Bishop Museum
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🏛️ Bishop Museum - The Perfect Gateway to Hawaiian Culture
Monika GreenMonika Green
281
I just wanted to take a moment to share some exciting news with you. Have you ever heard of Honolulu's Bishop Museum? It is an extraordinary institution dedicated to studying and preserving the history of Hawaiʻi and the Pacific. The Bishop Museum is truly a marvel, representing the largest museum in Hawaiʻi solely focused on showcasing and understanding the rich culture and heritage of the Polynesian peoples. This remarkable establishment offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to dive deep into the fascinating world of Polynesian culture. Not only does the museum house an extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays, but it also provides a platform for immersive experiences that allow you to truly embrace and appreciate the unique traditions and customs of the Polynesian people. From engaging educational workshops to captivating performances and demonstrations, the Bishop Museum caters to individuals of all ages and interests. I had the privilege of visiting the museum recently, and I must say, it was an enriching and enlightening experience. I was captivated by the sheer depth of history and heritage that is beautifully showcased within its walls. The museum's well-curated exhibits and knowledgeable staff are undoubtedly invaluable resources for anyone eager to learn more about the fascinating history of Hawaiʻi and the Pacific. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply seeking a memorable and educational outing, a visit to the Bishop Museum is absolutely worth your time. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of Polynesian culture, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the legacy of the Hawaiian islands and the wider Pacific region. I highly recommend making time to explore this magnificent institution the next time you find yourself in Hawaiʻi. I assure you, the experience will be both educational and enjoyable, leaving you with lasting memories and a newfound understanding of the vibrant Polynesian heritage. Thank you for your attention, and I hope you have the chance to visit the Bishop Museum soon.
Robert BowmanRobert Bowman
00
I was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable this visit was. The museum itself had plenty to see, and my husband still can't stop talking about how beautiful the building's interior was. The displays were very professionally done, some with videos as well. I was so eager to see what was in the other buildings that I just briefly did the first floor. When I came back to see the others, I had a very limited amount of time. The other buildings were enjoyable as well, geared more toward the younger set (I had three teenagers with me, so I'm not sure how long the other two buildings would entertain little ones, but there was definitely something for everyone. As the first building was mainly Hawaiian history, the second was Hawaiian wildlife and how the islands were formed and became what they were today. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The amount of displays were not overwhelming, and there were fun hands-on things like pushing a button to make the giant volcano bubble and pushing a button to make wax ooze up and form an island. I REALLY enjoyed a hands-on picture board that let you see specific animals and plants and how they got to the islands and the effect they've had. The third building I went to had a small amount of activities, mostly for children under ten. We did enjoy seeing how fast we could throw a ball. We also paid the small additional fee to see the planetarium show. The presenter was engaging and the movie enjoyable. All employees were exceptionally helpful and kind. I'd go back again. I was able to purchase a Groupon the day before. We went on a Monday. Crowds were minimal and only a handful of kids. UPDATE- I spoke with my kids and husband. They insist it deserves five stars. I wavered between four and five because I thought the building with young kid dress-ups, etc. felt incomplete. I'm a preschool teacher and would not take my preschool here because I feel like there wasn't enough to keep 3-5 year olds entertained for a few hours.
Susan EckSusan Eck
00
A lot of great information here, but my family and I all left feeling a little like we still didn’t understand the culture fully. We came to try to learn more about Hawaiian culture and Polynesia. However the information was sort of just jumbled everywhere. It would be better if there was a chain of events lined up for you. Organization is a huge part of teaching. They have the artifacts grouped together, but the timeline is missing. The artifacts they have here are priceless and extremely beautiful! But outsiders with no background of the history will have a hard time grasping the basic concepts. It seems like you almost need a little bit of prior knowledge before coming here to really appreciate everything they have to offer. If the museum could incorporate a timeline somewhere explaining the exact history of Polynesia and the islands, that would be helpful to everyone! Dumb it down for us so that we can all advocate for the culture and people of Hawaii 🌺🤙🏽 Some of us tourists want to appreciate the history and traditions! We aren’t all there for Waikiki beach 😉😁 My five year old daughter did really enjoy the kids science building across the campus. The slide for the volcano is hardly a slide though, the kids can’t even slide down it because it’s not inclined enough😅 could use a revamp! We did like the glow in the dark tunnel a lot though! But overall enjoyed our time there. The price was a little steep for three adults and a child, but I’m hoping that the museum will improve with feedback like ours🤞🏽 Would love to come back and learn more at some point!
