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Washington, D.C. is an amazing East Coast destination that seamlessly balances history and culture. Not only are there a lot of free things to do in the nation’s capital, but it’s a central hub for art and shopping, which means something is always happening in DC.

If a trip to Washington, D.C., is in your future, keep reading to explore the best and worst times to visit, how much you can expect to spend while you’re there, and some of the best things to do while exploring the city.

Best Times to Go to Washington, D.C.

As the nation’s capital, DC is never quiet., but certain times of the year are busier than others.

Like many tourist destinations, the mild months of fall and spring are the best times to visit DC. However, if you appreciate cherry blossoms, then you may want to plan your visit for mid-March or April. Each year, local horticulturists keep the internet up to date with when they expect the cherry blossoms to go into full bloom. Start reading predictions in February to narrow down your visit windows.

Remember that one of the top travel hacks is to book your stay well in advance. This not only helps you save money, but also gives you an idea of what’s going on when you arrive. If you plan to book during peak tourist season, book early so you’re still able to lodge and dine at your top picks.

Recommended: Financial Prep for Travel

Bad Times to Go to Washington, D.C.

For weather, consider that DC is known for both hot summers and cold winters. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures in the high 80s and low 90s. December through February are the coldest, with temperatures typically in the mid 30s. February is when DC experiences the most snow, with an average monthly snowfall of 5.8 inches.

Considering all of these factors, you may try to avoid DC in January, February, May, June, July, and August.

Average Cost of a Washington, D.C. Vacation

The first step to creating a travel fund involves knowing what you are likely to spend in a new city. Budget Your Trip states that travelers spend, on average, around $30 a day on meals and $37 per day on traveling when visiting DC.

For lodging, the average price for a one night stay in a hotel is $181 a night, though you may be able to save money on hotels by joining the chain’s membership club or using other discounts, like AAA.

Therefore, for one week of traveling, you can expect to spend:

One Person:

•  $210 on meals

•  $259 on traveling

•  $1,267 on lodging

  Total: $1,736

Couple:

•  $420 on meals

•  $518 on traveling

•  $1,267 on lodging

  Total: $2,205

It’s worth noting, though, that you also need to get to DC for your trip. These costs don’t include plane tickets or gas money. If you are flying, you could use an airline travel card to get the most bang for your buck, or use online resources to get cheap flights.

You might also look into book now, pay later travel options when they are available, but be wary of winding up with too much credit card debt.

One last note: It may be wise to find out how credit card travel insurance works if your card issuer provides it. Otherwise, you might want to buy a premium to protect your plans and their cost.

Recommended: Where to Keep Your Travel Fund

10 Things You Must Do in Washington, D.C.

This list of top things to do in Washington DC was curated from savvy travelers, in-the-know locals, and highly-rated travel reviews. All of the locations listed below should provide a fun and unique experience as you tour our nation’s capital.

1. Visit the White House

If you’re wondering how families afford to travel, one of the main ways they do it is by researching free popular destinations. The White House is one of them. However, to visit the White House, you will have to make a tour request through your member of Congress (or your country’s embassy if you’re visiting from out of the country).

Tour requests must be made at least 21 days beforehand and no more than 90 days out. Because White House visits are very popular, you may not get to visit on the exact day you want.

2. Marvel at the Smithsonian Museum

One of the best fun things to do in Washington DC is to visit the Smithsonian Museum — which is actually a collection of multiple museums concentrated in one area. The museums are free to the public, but some exhibits may require special tickets.

These locations are packed with the very best of American history, natural history, contemporary art, and air and space. You can zoom in on what captures your interest, or break up the museums between multiple days to get the full experience. (This network also includes a few of the attractions listed separately below.) si.edu/visit

3. See the Animals at the National Zoo

The National Zoo is home to over 1,800 animals and 360 different species, and is located on over 163 acres. If you enjoy seeing the wonders of the natural world, consider visiting the National Zoo. Stroll the grounds, and see everything from the famous giant pandas to Panamanian golden frogs. It can easily fill a few hours, and is only a 10-minute taxi ride from the White House. si.edu/museums/national-zoo

4. Shop and Snack in Georgetown

If you appreciate Federal architecture, cobblestone streets, and collegiate atmospheres, one of the best things to do in Washington DC is to visit Georgetown. It is in one of the oldest neighborhoods in DC, and Georgetown University is home to historic architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds. Plus, there is a lot of shopping and dining in the area to enjoy. The streets are lined with boutiques, cafes, and more.

