Highlighting the rich native culture, art from around the world, science & technology, history and more, the museums in Waikiki and beyond give you a deeper understanding of the special place that Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk calls home. Discover hands-on activities, play in kid-friendly exhibits, and watch intriguing demonstrations at a variety of educational venues across the island. So, which will you choose to visit first? Read on for our guide to what you can see and do at each.
Photo Credit: Hawai‘i Tourism Authority / Tor Johnson
Bishop Museum
As the premier natural and cultural history museum in the state, you'll get to immerse yourself in Hawaiʻi's rich culture and heritage. Take in a show at the planetarium, climb inside a (pretend) volcano to learn about lava, and gaze up at a life-size model of a sperm whale in the Hawaiian Hall. Bonus: as a hotel guest, you'll receive one free child admission with each paying adult.
Capitol Modern
Formerly known as the Hawai‘i State Art Museum, this downtown attraction presents the largest collection of works by contemporary Hawai‘i artists, and good news: it's free. Make sure to step out into the Sculpture Garden to explore playful statues and the glass reflection pool.
Honolulu Museum of Art
Wander the courtyards and indoor-outdoor galleries to view over 55,000 pieces of art including Asian art, American and European painting and decorative arts, 19th- and 20th-century art, and traditional works from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. Through the museum you can also book a tour of stunning Shangri La, the former oceanfront residence of heiress Doris Duke, now a museum of Islamic art, culture and design.
Photo Credit: Hawai‘i Tourism Authority / Tor Johnson
‘Iolani Palace
Don't miss a chance to tour the only royal residence in the United States. Built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, ‘Iolani Palace was the home of Hawai‘i's last reigning monarchs until the overthrow of the monarchy in 1893. Admire the grandeur of the Grand Hall, State Dining Room and Throne Room featuring original palace furnishings and artifacts. Visit on a Friday at 12 p.m. to hear the weekly live concert by the Royal Hawaiian Band on the palace grounds
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Learn about World War II history and the events of December 7, 1941 – the attack on Pearl Harbor – at multiple venues, each telling a piece of the story. Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial museum, USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Oklahoma and USS Utah Memorials, Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum to find out more about that fateful day and honor the lives lost.
The Royal Room
Part classroom and part gallery, The Royal Room is located steps away from the hotel at Waikiki Beach Walk. Curated by the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame, the museum-quality interactive exhibits focus on the musical heritage of Hawai‘i as well as the art of Hawaiian feather lei making and its significance to Hawaiian royalty. Join a feather work class offered Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Call 808-499-7408 for reservations.
Photo Credit: U.S. Army Museum of Hawai‘i
U.S. Army Museum of Hawai‘i
Just a block away from Embassy Suites, stop into this free museum to learn about Hawai‘i's military heritage. Located in Battery Randolph, a former coast artillery fort, you'll be able to view displays, photographs, artifacts and exhibits on Hawaiian warfare, the Vietnam War, a Gallery of Heroes, and more.
Header Photo Credit: Hawai‘i Tourism Authority / Tor Johnson