Bishop Museum Honolulu
Discover the rich heritage of Hawaii and the Pacific at the Bishop Museum, featuring cultural artifacts, science exhibits, and a planetarium.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.
Bishop Museum Honolulu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the rich heritage of Hawaii and the Pacific at the Bishop Museum, featuring cultural artifacts, science exhibits, and a planetarium.
"A beautiful tribute to Hawaiian History! You get a really good grasp of how proud Hawaiians are of their ancestors."
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the extensive exhibits.
🚗 Parking fees apply
Expect an additional $18 parking fee on top of admission.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hawaiian Hall
Main Building
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Hawaiian people through vast collections of artifacts.
Dinosaur Exhibit
Science Building
Lifelike, moving dinosaurs that roar! A hit with kids and adults alike, offering an exciting prehistoric adventure.
Voyager "Hokule'a" Exhibit
Science Building
Explore the incredible story of Polynesian voyaging and the iconic double-hulled canoe, Hokule'a.
Planetarium Shows
Science Building
Experience captivating shows about the Hawaiian night sky and celestial navigation. Check showtimes upon arrival.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Sufficient Time
Parking & Transportation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the extensive exhibits. +1
🚗 Parking fees apply
Expect an additional $18 parking fee on top of admission.
✨ Kama'āina & Military Rates
Locals and military personnel can enjoy discounted admission.
🦕 Dino exhibit is a hit!
The interactive dinosaur exhibit is a major draw for families.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the extensive exhibits. +1
🚗 Parking fees apply
Expect an additional $18 parking fee on top of admission.
✨ Kama'āina & Military Rates
Locals and military personnel can enjoy discounted admission.
🦕 Dino exhibit is a hit!
The interactive dinosaur exhibit is a major draw for families.
🚀 Check planetarium schedule
Shows like 'The Hawaiian Sky Tonight' are engaging but not movies.
🛍️ Souvenirs beyond ABC Stores
Explore local markets for cheaper souvenirs than typical tourist shops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bishop Museum for its extensive collections on Hawaiian and Pacific Island cultures, particularly the impressive Hawaiian Hall and the engaging dinosaur exhibit. The planetarium shows and the story of Polynesian voyaging are also highlighted as educational and inspiring. However, some find the admission price and parking fees to be high, with a few feeling that certain exhibits are more suited for school groups than general adult exploration.
"Took our 2.5 year old who loves dinosaurs to see the dinosaur exhibit. The exhibit did not disappoint. The dinosaurs were lifelike and moved/made noises. While there we also went to the Hawaii Culture center to learn more about Hawaiian culture. You could spend days in the three floors of Hawaiian culture. We also went to the science building to learn about bees, lava, and wind. It was a great educational and fun visit."
Sue Hackett
"Cannot recommend this museum highly enough! It was fascinating to learn about the history and heritage of the Hawaiian people. The building itself and the grounds are beautiful and there are numerous fascinating artifacts, from throughout Hawaiian history. It is worth getting tickets in advance, as there is a slight discount."
Rani
"This museum is a must visit to get know the story of Hawaii. I visited the museum twice since I didn’t have enough time to see it all the first time I went. The building is beautiful and the display is extremely unique. They did a great job putting this together and keeping it in the shape it is today. I’m thankful I’m able to see it and show to our guests when they visit us on island. It is the first place I recommend them to visit. The museum also organizes dedicated events throughout the year, that are, in my opinion, extremely interesting. I try to miss out on them and take my family if we can.
Also need to add that the planetarium was a surprise and would definitely recommend it."
Austin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bishop Museum is located at 1525 Bernice Street, Honolulu, HI 96817. It's accessible by car, and ride-sharing services. The Waikiki Trolley also has a stop nearby, making it a convenient option for those staying in Waikiki.
Yes, the museum has its own gated parking lot. However, parking is an additional fee, typically around $18, and can fill up quickly, especially during events.
While the museum has a gated parking lot with a security guard, it's always wise to avoid leaving valuables visible in your car, as break-ins can occur in any urban area. +1
TheBus routes serve the area around the Bishop Museum, offering an affordable way to get there. Check TheBus schedules for the most convenient routes from your location.
