planned communities. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is owned by the Pueblos of New Mexico, and is an educational facility where Pueblo dancers perform and the Indian Pueblo Kitchen serves traditional dishes, like fry bread and blue corn porridge, as well as Southwestern dishes. The center is located near Old Town and is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 am to 4 pm. Tickets cost $8 to $12. indianpueblo.org/

7. Take a Closer Look at Turquoise

Turquoise, the mineral, has been prized for ages as a gemstone, given its brilliant, intense shade of blue. New Mexico is known for its Indigenous turquoise jewelry, and you will undoubtedly have the opportunity to purchase pieces while visiting the city. You can also trek over to the Turquoise Museum and learn the history of mining and crafting turquoise, as well as see plenty of specimens. The museum is open on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Admission to the museum costs $15 to $20. turquoisemuseum.com/

8. Discover the Flora and Fauna

A great way to spend an afternoon (or longer): Head to the ABQ BioPark, located in Old Town, Albuquerque. There’s much to see here, including a zoo with elephants, flamingos, and all kinds of other animals, an aquarium, a botanic garden, and Tingley Beach, which has free public fishing ponds (a great way to afford to travel as a family). The other attractions can be visited with individual tickets, costing in the range of $5 to $15 each, or with combination tickets, which can cost up to $22. The zoo, aquarium, and botanic gardens are open from 9 am to 5 pm daily, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. Tingley Beach is open from sunrise to sunset. cabq.gov/artsculture/biopark

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9. Get Your Fill at a Food Hall

Of course you’ll have plenty of great food options in New Mexico’s capital, but one fun stop is the Sawmill Market, which is billed as an artisanal food hall in the historic Sawmill district. You’ll have your pick of chicken mole tacos at Flora Taco To-Go, Frito pie at Red & Green, Mexican street food at Churro Y Corn, and Blueberry Mojitos at the Botanic Bar. sawmillmarket.com/

10. Trek along the Paseo del Bosque Trail

Ready to get outdoors and savor being in the Southwest? The Paseo del Bosque Trail can be one of the best things to do in Albuquerque. It’s a 17-mile paved walking and biking trail through central Albuquerque, running from the northern to southern edges of the Rio Grande’s cottonwood bosque, or forest. The trail is uninterrupted by road crossings, making it a great option for strolling when traveling with pets or young children. The trail also features public art, making it a terrific free thing to do in Albuquerque.

The Takeaway

Albuquerque is more than just its famous hot air balloon festival. The city can keep you busy with its array of museums, scenic views, indigenous culture, and great food. Among the top things to do in Albuquerque are getting acquainted with the history of the Puebloans, seeing the work of Southwestern artists, and spending a day in the city’s gardens and zoo. There’s plenty of fun to fill your days and nights.

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FAQ

What is Albuquerque famous for?

Albuquerque is most famous for its International Balloon Fiesta, which happens in the beginning of October each year. However, there are a lot of other things to do in Albuquerque throughout the year. It’s also famous for southwestern food, including dishes served “Christmas style,” covered in green or red chile sauce. For breakfast, go to any Wecks for huge portions of New Mexican favorites, but expect lines on the weekends.

How many days do you need to see Albuquerque?

Albuquerque is a small to mid-sized city, so you can probably see most attractions in a few days. Albuquerque is perfect for a long weekend trip.

What are things to do in Albuquerque with kids?

Albuquerque has several family-friendly attractions, like the ABQ BioPark and the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. There’s also the nature and science museum and the Explora kids museum, right next to each other. Most ticketed attractions in Albuquerque cost only a few dollars for kids, or are free.

Photo credit: iStock/Sean Pavone

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.


Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

**Terms, and conditions apply: The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.

When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.

Mid-cap stocks are shares of publicly traded companies with market capitalizations of about $2 billion to $10 billion. The range also indicates where they fall in the spectrum of valuation between small-cap and big-cap (sometimes called large-cap) companies.

Because the stocks are approximations based on a company’s current value, their classification might change over time. There are also pros and cons to investing in mid-cap stocks — as there are when investing in stocks of all types and sizes.

Market Capitalization Investing

Market capitalization is a company’s total value: the number of outstanding shares a company has multiplied by the current price per share. For example, a company with 40 million shares selling at $100 a share would have a market cap of $4 billion.

When investing, the case can be made for including small-, mid-, and big-cap stocks in your portfolio. But when thinking about the numbers involved — small-cap companies have a value of less than $2 billion, and large-cap companies have a value of over $10 billion — understand that the values also govern potential growth.

