Part III: Hawaiʻi Island – Volcanoes, Stars, and Kings

The Big Island is a land of epic scale, where fiery volcanoes create new earth and the clear night skies offer a window into the cosmos. Its museums reflect this grandeur, telling stories of creation, from ancient Polynesian navigators to modern astronomers, and preserving the unique history of its royal residents and agricultural pioneers.

Where Science Meets Culture

ʻImiloa Astronomy Center

In Hilo, under three striking titanium-clad cones representing the island's three great volcanoes—Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai—sits the ʻImiloa Astronomy Center. This world-class facility does something truly special. It bridges the ancient science of Polynesian wayfinding with the cutting-edge astronomy happening atop Maunakea. The experience is centered around a 12,000-square-foot exhibit hall and a state-of-the-art 10k-resolution planetarium. The exhibits, presented in both Hawaiian and English, are highly interactive and explore everything from Hawaiian creation stories to the latest discoveries from deep space. Planetarium shows like "Maunakea: Between Earth and Sky" and "Hawaiian Wayfinders" are immersive, awe-inspiring journeys that are fantastic for all ages.

Pacific Tsunami Museum

Also in Hilo, a city whose history has been profoundly shaped by the power of the ocean, is the Pacific Tsunami Museum. This unique museum provides a sobering and powerful account of the devastating tsunamis of 1946 and 1960 that reshaped Hilo Bay. Through survivor stories and scientific displays, it serves as both a memorial and an educational center, telling a crucial story of resilience and preparedness.

Kona vs. Hilo: Royal Retreats & Missionary Chronicles

The two sides of the Big Island offer contrasting historical experiences, each reflecting the character of its coast.

Huliheʻe Palace (Kona)

On the sunny, vibrant Aliʻi Drive in the heart of Kailua-Kona stands Huliheʻe Palace, the former summer vacation home of Hawaiian royalty. Built in 1838 from lava rock, this gracious home was cherished by generations of aliʻi. Today, managed by the Daughters of Hawaiʻi, it offers an intimate look at the Victorian-era lifestyle of the monarchy, filled with beautiful koa wood furniture, royal portraits, and personal artifacts. It's a charming and accessible piece of royal history. The palace is open Wednesday through Saturday, with adult tickets ranging from $16 to $22.

Lyman Museum and Mission House (Hilo)

On the lush, historic Hilo side, the Lyman Museum offers a deeper, two-part dive into the island's past. The Mission House, built in 1839 for missionaries David and Sarah Lyman, is the oldest wood-frame building on the island and provides a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century life. Adjacent to it, the modern Lyman Museum, a Smithsonian affiliate, houses exceptional galleries on Hawaiian culture, the island's volcanic natural history, and an internationally recognized mineral and gem collection. Reservations are recommended, and note that admission for the museum and the guided Mission House tour are booked separately.

Living History Spotlight: Kona Coffee Living History Farm

For a truly immersive and unique experience, head to the hills above Kealakekua Bay. The Kona Coffee Living History Farm is the only living history museum in the United States dedicated to coffee. Set on the historic D. Uchida Farm, it transports you back to the 1920s-1940s to experience the daily life of Japanese immigrant coffee pioneers.

Costumed interpreters are on-site, demonstrating everything from picking coffee cherries in the orchard to processing the beans on the hoshidana (drying deck) and cooking traditional meals in the farmhouse. You can talk with them, ask questions, and get a real feel for the hard work and family life that built the world-famous Kona coffee industry. It's an unforgettable stop for foodies, history buffs, and anyone looking for an authentic taste of old Hawaiʻi. Plan your visit during the coffee harvest season (typically August to December) for the full experience.

For the ʻOhana (Family) on the Big Island

Hawaiʻi Keiki Museum

A wonderful new museum for families, located conveniently at the Kings' Shops in Waikoloa Beach Resort. This is a hands-on, interactive science museum focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) principles, connecting kids to the science of the island through open-ended play. With over a dozen exhibits and even a mini-golf course, it's a perfect activity for families staying on the Kohala Coast.

Mokupāpapa Discovery Center

Located in Hilo, this center serves as the public gateway to the vast and remote Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. It's very family-friendly, with a 3,500-gallon saltwater aquarium, life-size models of marine life, and interactive exhibits that are a big hit with kids.