Iolani Palace
Iolani Palace
4.5
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
Closed
About
Iolani Palace, the official residence of Hawaii’s monarchy, is a marvel of opulence, innovation and political intrigue. Meticulously restored to its former grandeur, this National Historic Landmark in downtown Honolulu tells of a time when their Majesties, King Kalakaua, who built the palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, walked its celebrated halls. Today, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular living restorations in all of Polynesia and immerse yourself in Hawaii’s royal heritage. E komo mai! Welcome!
Duration: 1-2 hours
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Address
Neighbourhood: Downtown Honolulu
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See what travellers are saying
- 459chelbe1 contributionAbsolutely amazing!What a beautiful place to learn about the rich and saddening history of Hawaii. I cannot recommend this tour enough. We booked the audio tour and it was so enthralling and beautiful. I’ll definitely be going back and booking some of their other tour options! I highly recommend this tour! This is a must!Visited February 2024Written 15 February 2024
- Jessica S1 contributionIncredible and rich history tourThe palace is beautiful, and the information is incredible. We enjoyed learning so much about the deep history of the Hawaiian monarchy. The staff were friendly and helpful. The audio tour was very interesting and easy to use. I would count this as a must-see on a visit to O'ahu.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 19 February 2024
- taishodoSendai, Japan151 contributionsI learned a lotThis was the only place I had decided to visit on this trip to Hawaii. It was interesting to learn more about Hawaii's modern history, which I didn't understand very well until now. You can register 30 minutes before, and if you make a reservation in advance online, you can enjoy a tour with audio in Japanese. I recommend it. It takes about an hour. From Waikiki, you can get off in front of the State Capitol on the Gratitude Trolley or The Bus 2 and 13. Recently, there are signs on the buses, so it's not a hassle.Visited February 2024Written 19 February 2024
- Jeffrey H1 contributionGreat Self-Guided TourWe elected to do the self guided tour and it was fantastic. The information and production of the recorded tour was much better than I anticipated. It was presented in an interesting manner with music, pictures you could view on your device, and great narration. I liked that while there were other people on the tour you had your own listening device and could go at your own pace. It felt like you were on the tour by yourself. The music and narration added to the dramatic effect of the tour and at times was very emotional. Also, while it was self-guided, there were staff present to assist you and answer questions. Absolutely wonderful experience!Visited February 2024Written 22 February 2024
- Ricki C1 contributionA must see!If you’re interested in the story of how Hawaii came to be as we know it, this tour is for you. It’s informative, but also deeply moving as you learn about the last days of the Hawaiian monarchy. It is well worth a couple of hours of your time!Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 23 February 2024
- fayethechefHonolulu, Hawaii1 contributionPalace tourExcellent well worth the visit! Our docent was so knowledgeable, witty and well versed. I was glad that my friends wanted to go and experience the palace, since it had been 65 years since I last saw it.Visited February 2024Written 23 February 2024
- PrincessAilinneModesto, California1 contributionA must-do for your vacationI had the pleasure of visiting 'Iolani Palace on my most recent trip to Honolulu. As someone who loves history (royal history in particular), it was a fascinating look at a part of Hawaiian history and culture that is not often seen by mainland visitors. I took the docent-led tour, and Cindy was a wonderful guide through the rooms of the palace and the lives of the people who lived there (and, by extension, the Hawaiian people). Truth be told, it was also a sobering look at the monarchy's overthrow and Hawai'i's journey to becoming a United States Territory. For me, this is not a "one and done" - I would gladly tour 'Iolani Palace again on any future trips to O'ahu. Mahalo nui loa (thank you very much) to the wonderful staff. A hui hou (Until we meet again)!Visited February 2024Written 24 February 2024
- Linda H4 contributionsHidden treasureWhat an amazing collection that has been preserved for everyone! Loved the stories and being able to walk around and enjoy. The Queens Quilt is a valuable addition. A must visit whether this is your first visit to Hawaii or your fifth💕Visited February 2024Written 24 February 2024
