Don't miss the chance to learn about Hawaiian history and see original artifacts from ancient times. Interact with Hawaiian traditions and discover so much more at the Bishop Museum! Here’s all you need to know.
Know Before You Go to Bishop Museum
You can book tickets either upon entry or online. Save $2 with the code "ONLINE" if you book through their website. As part of the museum, there is also a planetarium - which you cannot enter without tickets.
The planetarium hosts various daily ticketed events. Fear not - tickets are free with admission! However, you can only purchase them in person. Check this page for descriptions of the events and daily showtimes.
Prices
- Adult - $28.95
- Youth 4-17 - $20.95
- Senior 65+ - $25.95
- Under 4 - FREE
Kamaaina (Hawaiian Resident) Prices
- Adult - $14.95
- Youth 4-17 - $10.95
- Senior 65+ - $12.95
- Under 4 - FREE
Open Hours
- Daily 9 am - 5 pm
Getting There
The museum is located at 1525 Bernice Street, Honolulu. This page has more detailed directions on getting to the museum. At the museum, there are two parking lots. There is one small one directly in front of the entrance.
However, if it’s full, there is additional parking off to the right of the entrance. And, if you’re feeling peckish, there is a cafe just off the entrance of the museum. They serve Hawaiian food from 11 am-2 pm daily!
RELATED: 20 Must-Visit Historic Sites on Oahu
Highlights of the Museum
Hawaiian Hall
The Bishop Museum is massive - there are several buildings and galleries, covering a large variety of topics. The Hawaiian Hall is the main attraction, a massive room that's 3 floors tall and filled to the brim with ancient Hawaiian artifacts, historical papers, and other curiosities.
This room contains all that the museum is famous for:
- Original feather capes are worn by ancient Hawaiian monarchs,
- a huge collection of ancient weapons, tools, and other items,
- various ivory necklaces that royalty would’ve worn,
- and a vast array of other artifacts.
The top floor covers Hawaiian history chronologically - having an exhibit case for each monarch in order - and later on, detailing the downfall of the monarchy with historic records, images, and descriptions. The lower floors dig deep into Hawaiian traditions - weapons, food, hunting, culture, and more.
RELATED: 10 Things to Do on Oahu With Kids
Science Adventure Center
Another highlight of the museum is the Richard T. Mamiya Science Adventure Center. This building is across the courtyard from the room mentioned above - and it looks like a modern building. It is opposed to the 1889 building the Hawaiian Hall is located in.
This entire building is highly kid-friendly - with interactive exhibits everywhere you look. These exhibits cover things like volcanology, oceanography, and native Hawaiian animal species.
We suggest being there at 12:30 pm or 2:30 pm. You’ll have the opportunity to watch a demonstration of lava being created as actual lava rocks are melted! It’s definitely worth it, especially if you have interested kids.
There are also several special exhibits throughout the museum that are always changing. These special exhibits are always interesting, and definitely worth a visit.
Add Bishop Museum To Your Itinerary
The Bishop Museum is a beautiful and fascinating way to keep Hawaiian culture and traditions alive and is a delightful way to spend an afternoon. When you’re visiting Honolulu, add it to your itinerary! The museum is also located away from the bustle of Waikiki and downtown Honolulu - so it’s an excellent way to unwind. Have fun during your visit!
RELATED: Philanthropy and Aloha: Princess Pauahi Bishop
Like this article? Share it on Pinterest!
Are you visiting Oahu? Be sure to take Shaka Guide with you! We have 6 tours for Oahu.