Visiting Hawaii is not all about beaches, sunshine, sightseeing, and relaxing. Well, mostly…but there is a layer of Hawaii that is very important to understand, and educate yourself with during your trip.
Throughout the centuries, the Hawaiian Islands have developed a history that may be unmatched when compared with other places around the world. From the days of early Polynesian voyagers, to the Kingdom of Hawaii, world-famous surfers and being the birthplace and childhood residence of the current President of the United States, the long history of the islands is wrought with both proud moments and notable firsts in history, as well as tragic events, bloody battles, and emotional pain that is still evident throughout the islands today.
An exploration of Hawaiian history may be best taken at the Bishop Museum and the Iolani Palace. The Bishop Museum is located in Honolulu, a short drive from Waikiki Beach, and houses countless artifacts from Hawaii’s history. Founded in 1889, the museum was named for Bernice Pauhai Bishop by her husband, the founder of the museum, Charles Bishop, intending for the museum to house family heirlooms that were passed down to him through the royal lineage of his wife.
Today, the exhibits and artifacts at the museum contain many of the most important pieces in Hawaii’s history, including:
- Feathered cloaks and helmets worn by Hawaiian royalty
- Duke Kahanamoku’s surfboard
- King Kamehameha’s royal cloak
- Authentic fishhooks and nets from ancient Hawaii
- Documents from the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii
In addition, the history of the islands is told throughout the museum, with an expert museum guide taking you through the entire history of Hawaii. As you make your way through the museum, it becomes clear that the islands have been through their fair share of suffering.
Perhaps the greatest symbol of that suffering is the Iolani Palace. The site of the official overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii by the United States Government in 1893, the Iolani Palace served as the capitol building in the varying forms of Government until 1969. Following the official overthrown of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Queen Liliuokalani lived in the palace until her death in 1917, the last monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii.
Today, the Iolani Palace serves many educational purposes, from guided historical tours, to a symbol of Hawaii’s past, reminding locals and visitors of the importance of the Hawaiian Kingdom. As part of the Hawaii Monarch’s Tour, a guided tour of the Iolani Palace is included and brings to life the events that occurred on these sacred grounds.
There is no doubt that the museums of Hawaii are a terrific addition to any vacation. Learning the history of the islands will only deepen the love that you have developed, and give an understanding of the events that have unfolded over many centuries. A perfect tour for all ages, the Hawaii Monarch’s Tour is the best educational tour that we offer, and we are proud to carry on the history of Hawaii.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Oahu tours and Oahu activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance, especially our top seller Aloha Kai Luau. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.
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