Location: Downtown Honolulu
Top Things to do in Downtown Honolulu
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Top 10 Things to do in Downtown Honolulu, Hawaii (HI)
The mere mention of Hawaii is enough to prompt visions of grass skirts and colorful cocktails with tiny umbrellas. While you will find some kitsch in Honolulu, you’ll also find art museums, bike paths, and some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Popular Waikiki Beach has soft sands and great surf. For majestic Oahu views scramble to the top of Diamond Head – a 350-acre volcanic crater. Historic structures like Iolani Palace and Ali'iolani Hale are worth a visit on a non-beach day.
Restaurants in Honolulu
1. Bethel Street Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Bethel Street Gallery is located among 15 other galleries in Honolulu's Arts and Culture District. The gallery is artist owned and operated and features all Hawaii artists. Bethel Street is the largest artist run gallery in Hawaii and features work from several talented island artists. Open Monday through Friday 10:00 am - 6:00 p.m., Saturdays 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. and Sundays by appointment.
2. Honolulu's Police Department Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 99 reviews
Reviewed By COGuest
What a hidden gem. We learned so much history; not just about policing in Honolulu, but history of Hawaii, as well. Learned about how justice was meted out back in the days of the monarchy. Great artifacts, great photos. Really enjoyed the old moonshine still on display. Old Indian motorcycle has been beautifully kept up. Our guide, Eddie, is a veteran officer who is now retired and he knows so much, What an incredible font of info! So glad we stopped by. Thank you!
3. Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 97 reviews
The original headquarters of nineteenth-century American Protestant missionaries, this museum explains the history of American missionaries in Hawaii.
Reviewed By R8665XYmichaelw - Raleigh, United States
An overlooked historical landmark and museum. Fascinating and extremely knowledgeable guide, Mike - Curator of Public Programs (Michigan State University history grad), provided an amazing tour and was very patient with my incessant questions. We and the two other tour members touched on many issues, some of which remain sensitive/controversial topics today. Mike didn’t shy from any of the questions, answering with aplomb and incredible detail, presenting all viewpoints. Highly recommended!
4. Iolani Palace
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,478 reviews
Iolani Palace, the official residence of Hawaii’s monarchy, is a marvel of opulence, innovation and political intrigue. Meticulously restored to its former grandeur, this National Historic Landmark in downtown Honolulu tells of a time when their Majesties, King Kalakaua, who built the palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, walked its celebrated halls. Today, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular living restorations in all of Polynesia and immerse yourself in Hawaii’s royal heritage. E komo mai! Welcome!
Reviewed By nippys - Newcastle, United Kingdom
An excellant audio tour with lots of facts from the Hawaiian monarchy history, Lots of very interesting artifacts to see You have to wear shoe over covers to protect the palace floors, You buy your tickets from the small building in the grounds.
5. Chinese Art Exhibition Hall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
6. Foster Botanical Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 527 reviews
This 14-acre garden is home to over 4,000 species of rare tropical plants.
Reviewed By tarajean424 - Colleyville, United States
Foster botanical gardens are a great place to visit. The entry fee is reasonable and a great price. It's a nice place to visit and wasn't very busy when we went. There's a nice gift shop and the gardens are nicely kept. I would recommend that you wear bug spray as there are bugs that can bite you. Nice place for all ages.
7. Kuan Yin Temple
8. Hawaii State Art Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 142 reviews
Contemporary art of Hawaii and free, family-friendly events! 2nd floor of the No. 1 Capitol District Building, 250 South Hotel Street, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96813. Admission is free. Museum Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am to 4pm. Open late First Friday of each month, 6pm - 9pm (galleries close at 8:30pm). Closed Sunday and all state and federal holidays. All artwork on display has a connection to Hawaii (e.g. artist born or raised in Hawaii). Parking available across the street in the Ali'i Place parking structure (entrance at 1099 Alakea St, cash only) or at Iolani Palace (metered parking, 25 cent coins only). Several TheBus lines stop in front of or close to the building. If you are taking a taxi cab, there is a small pull in area on Richards St. Wheelchair access from the Richards St. entry gate, on the Richards St. side of the building.
Reviewed By gbot3000 - Vancouver, Canada
I ended up spending a few hours here viewing the two exhibits. The descriptions of the art are top-notch and make each piece more thought-provoking. Also, free admission!
9. Saint Andrew's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 93 reviews
Reviewed By SallyM1779 - Woodstown, United States
For a truly Hawaiian experience, even if you are not an Episcopalian, attend the Sunday 8 am hawaiian language service at this Cathedral. Very easy to access from Waikiki and near Iolani Palace and the Governor's Mansion if you are touring around Honolulu. We never miss it every time we go. The people are very friendly and hint hint sometimes the Royal Society is there to celebrate or commemorate a Royal's birthday! Fabulous piece of history
10. Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By X3046BJkarenp - Canberra, Australia
Built on land given to the Roman Catholic missionaries by King Kamehameha III, this beautiful cathedral is purported to be the oldest cathedral in the USA. It is a lovely sanctuary to go to and admire.