5. Stroll the National Mall

There are numerous free things to do in Washington DC, but if you’re on a fixed budget and are researching how to save money for a trip, then visiting the National Mall is a must. Not only is it free to the public, but it’s beautiful as well.

The National Mall is where you will find many of DC’s most iconic landmarks, which includes:

•  Lincoln Memorial

•  Reflecting Pool

•  WWII Memorial

•  United States Capitol

•  Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

If you also plan on visiting any of the Smithsonian exhibits, many of the galleries are at the National Mall.

6. Immerse Yourself in African History and Culture

You won’t need to make use of your credit card rewards to visit the National Museum of African History and Culture because admission is 100% free. However, you will need to schedule your visit, but this can easily be done online.

The National Museum of African History and Culture has a large array of exhibits that focus on African history, such as the Civil Rights Movement, the slave trade, music, pop culture, and much more. They also have a variety of workshops and live events throughout the year. si.edu/museums/african-american-museum

7. Enter the United States Capitol

So much history has been made at the United States Capitol. You can tour the Capitol free of charge and learn about the history of its halls. Tours typically run from 8:30 to 4:30, but they recommend making a reservation to ensure you get to visit on the day you want. They also have specialty tours that are around 45 minutes that focus on select topics pivotal to our nation’s history. visitthecapitol.gov/

8. Experience Washington National Cathedral

The National Cathedral has some of the best acoustics in the nation. Apart from tours and religious services, there are also a variety of cultural events at the Cathedral throughout the year that can allow you to enjoy music in this amazing setting. Check to see if there are any concerts while you’re visiting. You’ll be astounded by both the sound and the architecture. cathedral.org

9. Take a Walk in the Park

Also called Malcolm X Park, Meridian Hill is located in Columbia Heights. This park, located 1.5 miles north of the White House, is known for its cascading fountains, reflecting pool, statues, and scenic gardens. If you need some nature while visiting DC, put this one on your list. On Sunday afternoons, there’s usually a drum circle. Also: The park is dog-friendly, so if you’re traveling with a pet, this could be a great stop. nps.gov/places/meridian-hill-park.htm

10. Bask in Cherry Blossoms

Located in West Potomac Park, the Tidal Basin is home to the area’s cherry blossoms, which were gifted to the United States by Japan before WWII in 1912. People come from all over the world to admire them once they’re in full bloom, which usually happens in late March or early April. Even if you don’t normally appreciate such things, seeing thousands of these beautiful cherry blossoms is quite a sight.

The Takeaway

There are many things to do in Washington DC all year-round, but visiting in either the fall or summer can be wise to avoid weather peaks and congestion. Many of the locations you can visit in America’s capital are free, which is a bonus as you take in art and history.

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.

Wherever you’re going, get there with SoFi Travel.

FAQ

Is there a dress code for White House Tours?

No, there is not a dress code for visiting the White House. You may choose to dress casually or formally. The choice is up to you.

Is DC a walkable city?

Yes, DC is a walkable city. It also has a healthy public transportation system. At wmata.com, you can view the rates for 1-, 3-, and 7-day unlimited passes.

Can you take photos within the White House?

Photos are permitted within the White House, but if you bring a camera the lens cannot be any longer than three inches. Pictures taken with your phone are also permitted.

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Photo credit: iStock/SeanPavonePhoto

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi cardholders earn 2% unlimited cash back rewards when redeemed to save, invest, a statement credit, or pay down eligible SoFi debt.

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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You probably are well aware that you can swipe or tap your credit card almost anywhere you shop, and you likely also know that many retailers offer their own store credit cards. These store credit cards can give additional perks and benefits specific to their store.

