Are you a real history buff and are you looking for the best history museums to visit in Hawaii? These are the ones:
1Battleship Missouri Memorial
Honolulu, HIThe USS Missouri (BB-63), affectionately known as 'Mighty Mo' or 'Big Mo', is an American Iowa-class battleship. It was the 14th battleship of the United States Navy named after the state of Missouri. This historic ship is a significant part of American naval history and is now a museum ship in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. 2Iolani Palace
Honolulu, HIThe 'Iolani Palace is a significant landmark located in the capitol district of downtown Honolulu, in the state of Hawaii, United States. It's a unique piece of American history, being the only royal palace used as an official residence by a reigning monarch in the United States. Its location in the heart of Honolulu makes it easily accessible for tourists. 3Uss Missouri
Waipahu, HIThe USS Missouri (BB-63), affectionately referred to as "Mighty Mo" or "Big Mo", is an American Iowa-class battleship. This historic vessel is named after the state of Missouri and is one of the last battleships built by the United States. It's a significant part of American naval history and a key attraction for visitors interested in military history. 4Uss Bowfin Submarine Museum
Waipahu, HIThe USS Bowfin (SS/AGSS-287) is a Balao-class submarine that served in the United States Navy during World War II. This historic vessel is now preserved as a museum and memorial at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a piece of naval history and gain insights into the life and operations of a World War II submarine. 5Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum
Honolulu, HIThe Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, also known as the Hawaiʻi State Museum of Natural and Cultural History, is a significant institution founded in 1889. Charles Reed Bishop established it in honor of his late wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, who was the last descendant of the Kamehameha royal family. This historical connection adds a layer of depth to the museum's cultural significance. 6Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Honolulu, HI 7Queen Emma Summer Palace Museum
Honolulu, HIThe Queen Emma Summer Palace, also known as Hānaiakamalama, was a retreat for Queen Emma of Hawaii, her husband King Kamehameha IV, and their son, Prince Albert Edward, from 1857 to 1885. This historic landmark offers a glimpse into the lives of the Hawaiian royalty during the 19th century. 8Hawaii Mission Houses Museum
Honolulu, HIThe Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives, located in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a significant historical site established in 1920. It was founded by the Hawaiian Mission Children's Society, a private, non-profit organization and genealogical society, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Christian missionaries in Hawaiʻi. This site offers a unique insight into the history and culture of Hawaii, making it a worthwhile visit for tourists interested in history. 9United States Army Museum of Hawaii
Honolulu, HIThe 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. 10Washington Place
Honolulu, HIWashington 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. 11Huliheʻe Palace
Kailua-Kona, HIThe Huliheʻe Palace is situated in the historic town of Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi, on Ali'i Drive. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Hawaiian Kingdom. The palace, once a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, now serves as a museum showcasing furniture and artifacts from the era. 12USS Arizona Memorial
Waipahu, HIThe 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. 13Kauai Museum
Lihue, HIThe Kauaʻi Museum is housed in the historic Albert Spencer Wilcox Building, which was originally opened as a library in 1924. This building, located in Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi, Hawaii, was later converted into the museum that we know today. It's a significant part of the island's history and a testament to the evolution of its cultural institutions. 14Waiʻoli Huiʻia Church and Mission House
Hanalei, HIThe Waiʻoli Mission District, located at Hanalei Bay on Route 560 along the north shore of the island of Kauaʻi, is a historic mission site. The first permanent missionaries arrived in the area in 1834, marking the beginning of its rich history. The district was recognized for its historical significance and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. 15Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Honolulu, HIThe Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, previously known as the Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor, is a non-profit organization that was established in 1999. The primary aim of this organization was to develop an aviation museum in Hawaii. This museum is a part of Senator Daniel Inouye's vision for the revival of Ford Island and houses a variety of aviation exhibits, most of which are directly related to the attack on Pearl Harbor and World War II. 16The Pacific Tsunami Museum
