A great way to explore the past of Hawaii is to explore its ancient artifacts that are stored in the island’s many museums! In addition to learning about the island’s history and legends, you will get the chance to view world-class collections and exhibits of art, artifact and prized island treasures. Be sure to set some time aside to visit these, and add some background to your stay in paradise!
Below we show the highlights of the Big Island Museums on a map. If you click on the icons you will get a short description and opening hours. Browse further down this page for the Museum websites.
Descriptions of Big Island Museums
Laupahoehoe train museum
Restored from the old station master’s home, this museum commemorates the Hilo Railroad that operated between 1899 and 1946.
Opening hours – Mon-Fri: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Sat-Sun: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Jaggar Museum
Dedicated to the vulcanologist Thomas A. Jaggar, this museum offers cultural and geological displays along with photographs and videos of the Hawaiian volcanoes.
Opening hours – Daily: 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Kilauea Visitor Center
The center has a display of volcano-related photographs and artifacts. They also show a 25 min film about the Kilauea volcano every hour.
Opening hours – Daily: 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.
`Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii
This center explores the connection between Hawaiian cultural tradition and the science of Astronomy. They feature interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, tour groups and plenty of events throughout the year.
Opening hours – Tue-Sun: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
More information on the `Imiloa center for Astronomy
Lyman Museum & Mission House
The museum’s exhibitions demonstrate the natural and cultural history of Hawaii. The mission house features the furniture and everyday items used by the early missionary families.
Opening hours – Mon-Sat: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
More information on the Lyman Museum and Mission House in Hilo.
Mokupapapa
The discovery center for Hawaii’s remote coral reefs offers educational and interactive exhibits, including a 2,500 gallon aquarium!
Opening hours – Tue-Sat: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Pacific Tsunami Museum
The Hawaiian islands are vulnerable to tsunamis, and are regularly struck by a monster wave. The museum provides education about tsunamis and serves as a living memory to those who lost their lives in past tsunamis.
Opening hours – Mon-Sat: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Astronaut Ellison S. Onizuka Space Center
Dedicated to the memory of Hawaii’s first astronaut who died during the challenger mission in 1986. There are space-related exhibits and interactive displays. Located at the Kona International Airport (The tall, white building next to the flag poles between the Aloha and Hawaiian Airlines ticket counters).
Opening hours – Daily: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Closed Holidays)
The H.N. Greenwell Store
Operated by the Kona Historical Society, this museum is housed in the historic Greenwell Family Store built in 1875.It features amongst other costumed interpreters greeting and interacting with visitors and the portrayal of daily life in Hawaii in the 1890s.
Opening hours – Mon-Fri: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Hulihe’e Palace
Hulehe’e palace is the former vacation residence for Hawaiian royalty. The museum displays a collection of artifacts and personal memorabilia of Hawaiian royalty, and you can either join one of the guided tours or explore the museum yourself.
Hulihe`e Palace is located on Ali`i Drive in the historic village of Kailua-Kona. Opening hours – Daily: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Parker Ranch Historic Homes & Private Art Gallery
Tour the two historic homes filled with fine art to learn more about John Parker and his Hawaiian Cattle Kingdom.
Opening hours – Mon-Sat: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
More information on the Parker Ranch in Waimea.