In other words, small-cap stocks might grow into mid-cap stocks. But a large-cap stock can only stay a large-cap stock unless the value goes down. (Investors have informally come up with valuation categories for nano cap stocks, micro-cap stocks, and mega-cap stocks, but there isn’t a broad consensus about their cutoff values.)

Either way, when investing, the hope is generally for stocks to increase in value or appreciate — and the prevailing wisdom is that small- and mid-cap stocks are appealing because they have room to grow.


💡 Quick Tip: Before opening an investment account, know your investment objectives, time horizon, and risk tolerance. These fundamentals will help keep your strategy on track and with the aim of meeting your goals.

Market Cap As a Basic Investor Tool

Knowing the market cap of a company can help investors compare the company to others of similar size. An investor choosing auto-manufacturing stocks could look at mid-cap companies in that particular market sector and compare how they are doing against one another.

To dig even deeper into the basics, it’s good to understand the difference between stocks and bonds. Bonds are a type of debt instrument, whereas stocks represent ownership in a company. Generally, stocks have the potential to offer the highest gains, while bonds are generally safer.

Investing In Mid-Cap Stocks

Finding an investment strategy that makes sense for you is largely about understanding the trade-offs involved. There’s really no such thing as a sure thing in finance, and probably the only way to think about the “best” mid-cap stocks is to look for ones that will offer a return on investment — and ideally a large one, sooner rather than later.

Beyond that, here’s a look at a couple of possible advantages and disadvantages of investing in mid-cap stocks.

Growth, Earnings, Capital

Pro: Whether mid-cap stocks are the sole investments being targeted for a portfolio or they’re part of a more diverse selection, a good argument for them is that they are often companies that are trying to expand.

These are established companies in industries that are experiencing rapid growth, or are expected to. And thanks to that growth, the average mid-cap company’s earnings often grow at a faster rate than the average small cap, and with less stock volatility and risk.

Most mid-cap companies are small caps that have burgeoned, and some are on their way to becoming large-cap businesses. Growth eases the ability to access financing to fuel expansion, so mid-caps typically have an easier time obtaining financing than small caps do.

Investing in mid-cap stocks can be the happy medium between small-cap growth and large-cap stability.

Con: Mid-cap stocks can be more vulnerable than large-cap ones. Being middle tier, by definition, means such companies don’t have as much capital to sustain them through market downturns as big-cap companies do.

And because they are also not massive companies like large-cap companies with a value over $10 billion, it also means they are not as diversified as bigger-cap companies. If the market for that company disappears, the company is also at risk.

Performance

Pro: Because $2 billion to $10 billion is a sizable range of valuations, it means that mid-cap stocks often outperform large- and small-cap stocks just because it’s a markedly wide net of stocks. There are no guarantees that that will happen, of course, which is very important to keep in mind. And, naturally, historical performance is not necessarily an indicator of what will happen in the future.

Con: Investment risk is risk, and even those who don’t dabble in investing likely know that something that seems low risk isn’t the same as something that is not a risk. It doesn’t matter how many reports you read — there are always exceptions. It’s still a good idea to read up on different strategies and try to develop a sense of why some investments are riskier than others.


💡 Quick Tip: How to manage potential risk factors in a self directed investment account? Doing your research and employing strategies like dollar-cost averaging and diversification may help mitigate financial risk when trading stocks.

Researching Mid-Cap Stocks

Many mid-cap companies are household names, and you’d likely recognize a whole host of them. Even so, it’s best for anyone interested in investing in mid-cap stocks to do their homework — look at who’s running the company, who’s already invested, and what the stated goals in earnings and annual reports are.

And it might be smart to consult a financial professional if you need guidance.

It’s tempting to think of a “hot tip” as something you must rush to get in on, but it’s worth taking a breath and considering what you might be overlooking by fixating on something that seems lucrative but also requires urgent action. Again, do your homework.

The Takeaway

Market capitalization is a way for investors to understand the value of different companies and compare their performance and outlook, and mid-cap stocks — which can be seen as lying between small-cap growth and big-cap stability — are one investment strategy to consider.

But there are pros and cons to investing in mid-cap stocks, as there are when investing in other types of stocks. It’s always best to do as much research as you deem necessary before making decisions, and even consider consulting with a financial professional.

Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an investment account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds, alternative funds, and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

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