Hilo, HIThe Pacific Tsunami Museum, located in Hilo, Hawaii, is a dedicated space for understanding and exploring the history of significant tsunamis, specifically the Pacific tsunami of April 1, 1946, and the Chilean tsunami of May 23, 1960. These catastrophic events had a profound impact on the east coast of the Big Island, particularly Hilo, and the museum serves as a testament to these historical occurrences. 17Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
Kahului, HIThe Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum is situated in the sugarcane growing and milling community of Puʻunene, in Kahului, Maui, Hawaii. The museum showcases the history of Hawaiian sugarcane plantations, and the role of Alexander & Baldwin in the sugarcane industry in Hawaii. The company, which continues to produce sugarcane, has played a significant role in the industry's development. 18Kahanu Garden
Hana, HIKahanu Garden and Preserve is a botanical garden situated on the Hana Highway near Hana, Maui, Hawaii. It is part of the non-profit National Tropical Botanical Garden, which includes four other gardens. The garden, established in 1972, is nestled on Maui's northern coast, characterized by rugged black lava seascapes and surrounded by one of Hawaii's last undisturbed hala forests. 19Polynesian Cultural Center
Laie, HIThe Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is a cultural tourist attraction and living museum that is family-centered. It is located in Laie, on the northern shore of Oahu, Hawaii. The PCC provides an immersive experience into the Polynesian culture, making it an ideal destination for families and individuals interested in learning about the rich history and traditions of Polynesia. 20Queen Emma Summer Palace
Honolulu, HIThe Queen Emma Summer Palace, also known as Hānaiakamalama, was a retreat for Queen Emma of Hawaii, her husband King Kamehameha IV, and their son, Prince Albert Edward, from 1857 to 1885. This historical context adds a layer of significance to the site, making it a place of interest for those keen on learning about the Hawaiian monarchy. 21Wo Hing Temple Museum
Lahaina, HIThe Wo Hing Society Hall, located at 858 Front Street in the Lahaina Historic District in Lahaina, Hawaii, was built around 1912. It served as a social and fraternal hall for the Wo Hing Society, catering to the growing Chinese population in Lahaina, most of whom were working in the sugarcane industry. 22Grove Farm Homestead & Sugar Plantation Museum
Lihue, HIGrove Farm is a significant historical site located on Kauai in the Hawaiian Islands. It was established in 1854 by Hermann A. Widemann, a German immigrant, and is recognized as one of the first sugarcane plantations in Hawaii. This site provides a unique insight into the early agricultural history of the islands and the role of immigrants in shaping its landscape. 23Parker Ranch
Waimea, HIParker Ranch, located on the Island of Hawaii, is a functioning cattle ranch currently managed by a charitable trust. This ranch has a rich history and continues to operate, providing a unique glimpse into the ranching lifestyle in Hawaii. 24Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives
Honolulu, HIIn 1962, the Mission Houses and the Kawaiahaʻo Church, both constructed by the early missionaries, were recognized as a U.S. National Historic Landmark under the combined name Kawaiahao Church and Mission Houses. 25Lyman Museum and Mission House
Hilo, HIThe Lyman House Memorial Museum, also known as the Lyman Museum and Lyman House, is a natural history museum based in Hilo, Hawaii. It was founded in 1931 in the Lyman family mission house, which was originally built in 1838. This makes it a significant historical site, as well as a place of interest for those keen on natural history. 26Waiʻoli Mission House
Hanalei, HIThe Waiʻoli Mission District is located at Hanalei Bay, along Route 560 on the north shore of the island of Kauaʻi. This site is of historical significance as it was the location of a mission. The first permanent missionaries arrived in the area in 1834, and the district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. The building, known as the Wai‘oli Mission House, is now a museum open to the public. 27Onizuka Center for International Astronomy
Maunakea, HIThe Onizuka Center for International Astronomy, also known as Hale Pōhaku, is a complex of support facilities for the Mauna Kea Observatory on Hawaiʻi island. It is located at the 9,300-foot elevation, south of the summit. The center consists of dormitories with sleeping accommodation for 72, as well as a main building which houses shared facilities such as a cafeteria, laundry, and common room. However, there is no admission to these support facilities for the general public. 28Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii
