Bishop Museum

Honolulu, Oahu

The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum is a cultural gathering place and education center that actively engages people in the presentation, exploration, and preservation of Hawaii's cultural heritage and natural history. When visiting Honolulu, it is a must see for those seeking a deeper understanding of what makes these islands and people so unique and special. A collection of 2.4 million Pacific Island and Hawaiian cultural objects, 1 million historical photographs, artworks and archival materials are the backbone of the museum. However, modern science exhibits, planetarium programs and temporary traveling exhibits engage learners of all ages make this facility a great family destination for those wanting to spend some time exploring knowledge. At a Glance: Highlights: An active learning environment for discovering Hawaii's culture, geology, and history with planetarium shows, science demonstrations featured in five distinct different museum buildings, and a learning garden. Location: Honolulu, Oahu Activity level: Easy Options: Allow 2 to 3 hours to explore the museum and demonstrations. Reservations: None needed Cost: $19.95 adult Youth (4 to 12) $14.95, 3 and under are free. Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays. Closed Tuesdays Founded in 1889 by Charles Reed bishop in honor of his late wife Bernice Pauahi, the original collection housed royal heirlooms of the dynasties of King Kamehameha and Kalakaua. By 1988 this museum was deemed the official Hawaii State Museum on Natural and Cultural History and the expanded facilities now foster many areas of learning. The striking stone built Hawaiian Hall was constructed in 1889 to 1903 has a classic Romanesque Revival style exterior that shelters the main artifacts of pre-contact Hawaiian culture within. From the first voyagers to the islands all the way through the present day era, the exhibits in this building give such a great sense of the people who originally inhabited this paradise. The 3-story tall main hall was renovated in 2006 and designed to give visitors a journey into the many levels of Hawaiian culture while changing floors. The realm of the gods, ocean and creation stories are found on the 1st floor, with the daily life of Hawaiian's and their interplay the natural world is featured on the 2nd  floor. On the top or 3rd floor the "Ali'i" (Alee-ee) or chiefs of the islands stories are told side by side with royal artifacts and some interpretive videos explaining historic evolution of Hawaiian culture. A huge replica whale hangs high above, dwarfed by this whale of a building whose ornate wooden floor to ceiling details create grandness in this expansive space. An adjacent gallery focuses on the connection between the other Pacific island cultures and their influence in Hawaii. Don't miss the "Kahili Gallery" on the downstairs near the entry to Hawaiian Hall. The painted portraits and royal feather…