Capitol Modern (Hawaii State Art Museum) Honolulu
Free museum showcasing vibrant traditional & contemporary art by Hawaiian artists in a historic Honolulu building.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Capitol Modern (Hawaii State Art Museum) Honolulu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Free museum showcasing vibrant traditional & contemporary art by Hawaiian artists in a historic Honolulu building.
"A cool little art spot with impressive local art, definitely worth a look if you're into the local art scene."
Free Admission Gem 🎨
Enjoy impressive local art without spending a dime. A true hidden gem in Honolulu!
Allocate About an Hour 👀
The museum is small but mighty; one hour is usually enough to see everything.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Local Art Galleries
Second Floor
Vibrant paintings, sculptures, and mixed media showcasing Hawaiian artists and themes.
Historic Building
Entire Museum
Explore a beautiful 1928 Spanish Mission Revival building, formerly a YMCA.
Sculpture Garden
Back of the museum
A tranquil outdoor space featuring artistic installations.
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Hours
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission Gem 🎨
Enjoy impressive local art without spending a dime. A true hidden gem in Honolulu!
Allocate About an Hour 👀
The museum is small but mighty; one hour is usually enough to see everything.
Check for Special Events 🎗️
Look out for First Friday events, concerts, and pop-up markets for a unique experience.
Metered Parking Nearby 🚘
Street parking is available but can be limited; consider Saturdays for easier access.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission Gem 🎨
Enjoy impressive local art without spending a dime. A true hidden gem in Honolulu!
Allocate About an Hour 👀
The museum is small but mighty; one hour is usually enough to see everything.
Check for Special Events 🎗️
Look out for First Friday events, concerts, and pop-up markets for a unique experience.
Metered Parking Nearby 🚘
Street parking is available but can be limited; consider Saturdays for easier access.
Support Local Artists 💜
The museum showcases incredible local talent, making it a great way to support the community.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Capitol Modern is praised as a free, hidden gem showcasing vibrant local art in a historic building. Visitors appreciate the quality and diversity of the exhibits, the manageable size, and the friendly staff. Some reviews mention a controversial special exhibit comparing colonization, and parking can be a challenge, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and enjoyable cultural stop.
"Good museum featuring some nice pieces and great Hawaii history….
but I am not unsure why there is a need for a special exhibit comparing Hawaii’s colonization with Palestine. The State of Israel stands as a testament to decolonization and successful land back to the indigenous Jews of the land. That statement does not negate the Palestinian desire for self-determination or advocacy for a two state solution, but it’s distasteful to compare Hawaii’s history to a middle eastern conflict, especially when an organization ruling part of Palestine continues to hold a living American citizen (Eden Alexander), a few murdered Americans, and 55 others from a number of different nationalities."
Dennis Grishin
"Capital Modern is a cool little art spot, it's two floors, but most of the action is on the second floor, where there are two galleries featuring some impressive local art. The pieces are unique, vibrant, and definitely worth a look if you're into the local art scene.
The place is small, so 30 minutes is all you need to enjoy it. It's also free, which is always a nice bonus. There’s no parking at the gallery itself, but you can park across the street in a nearby plaza.
If you’re in the area, it’s worth a quick stop, and I'll definitely check back if they have new exhibits."
Cihan Akdere
"I love this hidden gem. Such a a great visit you won’t waste your time. I loved it so much I went back for my 20th anniversary photo shoot. Small but mighty museum."
Cherry Roscoe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Capitol Modern is located at 250 South Hotel Street in downtown Honolulu. It's accessible by public transport, with the Waikiki Trolley Red Line stopping nearby at the King Kamehameha Statue. 
There is no dedicated parking lot for Capitol Modern. You'll need to find metered street parking nearby, which often has a one-hour limit. Some visitors find parking easier on Saturdays.
The Waikiki Trolley Red Line offers a convenient way to reach Capitol Modern from Waikiki, with a stop near the King Kamehameha Statue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Capitol Modern (Hawaii State Art Museum) is completely free! It's a wonderful opportunity to experience local art without any cost.
Capitol Modern is typically open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. They may have extended evening hours for special events like First Fridays.
No advance booking is required as admission is free. You can typically walk in during their operating hours. However, for special evening events, it's always a good idea to check their schedule.
Yes, Capitol Modern often hosts special events, including free concerts and art markets on First Fridays and Third Fridays. They may also have extended hours for exhibition openings.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Capitol Modern features a diverse collection of traditional and contemporary art by Hawaiian artists. You'll find paintings, sculptures, fiber art, photography, and mixed media exploring themes of Hawaiian heritage, social issues, and nature.
Most visitors find that about an hour is sufficient to explore the museum's exhibits. It's a compact yet impactful space.
Yes, Capitol Modern can be a great stop for families interested in art and culture. The free admission and manageable size make it accessible for children. The vibrant local art can be engaging for younger visitors.
This exhibition at Capitol Modern explores deities in Hawaiian lore through the representations of local artists. It offers a guided tour of these figures in Hawaiian mythology.
While not explicitly mentioned, special events like the First Friday flea market often feature local vendors selling art and crafts, which can serve as unique souvenirs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Capitol Modern itself does not have a restaurant. However, during special evening events like First Fridays, local food vendors are often present, offering a variety of treats.
Being in downtown Honolulu, there are numerous dining options within walking distance of Capitol Modern, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. Explore the surrounding streets for diverse culinary choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside Capitol Modern, but it's always best to check for any specific exhibit restrictions. Flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork.
The vibrant local art pieces on the second floor, the historic architecture of the building, and the sculpture garden in the back offer excellent photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific children's exhibits, the diverse range of art, from colorful paintings to interesting sculptures, can spark curiosity. It's a great opportunity to introduce kids to Hawaiian art and culture in a relaxed, no-pressure environment. Remember to check for any special events that might offer a more interactive experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
This allows you to immerse yourself in the local art scene without spending a penny. It's a perfect addition to an itinerary that might include other free activities like exploring beaches or hiking. For affordable souvenirs, make sure to visit the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet on Wednesdays, Saturdays, or Sundays.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to attend one of their special evening events, such as the First Friday concerts or jazz nights.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Hawaii's Art Scene
Visitors often highlight the impressive local art found on the second floor, where paintings, sculptures, fiber art, and mixed media pieces captivate with their vibrancy and unique narratives. The museum's manageable size means you can absorb a significant amount of art in a relatively short visit, making it an ideal stop for those looking for a meaningful cultural experience without a lengthy time commitment. The sculpture garden in the back also offers a peaceful outdoor space to appreciate art amidst a serene setting.
Beyond the permanent collection, Capitol Modern is known for its engaging special events. The First Friday events, which often include live music, new exhibit openings, and even indoor flea markets with art and vintage clothing, transform the museum into a lively hub.
The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet: A Souvenir Hunter's Paradise
Open on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the swap meet features over 400 local vendors selling everything from Aloha shirts and island-style accessories to handcrafted jewelry, shell necklaces, and even hand-painted ukuleles.
Beyond shopping, the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet offers a vibrant cultural experience. You can enjoy refreshing local treats like iced coconuts and mangoes, and sample various food options from smoothies to tacos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit