This museum offers a fun and fascinating insight into Hawaii’s natural and cultural heritage, with volcanic eruptions, ancient weapons and a planetarium.
The absorbing array of tours, displays and interactive exhibits at the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum superbly showcase Hawaii’s amazing natural and cultural bounty. The combination of old-world architecture and state-of-the-art facilities make this fabulous institution an essential part of any visit to the Pacific archipelago. Situated in Honolulu’s Kahili district, the museum is on a number of public bus routes and there is ample free parking on-site.Whether it’s the wonder of ancient Polynesian navigation techniques or the intricacies of volcanic lava flow, the Bishop Museum will educate and enthral visitors of all ages with fascinating, interactive exhibits. Founded in 1889 by a philanthropist from New York, the museum’s beautiful campus houses the world’s largest collection of Polynesian and Hawaiian artefacts and is the best place to go to discover the customs of the ancient indigenous civilisation.The original Hawaiian Hall’s unique mix of Victorian architecture and carved wooden pillars in the local traditional style reflect the diversity of information stored within. All aspects of the culture, geography and natural history of the Aloha State are exhibited, with a 50-foot skeleton of a sperm whale suspended from the ceiling easily the most eye-catching piece on display. The sheer size of these giants of the deep is captured beautifully, the papier-mâché covering revealing the startling bone-structure beneath. On the short hop across the lawn, you might want to take one of the daily tours of the native garden to learn how Hawaiians use plants for health and wellness.The impressive, five-floor Science Adventure Centre is where people come to learn about the fiery origins of the Hawaiian Islands and is home to some very impressive interactive exhibitions. Navigate the ocean floor and direct lava down a volcano, and don’t forget to catch one of the wonderful eruption displays held throughout the day! Another of the must-see attractions is the planetarium, with daily shows giving you the chance to experience the wonders of the Milky Way from the comfort of your seat.A visit to this gem of a museum will take you 2 to 3 well-spent hours and there is a café to grab a bite on-the-go, as well as a lovely picnic area on the lawn. Closed on Tuesdays and Christmas Day.