Store credit cards come in two different forms — open-loop and closed-loop. An open-loop store credit card will typically have the logo of a payment network on it (such as Visa or Mastercard), and it can be used anywhere those networks are accepted.

A closed-loop store credit card, on the other hand, can generally only be used at the store that issued it. While there may be added benefits and rewards with a closed-loop store credit card, that may be offset by the limited places where you can use it. Still, it can make sense to have a store credit card, especially if you frequently shop at a particular retailer.

Here’s a closer look at how store cards compare to major credit cards, what their pros and cons are, and how store cards can impact credit.

What Is a Store Card?

A store credit card or retail credit card is a card issued by a store or retailer. There are two main types of store cards — open-loop and closed-loop store credit cards.

•  An open-loop store credit card is likely a Visa or Mastercard that simply is co-branded with the retailer’s name and logo, but good to use anywhere those networks are accepted.

•  A closed-loop store card, also called a private label credit card, can only be used at the retailer that issues the card.

How Store Cards Works

Open-loop store credit cards are typically Mastercard or Visa credit cards, and they can be used anywhere those payment networks are accepted. While it may be marketed or branded with the retailer’s logo and name, an open-loop store card works the same way any other credit card works.

On the other hand, a closed-loop store card is only accepted at the store that issued the card. If you try to use a closed-loop store credit card at any other place, it will be declined.

With either kind of card, you’ll get a statement each month with the charges you’ve made. You’ll be charged interest on any outstanding balance, just like with a general-purpose credit card.

Recommended: Charge Card vs. Credit Card

Pros and Cons of Store Cards

One pro of store credit cards is that they often give perks and rewards that are specific to that particular store. If you frequently shop at a particular retailer, it can be lucrative to get their store credit card. You may also be able to get a signup bonus for applying and being approved for the card.

On the other hand, a store credit card can be limiting, especially if it is a closed-loop credit card that you can’t use anywhere else. Many store credit cards also come with higher-than-average interest rates, so it can be wise to pay off your balance in full each month so you can avoid paying any extra.

Store Card vs Credit Card Compared

While there are some important differences between store cards and general-purpose credit cards, they also share some similarities.

Similarities

•  You get a monthly statement with a list of all of your purchases.

•  You’ll be charged interest on any outstanding balance.

•  Payment history and balance information typically reported to the major credit bureaus.

•  Open-loop store credit cards and general-purpose credit cards can both be used anywhere the payment network (Visa, Mastercard) is accepted.

Differences

There are also some key differences between store cards and credit cards that you’ll want to be aware of:

•  A closed-loop store card can only be used by the issuing retailer.

•  You may pay a higher interest rate for a store card.

•  The rewards you get will likely only be usable at the retailer.

Here is how these features stack up in chart form:

	Store Card	Credit Card
Where they can be used	A closed-loop store card can only be used at the retailer who issues it	Anywhere the payment network (e.g. Visa or Mastercard) is accepted
Interest rate	Varies, but often higher than general-purpose credit cards	Varies depending on the card
Rewards	Usually limited to discounts or benefits at one particular store	May have more flexible credit card rewards or cash back.

Recommended: How Many Credit Cards Should You Have?

Is It Easier to Get Store Cards?

How easy it will be to get any kind of credit card depends on the specific card and your own financial situation. However, it is generally believed that on average it is easier to get a store credit card than it is to get many other major credit cards.

In fact, at some stores, you may even be able to get approved in the middle of your transaction as you check out.

Can Store Cards Impact Credit?

Yes, store cards can impact your credit, either positively or negatively, depending on how you use them. That’s true of all credit cards and is part of how they work.

Just like any credit card, your store card information is also reported to the major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). That means that if you use your store card responsibly, you can help build your credit, while if you fall behind on payments and/or carry a balance, it might have a negative impact on your credit.

Which Is Right for You: Store Card or Credit Card?

Deciding whether a store card or regular credit card is right for you will depend on your own specific shopping habits and overall financial situation. If you frequently shop at a particular store or retailer, you may be able to take advantage of rewards, discounts, or other benefits that come with the store’s credit card.