- Anon8815Trenton, New Jersey780 contributionsEnjoyableOverall enjoyed this visit. I do wish they had more seating available (not everyone can stand for long periods of time). I enjoyed the exhibit discussing the restoration in the basement. Make sure to book tickets in advanced. And even for the audio tour, they expect you to be there early.Visited February 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 24 February 2024
- TM-Texas-AlohaHonolulu, Hawaii1 contributionʻIolani PalaceMost visitors to Hawaiʻi come for the beaches, Pearl Harbor Memorial, and for any number of other reasons. ʻĪolani Palace is one of the most important sites in Hawaiʻi. Visitors to these islands should understand the history of this place when they come to visit. ʻIolani Palace will teach visitors that Hawaiʻi was an independent nation before being taken from her people by the United States. Please come to visit and learn the history of this special ʻāina, this special land.Visited February 2024Written 25 February 2024
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4.5
8,424 reviews
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6,021
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Cynthia W
Kentucky46 contributions
Oct 2024 • Friends
The only royal palace on U.S. soil, you will find it the most beautiful place on the island. Kept in pristine condition, the artifacts include his majesty’s uniforms, and personal possessions. View the quilt Queen Lili’uokalani created by hand during her incarceration and learn of the historic overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. There are so many unique qualities to the palace, including electricity and plumbing. You will walk into the throne room, see beautiful, etched glass, door hinges and hand carved koa wood staircases. Kaulana was our tour guide, and his Hawaiian language was phenomenal as well was his Hawaiian history and accuracy. He answered all our questions about the people of the period, the business of politics in Hawai’i, and how the overthrow became a reality. As a woman born and raised here before we became a state, I took pride seeing the King’s hat sitting on his desk in his office. The words “Territory of Hawaii” on my birth certificate, meant something at that moment. I highly recommend this private tour where reservations are needed as there are only six spots available per tour. Receive a special souvenir, unique to the tour at the end of your visit.
Written 20 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Traci K
Orange County, CA4 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
My husband and I loved our docent-led tour of the Iolani Palace because we both love learning about history, politics, art, etc. Wherever we travel, we find it important to learn about and respect the story of the land, and this intention is especially important when visiting Hawaii, a kingdom that was forcibly annexed against the indigenous government's will, in large part due to what we would today consider to be corporate greed. We are all so lucky to be able to travel here.
But do not worry that this tour will be depressing or make you feel bad. While there are tragic elements to the story, it is overall uplifting! You learn about the hard work Hawaiians have done to restore this symbol of their history along with the contributions of helpful people from around the world, many of them tourists. If anything, it will make you feel good because your visit supports these efforts.
Miscellaneous tips: We recommend this tour if you are the kind of traveler who likes museums and can walk and stand comfortably (there is an elevator for those who have difficulty climbing stairs) for at least an hour. The website recommends two hours to enjoy the tour and, after the tour, the gallery of artifacts. But if you are the type of museum-goer who likes to look at and read everything, I actually recommend paying for four hours of parking. My husband and I ran out of time to look in each room; and we had to park across the street, so I didn't think it was worth it to return, add more money to our meter, and then walk back.
Give yourself at least 20 minutes to find parking and walk to the palace, because it was difficult to navigate all the one-way streets. Once you reach the palace grounds, you check in for the tour at the "barracks," which was the separate structure that looks like a chess rook; this was not intuitive from the confirmation email, nor were there any written signs.
But do not worry that this tour will be depressing or make you feel bad. While there are tragic elements to the story, it is overall uplifting! You learn about the hard work Hawaiians have done to restore this symbol of their history along with the contributions of helpful people from around the world, many of them tourists. If anything, it will make you feel good because your visit supports these efforts.