The Bishop Museum is a short drive from Waikiki, typically about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. While some suggest getting out of Waikiki to explore, the museum is a worthwhile destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Bishop Museum is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for holidays or special events.
General admission for adults is around $38.95, with discounted rates for Kama'āina (local residents) and military personnel. Children under 4 are free. Look for online discount codes like DINO20 for potential savings.
Yes, Kama'āina (local residents) and military rates are available. The 'Museums for All' program offers free admission and parking with an EBT card. Online discount codes may also be available.
Tickets can be purchased at the admission counter upon arrival. However, booking online in advance might save time and potentially offer discounts.
While not explicitly mentioned in the provided data, it's worth checking if any Honolulu or Oahu city passes include admission to the Bishop Museum, as this could offer cost savings if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend at least 2-3 hours to see the main exhibits. However, you could easily spend a full day exploring everything, especially if you plan to attend planetarium shows or special exhibits. +1
Key highlights include the Hawaiian Hall, the Voyager 'Hokule'a' exhibit, the Science Adventure Center (featuring dinosaurs, lava, and bees), and the J. Watumull Planetarium.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly, especially with the popular dinosaur exhibit and interactive displays in the Science Adventure Center. Children under 4 get in free.
The Science Adventure Center offers interactive exhibits on topics like sound energy, bees, and lava. The dinosaur exhibit is also highly interactive with lifelike movements and sounds.
The planetarium offers shows like 'The Hawaiian Sky Tonight.' It's described as more of a lecture experience than a movie, so it's best for those who enjoy learning in that format.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafeteria where you can purchase lunch. It's a convenient option if you plan to spend several hours exploring the exhibits.
For authentic Hawaiian food, consider Helena's Hawaiian Food, a local favorite. Many other diverse dining options are available throughout Honolulu.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum. It's best to consume them in designated areas outside or before entering.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas of the museum. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain exhibits to protect artifacts. Always check for signage.
The grand architecture of the main building, the vibrant displays in the Hawaiian Hall, and the lifelike dinosaur models offer great photo opportunities. The exterior grounds are also picturesque.
While personal photography is usually permitted, it's important to be respectful of the artifacts and avoid touching them. Some special exhibits might have stricter photography rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum is educational, it’s also designed to be engaging for younger minds. The Hawaiian Hall can be explored at a child's pace, and the planetarium shows, while lecture-style, can still be fascinating for curious youngsters. Remember to allocate enough time, as kids might want to revisit their favorite exhibits.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Consider dedicating a significant portion of your day to the museum to fully absorb the information. Reading the signage and engaging with the exhibits thoughtfully will yield the most rewarding experience. If you're also interested in the only royal palace in the US, 'Iolani Palace is a complementary historical site nearby that offers a different perspective on Hawaiian royalty.
💰 Budget Travelers
The 'Museums for All' program offers free admission and parking with an EBT card, which is a significant saving. Additionally, keep an eye out for online discount codes, such as 'DINO20', which can reduce the general admission cost. To maximize value, plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here to experience the core exhibits. Consider packing snacks or a light lunch to enjoy outside the museum, or utilize their cafeteria for a more convenient, though potentially pricier, meal option.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Hawaiian Culture and History
Beyond the main Hawaiian exhibits, the museum delves into the broader Polynesian voyaging tradition. The Voyager 'Hokule'a' exhibit is particularly inspiring, showcasing the ingenuity and skill of ancient navigators who explored vast oceans using celestial cues and natural signs. This section offers a profound insight into the spirit of exploration that shaped the Pacific.
For those interested in the natural world, the Science Adventure Center provides a fascinating contrast. It features exhibits on geology, botany, and marine biology, with a popular dinosaur exhibit that delights younger visitors. The J. Watumull Planetarium offers educational shows about the cosmos, often with a focus on how ancient Hawaiians understood the stars.
Planning Your Visit: Time and Logistics
When it comes to parking, be aware that there is an additional fee, typically around $18, which is not included in the admission price. This can be a point of contention for some visitors, who feel it adds to the overall cost.
It's also worth noting that while the museum is a significant attraction, some locals feel the admission price might be high for the number of truly immersive historical exhibits available, suggesting it might be more geared towards school field trips or a quick introduction for first-time visitors.
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