U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii Honolulu
Explore Hawaii's rich military past, from ancient battles to modern conflicts, in this free, cool museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii Honolulu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Hawaii's rich military past, from ancient battles to modern conflicts, in this free, cool museum.
"Outstanding free community resource showing rich military history from ancient times to current."
Free Entry & Donations Welcome
:moneywithwings: It's free! Donations are appreciated to support this community resource.
Cool Escape from Heat
:snowflake: The museum is inside an old battery, so it's nice and cool. Perfect break from the sun!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
WWII & Vietnam Era Exhibits
Main Exhibition Halls
Explore artifacts, weaponry, and stories from pivotal conflicts, including a Vietnam-era helicopter.
Hawaiian Royalty & Pre-Contact History
Upstairs Galleries
Discover the military history of the Hawaiian islands, from ancient battles to the monarchy.
Medal of Honor Recipients Tribute
Dedicated Gallery
A moving tribute to local heroes, including the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and 100th Infantry Battalion.
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Cool Inside, Hot Outside
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry & Donations Welcome
:moneywithwings: It's free! Donations are appreciated to support this community resource.
Cool Escape from Heat
:snowflake: The museum is inside an old battery, so it's nice and cool. Perfect break from the sun!
Allow at Least an Hour
:stopwatch: You'll need about 60-120 minutes to explore all the fascinating exhibits.
Support the Gift Shop
:gift: Browse the gift shop on your way out to find unique souvenirs and support the museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry & Donations Welcome
:moneywithwings: It's free! Donations are appreciated to support this community resource.
Cool Escape from Heat
:snowflake: The museum is inside an old battery, so it's nice and cool. Perfect break from the sun!
Allow at Least an Hour
:stopwatch: You'll need about 60-120 minutes to explore all the fascinating exhibits.
Support the Gift Shop
:gift: Browse the gift shop on your way out to find unique souvenirs and support the museum.
Kid-Friendly Area
:child: Look for the area with WW2 Disney cartoons, a nice touch for younger visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii as an outstanding, free community resource packed with fascinating military history from ancient times to the present. The well-done exhibits, cool interior, and knowledgeable staff are frequently highlighted, making it a highly recommended stop for those interested in Hawaii's military past.
"This is an outstanding free community resource which shows off the rich military history of this area from ancient times all the way until current. This museum has everything you'd ever want to know about warfare on Oahu going back hundreds of years. The exhibits were beautifully done and the staff was outstanding. Please support this place by offering donations or shopping in the gift shop on your way out."
T A
"Great museum with lots of interesting exhibits. If you want to learn about Hawaii’s and the US army’s history on the island this is the place. It’s a fairly large complex in the old battery/fort. Gets a little cold inside. Nice gift shop. Highly recommend if you have some time to kill. And it’s free!"
Adam Litzenberger
"It is a free museum that covers history of American military in Hawaii up to the Vietnam war. It has a Vietnam war era chopper on the roof. The panels have thorough descriptions and everything is laid out well with dimly lit lamps so you feel like you’re inside a bunker. There’s an upstairs room about the army corp of engineers and one for local heroes who were awarded medals. It’s well worth a visit. Spent about an hour inside."
Owen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 2131 Kalia Rd, Waikiki, HI 96815, right on the beach at Fort DeRussy Park. It's easily accessible by public bus, ride-sharing services, or a pleasant walk from most Waikiki hotels. Parking is available nearby, though it can be limited.
Yes, there is parking available near the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii, particularly at Fort DeRussy Beach Park. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! The U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii is situated in Waikiki, making it a convenient walk from many hotels. Enjoy the scenic stroll along the beach to reach your destination.
For convenience and to avoid parking hassles, consider using TheBus (Honolulu's public transportation) or a ride-sharing service. Many visitors also find walking from their Waikiki accommodations to be a pleasant experience.
Yes, TheBus routes frequently service the Waikiki area, with stops close to Fort DeRussy Park where the museum is located. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii is a free community resource! While admission is complimentary, donations are highly encouraged to help maintain the exhibits and support the museum's operations. +1
No, tickets are not required for entry to the Army Museum Waikiki. It's a free museum, making it an accessible historical attraction for everyone. +1
The museum is typically open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most current hours, as they can sometimes vary.