Nicole MacKinnonNicole MacKinnon
180
My review is based off being to other places in the US. -Pros: visiting the Hawaiian section of the campus is amazing. So many historical things to read about and veiw. They have whale bones, huts, artifacts, ways of travel on sea, among other things in the three story building. The next section is, as of right now, the dinosaur exhibit. Very well put together and great for all ages. Very interactive for babies but full of knowledge for older children and adults. The planetarium has a nice little show and for anyone who loves space, it's average. The kids loved it. The science building has lots of activities for the children. A volcano, underground sea, and wind turbine. There is a huge grass area to run and eat picnics. The cafe has average priced food and is actually pretty good. I suggest the Mac salad, rice, and meat entree. -Cons: it's pricey. Look up coupons, group deals. You also have to pay $5 for parking. Signs. I couldn't figure out how to get to the cafe. The signs need to change. Or maybe a few added. Hawaiian museum. Not for children. Older children yes, but it is very quiet and there aren't activities for them to do. I would say 6 and above. Science building. I think half of the things were broken. And the tree house is a joke. The kids had fun but needs improvement. The dino exhibit is $4 extra. If you go on the weekend, it's packed. Tips: during "rush" hour, bring your own food, buy tickets online, and park a few blocks away. You can take a stroller but when it's busy it's a hassle. Positive note: Great way to learn about Hawaiian history.
Muriah JohnsMuriah Johns
20
A beautiful museum with a little of everything about the Hawaiian culture, royal family history, political and religious background. Saturday Nov 6, 2021 - timed entry/ reservation needed (website registration for reservation & ticket purchase). I had purchased my tickets via Groupon before I learned about the timed entry policy. I would recommend purchasing via the website with a time slot if you have kids or need to be guaranteed entry that day and do not want to wait.. There's a new (special) dinosaur exhibit that has to an extra cost to attend. I arrived before 10 am and entered the gift shop (after ID and Vaccination card check). Front counter took my ticket numbers and allowed us entry (n number of people allowed every specific period of time). Parking is $5 for your stay in the lot. If you don't purchase your car pass at the machine, you can pay at the counter when you are allowed to enter. Security was roaming in a golf cart. Two adults spent about 3 hours touring the main building and the hands-on center across the lawn. I especially enjoyed learning about Hawaiian history and royal family. Please wear shoes that you can stand and walk in for 2 to 3 hours. You can bring snacks to eat outside on the benches, but there is a small cafe on-site. Also, restrooms are on the ground floor of the main building. There is a water bottle refill fountain in the same hallway.
Ali CAli C
10
Nearby Attractions Of Bishop Museum
Kamehameha Shopping Center
Honolulu Ford
MiO’s Designs Barbershop
Palama on King
Paradise Hawaii Tours - Honolulu Airport Private Transfer
H Mart Kalihi
Hawaii Kotohira Jinsha - Hawaii Dazaifu Tenmangu
Kalākaua District Park
Loess Spa
Fantastic Sams Cut & Color
Kamehameha Shopping Center
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Honolulu Ford
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MiO’s Designs Barbershop
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Palama on King
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Nearby Restaurants Of Bishop Museum
Helena's Hawaiian Food
Ray's Cafe
Mexico Restaurant
Diner's Upscale Hawaii
Zippy's Kalihi
Palace Saimin
Richie's Drive Inn
Guieb Cafe
Teishoku Restaurant
Kam Bowl Restaurant
Helena's Hawaiian Food
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(1.5K)Click for details
Ray's Cafe
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(431)Click for details
Mexico Restaurant
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Diner's Upscale Hawaii
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Map
Phone
(808) 847-3511
Call
Website
bishopmuseum.org
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.6
(2.2K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
accessibility
Description
The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, designated the Hawaiʻi State Museum of Natural and Cultural History, is a museum of history and science in the historic Kalihi district of Honolulu on the Hawaiian island of Oʻahu.
attractions: Kamehameha Shopping Center, Honolulu Ford, MiO’s Designs Barbershop, Palama on King, Paradise Hawaii Tours - Honolulu Airport Private Transfer, H Mart Kalihi, Hawaii Kotohira Jinsha - Hawaii Dazaifu Tenmangu, Kalākaua District Park, Loess Spa, Fantastic Sams Cut & Color, restaurants: Helena's Hawaiian Food, Ray's Cafe, Mexico Restaurant, Diner's Upscale Hawaii, Zippy's Kalihi, Palace Saimin, Richie's Drive Inn, Guieb Cafe, Teishoku Restaurant, Kam Bowl Restaurant
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