However, general-purpose credit cards may offer better or more flexible rewards, in addition to having more flexibility in where you can use them.

The Takeaway

Store credit cards come in two different varieties — open-loop and closed-loop cards. An open-loop store card is one that may be branded or marketed as a store credit card, but can be used anywhere the card’s payment network (e.g. Visa or Mastercard) is accepted. A closed-loop store card can only be used at the store or retailer that issues it. While there can be good reasons to get a store credit card, you might be better off with a more flexible credit card that gives cash back or other flexible rewards.

If you’re in the market for a general-purpose credit card that gives outstanding cash-back rewards, you should consider the SoFi Credit Card. With the SoFi Credit Card, you can earn cash back with every eligible purchase, which you can then use for travel or to invest, save, or pay down eligible SoFi debt. You can also add an authorized user to your SoFi credit card as a possible way to earn additional rewards.

Shop smarter with the SoFi Credit Card.

FAQ

Which is better: a credit card or store card?

There isn’t a single right answer as to whether a credit card or a store card is better. Instead, it will depend on your own specific situation. If you are a frequent shopper at a particular store or retailer, it may make sense to open its store credit card and get those rewards. However, if you’re not especially loyal to certain stores, you might prefer to get a general-purpose credit card and earn rewards that way.

Does a store card count as a credit card?

A store credit card can be considered a credit card since you can carry a balance and get charged interest. But keep in mind that only open-loop store credit cards can be used more widely like other major credit cards.

What are the disadvantages of a store card?

While it can make sense to apply for a store card, depending on your financial situation and shopping habits, store cards may come with some disadvantages. Many store credit cards have interest rates that are higher than average, so it can be best to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid those steep charges. Additionally, closed-loop store cards can only be used at the retailer that issues them, which makes them less flexible.

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Photo credit: iStock/RgStudio

SoFi cardholders earn 2% unlimited cash back rewards when redeemed to save, invest, a statement credit, or pay down eligible SoFi debt.

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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Adding your spouse to a credit card could indirectly affect your credit, for better or for worse.

First, though, consider that many married people choose to combine their finances — using a joint bank account and treating all income as shared. Others keep some or all of their money separate.

But regardless of whether or not you choose to combine your finances, both partners will still have their own separate credit scores. Credit cards in the name of one spouse will not directly affect the credit of the other spouse.

If you add your spouse as an authorized user to a credit card in your name, it won’t affect your credit directly. However, how your spouse chooses to use their card can possibly impact your credit. If they don’t use the card responsibly and it impacts your ability to pay the monthly bill, your credit may suffer as a result.

Take a closer look at how adding your spouse to a credit card can affect credit.

Can Adding Your Spouse as a Co-borrower Affect Your Credit Score?

Adding your spouse as a co-borrower will not have an impact on your credit score directly. Simply having a spouse (or anyone) as a co-borrower or authorized user won’t affect your credit score. However, how your spouse uses the card may impact your credit. If they use the credit card responsibly then it may help your credit.

But if they spend more than you can afford to pay, your credit may be negatively affected.

Can Cosigning Affect Your Credit Score?

Cosigning on a loan, credit card, or other debt account can impact your credit score. Applying for a new credit account, even as a cosigner, will show up on your credit report. Having a new account on your credit may have a small impact just for opening the account.

Additionally, how you and your spouse use the new account will also affect your credit score, as your balance and payment history will be reported to both of your credit reports. For instance, a new account could raise your total credit limit, but if you don’t carry a balance, then your credit utilization would look smaller, which can be a positive.

If however, you use that credit you are granted and your credit utilization percentage goes up or you make late payments, then it could have a negative effect. For these reasons, the answer to “If I add my spouse to my credit card, will it help their credit?” is “Maybe.”

Recommended: Joint Accounts vs. Separate Accounts in Marriage

7 Ways You Can Help Your Spouse Build Credit

If you have good credit but your spouse does not, here are a few ways that you might consider helping them build credit:

1. Authorized User

If you already have good credit but your spouse does not, one thing that you can do is add them as an authorized user on a credit card. Having them on an account that you already have in good standing can help them to build their credit. Just make sure that they use their card responsibly or it can negatively impact both of your credit scores.