Historically, the museum has been closed on Sundays and Mondays. It's best to confirm the operating days and hours directly with the museum before your visit.
Yes, donations are greatly appreciated! You can support the museum through monetary contributions or by purchasing items from their gift shop.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find extensive exhibits covering Hawaiian military history from pre-contact times to modern conflicts, including World War II, the Vietnam War, and local heroes. Highlights include a Vietnam-era helicopter, artillery pieces, and displays on Hawaiian royalty. +1
Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii. The size of the exhibits and the depth of information can easily fill this time.
Yes, the museum has elements that can engage children, such as a Vietnam-era helicopter, large artillery, and a dedicated area with WW2 Disney cartoons. The historical context can also be educational.
The museum is housed in an old artillery battery, which keeps it remarkably cool inside, offering a welcome escape from the tropical heat outside.
Visitors often rave about the unique displays, including a shotgun with a bayonet, the tribute to Medal of Honor recipients, and the historical context of warfare on Oahu.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii. However, it's always best to check for any specific signage or ask a staff member if you're unsure about photographing certain exhibits.
The Vietnam-era Cobra helicopter on the roof, the large artillery pieces, and the detailed dioramas of historical battles offer great photo opportunities. The exhibits on Hawaiian royalty also provide unique visual content.
While personal photography is usually permitted, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect delicate artifacts. Professional or commercial photography may require special permission.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, as some exhibits are dimly lit to create an atmospheric feel. A versatile lens that can capture both wide shots of displays and details of artifacts would be ideal.
Yes, sharing your photos on social media is generally encouraged, especially for personal use. Tagging the museum can help promote this valuable historical site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical context might be complex, the visual elements and the dedicated children's area make it accessible. Encourage them to look for interesting artifacts or imagine the stories behind the exhibits. The gift shop also offers a chance to find a unique souvenir, and the nearby beach provides an opportunity for playtime after the museum visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a picnic lunch at the adjacent Fort DeRussy Beach Park to keep food costs down. The museum's location in Waikiki also means you can easily walk or take public transport, saving on transportation expenses. It's a fantastic way to spend a few hours learning and exploring without any cost.
🤓 History Buffs
Pay special attention to the tributes to local heroes, particularly the 442nd RCT and 100th Infantry Battalion, and the displays on Hawaiian royalty. The museum's setting within an actual coastal artillery battery adds an authentic layer to the experience. Allow ample time to absorb the rich narratives and explore the extensive collections.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Hawaiian Military History
One of the most striking aspects of the museum is its dedication to honoring local heroes. The tribute to the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and the 100th Infantry Battalion, comprised of Japanese-American soldiers who served with distinction in Europe, is particularly poignant. These exhibits highlight their bravery and the discrimination they faced, offering a powerful lesson in resilience and patriotism. The museum also showcases the contributions of other local individuals who received the Medal of Honor, underscoring the deep connection between Hawaii and military service.
Beyond the specific conflicts, the museum provides context on the strategic importance of Pearl Harbor and Oahu's role in defending the Pacific. The Vietnam-era Cobra helicopter prominently displayed is a popular attraction, offering a tangible connection to more recent military history. The dimly lit halls and detailed descriptions create an atmosphere that feels both educational and deeply respectful, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in military history or the unique heritage of Hawaii.
Beyond the Battlefield: Unexpected Attractions
For those interested in unique military hardware, the museum boasts an impressive collection of artillery pieces and weaponry. Reddit users have humorously noted some of the more unusual items, like a shotgun with an attached bayonet, sparking conversations about the ingenuity and sometimes eccentric nature of military equipment. These quirky finds add a layer of intrigue and conversation starters to the visit, making it more than just a standard historical exhibit.
Furthermore, the museum's location at Fort DeRussy Beach Park offers a beautiful setting. While not part of the museum itself, the proximity to the beach means visitors can easily combine their historical exploration with a relaxing stroll by the ocean. Some local groups even utilize the park's amenities for activities like pickleball, showcasing how historical sites can coexist with modern recreational pursuits.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit