Free Museums in Hawaii

The Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden is a vast 322-hectare (400-acre) botanical garden situated in Kāne'ohe, Oahu, Hawaii. This expansive garden offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of plant species in a serene and picturesque setting.

The Lyon Arboretum, also known as the Harold L. Lyon Arboretum, is a sprawling 200-acre arboretum and botanical garden. It is managed by the University of Hawaii in Manoa and is situated in the southeastern part of Oahu Island, Hawaii. This vast expanse of greenery offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of plant species in a serene and beautiful environment.

The Hawaiʻi State Art Museum is open to the public from Monday to Saturday, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. This allows ample time for tourists to explore the museum's exhibits. Additionally, admission to the museum is free at all times, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.

The museum's collection includes a variety of World War II armor pieces, an AH-1 Cobra helicopter, and small arms displayed indoors. The battery itself is also part of the museum's collection. These exhibits provide a comprehensive view of the military equipment used in various wars.

Washington Place is a historic palace located in downtown Honolulu, Hawaii. It is built in the Greek Revivalist style, which is characterized by its grandeur and elegance. The palace was constructed between 1844 and 1847 for an American merchant, John Dominis, who unfortunately got lost at sea in 1846 when the building was almost ready. The palace was later converted into a boarding house by his widow, Mary. It was named 'Washington Place' in 1848 in honor of George Washington, the first President of the United States.

The Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo, situated in Hilo, Hawaiʻi, is a unique attraction in the United States as it is the only zoo located within a rainforest. Spanning a compact area of 12 acres, this zoo offers a distinctive experience for visitors who are interested in exploring the diverse flora and fauna of a rainforest environment.

The USS Arizona Memorial is a significant historical site located in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. It serves as a museum and a memorial, marking the former mooring of the USS Arizona, a ship that was sunk by Japanese troops during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. This site is a poignant reminder of the events that led to the United States' formal entry into World War II.

The S. Hata Building, a historic structure in Hilo, Hawaii, was built in 1912 by Japanese businessman Hata Sadanosuke. Today, it houses specialty shops, professional offices, and a Cafe Pesto restaurant. This building is a testament to the rich history and cultural diversity of Hilo, offering visitors a unique blend of past and present.

The John Young Museum of Art is situated on the campus of the University of Hawaii at Manoa, specifically in Krauss Hall at 2500 Dole Street, Honolulu, HI 96822. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the university or the city of Honolulu.

The museum is housed in an ancient courthouse and jail which was used from 1871-1978. Some rare historic artifacts can be found here.

Remarkable museum which presents Lanai's natural history, Hawaiian traditions and the history of plantations. Plenty of ancient artifacts!

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Botanical Gardens is a botanical garden and university palmetum situated on the campus of the University of Hawaiʻi in Hilo, Hawaii. This garden, spanning 33 acres, is a part of the university's campus and serves as a living laboratory for various faculties, including the Faculty of Pharmacy.