2. Secured Credit Card

If you don’t want to or can’t add them as an authorized user to one of your accounts, another option might be to have them apply for a secured credit card. With a secured credit card, you put down an initial deposit that serves as your credit line. As you make payments to your account, your available credit increases.

Depending on the card, you may be able to change from a secured card to a traditional or unsecured card after building your credit history.

3. Joint Credit Account

Like a joint bank account, a joint credit account is one where two people are both listed as owners of the account and are jointly responsible for usage. With a joint credit account, usage, balance and payment history will show up on both borrowers’ credit reports.

However, it’s worth noting that many major credit card issuers no longer allow joint credit card accounts. If you find one that does, then this could be an option to help build credit.

Recommended: How to Build Credit Over Time

4. Apply for a Small Loan

Another option to help build credit may be to apply for a small loan together. Getting a personal loan in both of your names may help build credit. One of the things many lenders look for in a credit report is a reliable history of on-time and regular payments. Taking out a small personal loan (and then regularly making payments) can help build credit history.

5. Review Credit Reports Together

Another tip for establishing credit is to regularly review both of your credit reports together. Your credit report contains a history of the different loan, credit card and other debt accounts that you have had. Going through your credit report regularly is a great habit to have as you can make sure that there are no errors, inconsistencies or incorrect information on your report. If there is, you can take steps to correct it, either with the account directly or the credit bureau.

You are entitled to one free credit report per year from each of the big three credit-reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). You can access your reports at AnnualCreditReport.com .

6. Discuss Money Management

Another great financial habit to have is to regularly discuss money management. You’ll want to work together on making sound financial decisions, setting financial goals, or deciding on big-ticket purchases. When both partners are involved in the household finances, it makes it easier to stay on the same financial page.

7. Establish and Stick to a Budget

One of the best habits that you can have to improve your finances is to establish and stick to a budget. A budget is a tool that helps you not spend money on things that are not important to you, so that you still have money to spend on the things that are important to you.

At its simplest, a budget can just be a listing of the expected income and expenses for a month. Sticking to a budget can just mean making sure that your income exceeds your expenses. There are a variety of methods you might try out and see how they work for you, such as the envelope system and the 50/30/20 budget rule, among others.

The Takeaway

Even if you combine finances in your marriage or partnership, each individual will still have their own credit report and credit score. Adding your spouse to a credit card account will not directly impact your credit score. However, the manner in which they use the card can have an affect on your credit.

Work together to set up sound financial habits so that both of you use your credit responsibly. Having a good credit score is one of the biggest financial assets that you will have in life.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

Will adding my spouse to my credit card build our credit?

It’s important to note that even if you combine your other finances, both you and your spouse will continue to have separate credit reports and credit scores. If you have good credit but your spouse does not, you could add them as an authorized user to one of your credit card accounts. Just make sure that they use the card responsibly, or it can have a negative impact on both of your scores.

Does my spouse affect my credit score?

Regardless of whether or not you combine finances in marriage, your credit scores remain individual accounts. Your spouse will not affect your credit score, unless you have joint accounts where both of you are listed as borrowers on the account. Another way your spouse can affect your credit score is if their spending or financial habits cause you to miss payments or increase balances on your own accounts.

Will lenders look at both spouses’ credit scores?

Whether or not lenders look at both spouses’ credit scores will depend on what type of loan you’re applying for. If you apply for an individual credit card, the lender will generally only look at your credit report. However, if you apply for a joint loan (such as a home mortgage), then lenders will look at both credit reports. If one spouse has poor credit, it may not make sense to apply in both spouses’ names.

What happens if I have a good credit score, but my spouse doesn’t?

One spouse’s credit score does not directly affect the credit score of the other spouse, unless they are joint borrowers. If you have a good credit score but your spouse does not, that may mean that you will want to apply for loans or mortgages in only your name.

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Photo credit: iStock/Eva-Katalin

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.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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