Honolulu, HIThe Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii (JCCH) is a cultural center and history museum located in Moiliili, Hawaii. The center primarily focuses on the Japanese-American experience in Hawaii, with a special emphasis on internment. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the history and culture of Japanese-Americans in Hawaii. 29Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House
Wailuku, HIHale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House, also known as the House of Display at Old Bailey House, is a museum situated in Wailuku, on the island of Maui, in Hawaiʻi. This museum is dedicated to the history and art of Hawaii, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the region's cultural and historical background. It is managed by the Maui Historical Society and is a significant part of the Wailuku Civic Center Historic District. 30East Hawaii Cultural Center
Hilo, HIThe East Hawaii Cultural Center (EHCC) is a cultural hub situated in Hilo on the island of Hawaii. Established in 1967, the center is managed by the East Hawaii Cultural Council, an umbrella organization of local art associations. The EHCC is dedicated to showcasing both traditional and contemporary local art and culture. 31Baldwin Home Museum
Lahaina, HIIn January 1832, Dwight Baldwin was first assigned to the mission in Waimea on the island of Hawaiʻi, where he served with Lorenzo Lyons at Imiola Church. Four years later, in 1836, he was sent to Waineʻe Church, now known as Waiola Church, established by William Richards at Lahaina on the island of Maui. This location became the base for most of his career, marking a significant chapter in his life and the history of the islands. 32Mokupāpapa Discovery Center
Hilo, HIThe 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. 33Anna Ranch Heritage Center
Waimea, HIThe Anna Ranch Heritage Center is a historical site located in Waimea, Hawaii County, Hawaii. It was once a cattle ranch and is named after Anna Leialoha Lindsey Perry-Fiske, who managed the ranch from 1939 until her death in 1995. The ranch has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century and offers a unique insight into the ranching history of Hawaii. 34Liljestrand House
Honolulu, HIThe Liljestrand House is a significant architectural landmark in Honolulu, Hawaii. Located at 3300 Tantalus Drive, the house was designed by renowned architect Vladimir Ossipoff for Betty and Howard Liljestrand. The construction of the house was completed in 1952, marking a significant milestone in Ossipoff's career. The house's design and location offer a unique blend of architectural brilliance and natural beauty, making it a point of interest for tourists. 35H.N. Greenwell Store Museum
Kealakekua, HIThe Greenwell Store, a historic building, is currently managed as a museum by the Kona Historical Society. This establishment offers a glimpse into the past, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the history of the area and the people who lived there. 36The Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design
East Honolulu, HIThe Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design offers guided tours that depart from the Honolulu Museum of Art. These tours are operated in collaboration with the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art (DDFIA), providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the museum's collection and its historical context. 37Pioneer Mill Co. Smokestack and Locomotives Exhibit
Lahaina, HI- 38
H.N. Greenwell Store Museum - Kona Historical Society
Kealakekua, HIVisit to this shop will take you back in time to 1890s where this shop was a lively hub of the community. 39King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center
Honolulu, HI 40Isaacs Art Center
Waimea, HIThe Isaacs Art Center, located in Waimea on the Island of Hawaii, serves as both an art museum and a retail gallery. This unique combination allows visitors to not only appreciate a wide range of art but also purchase pieces that catch their eye. The center is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience for those visiting the island. 41Kona Coffee Living History Farm - Kona Historical Society
Captain Cook, HIThe Kona Coffee Living History Farm is situated on the Daisaku Uchida Coffee Farm in the Kona District on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a historic coffee farm and learn about the history of coffee farming in the region.- 42
Lahaina Public Library
Lahaina, HIThe site of the current library was used as Kamehameha III royal field and the Brick Palace was built here. Explore the excavations. - 43
Laupahoehoe Train Museum
Laupahoehoe, HIA charming, community-run museum presents the rich industrial history of Hawaii - there's more to it than you'd think. - 44
Lanai Culture & Heritage Center
Lanai City, HIRemarkable museum which presents Lanai's natural history, Hawaiian traditions and the history of plantations. Plenty of ancient artifacts! - 45
Honolulu Police Department Museum
Honolulu, HI - 46
Hawaii's Plantation Village
Waipahu, HI - 47
Maui Okinawa Cultural Center
Wailuku, HI - 48
Honokaa Heritage Center
Honokaa, HI