Miscellaneous tips: We recommend this tour if you are the kind of traveler who likes museums and can walk and stand comfortably (there is an elevator for those who have difficulty climbing stairs) for at least an hour. The website recommends two hours to enjoy the tour and, after the tour, the gallery of artifacts. But if you are the type of museum-goer who likes to look at and read everything, I actually recommend paying for four hours of parking. My husband and I ran out of time to look in each room; and we had to park across the street, so I didn't think it was worth it to return, add more money to our meter, and then walk back.
Give yourself at least 20 minutes to find parking and walk to the palace, because it was difficult to navigate all the one-way streets. Once you reach the palace grounds, you check in for the tour at the "barracks," which was the separate structure that looks like a chess rook; this was not intuitive from the confirmation email, nor were there any written signs.
Written 24 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BrakiWorldTraveler
Belgrade, Serbia20,037 contributions
May 2024 • Family
Having seen over 100 palaces throughout Europe, Middle East and Asia I was really hesitating if to go into this one. Specially at a steep entry fee of around 30$ pp (27$ entry + parking).
However, the fact it's the only palace in entire Pacific region and in all US prevailed and I've visited on early Saturday morning.
The tour lasts around an hour exploring two floors, audio guide included.
It tells the whole history of the Kingdom, but with emphasis on the last ruler King Kalakaua who built the Palace in 1882 implementing new inventions of the era like running water and electricity, he got acquainted with during his travels to Europe and implemented them even before the White House.
The palace is also the place where he was overthrown by white western strong financial clan (Hawaii League), who regarded him as an enemy for their business goals and who wanted to annex Hawaii into US. In order to prevent blood spill Kalakaua ordered his Royal guard to back off and signed a new Constitution in which he actually disarmed himself from legislative and military power.
Touring the Palace you're about to see the Grand staircase leading up to King and Queen's bedrooms, dressing and play rooms, while on the ground floor are reception halls, dining room along with kitchen.
By no means do not expect opulence of European palaces, but it was still nice and educative to see their influence mixed with local culture in a palace on the other end of the world.
However, the fact it's the only palace in entire Pacific region and in all US prevailed and I've visited on early Saturday morning.
The tour lasts around an hour exploring two floors, audio guide included.
It tells the whole history of the Kingdom, but with emphasis on the last ruler King Kalakaua who built the Palace in 1882 implementing new inventions of the era like running water and electricity, he got acquainted with during his travels to Europe and implemented them even before the White House.
The palace is also the place where he was overthrown by white western strong financial clan (Hawaii League), who regarded him as an enemy for their business goals and who wanted to annex Hawaii into US. In order to prevent blood spill Kalakaua ordered his Royal guard to back off and signed a new Constitution in which he actually disarmed himself from legislative and military power.
Touring the Palace you're about to see the Grand staircase leading up to King and Queen's bedrooms, dressing and play rooms, while on the ground floor are reception halls, dining room along with kitchen.
By no means do not expect opulence of European palaces, but it was still nice and educative to see their influence mixed with local culture in a palace on the other end of the world.
Written 9 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Oleksandr P
Forest Hills, NY10 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
This is the place to experience the Hawaiian state history in full! Located in Honolulu Downtown, close to the other historical and cultural attractions, the Iolani Palace is a perfect place to start exploring the Hawaiian capital. The entry fee is a bit high, but this is the only royal palace in the U.S., so it's worth it. The place was not crowded during our visit in August 2024 and we didn't have any issue with online booking system. You would need a few hours to see the interior of the palace (guided tours only), the museum in the basement and a gift shop offering some unique items... Highly recommended!
Written 18 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Divya R
4 contributions
Oct 2024 • Family
For the ticket price ($26) this place is insanely underwhelming.
Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, holds undeniable historical significance, but the experience itself leaves much to be desired—especially for the price.
The grandeur of the building itself is impressive from the outside, but inside, the sense of historical immersion falls flat. With little in the way of interactive displays or detailed storytelling, it’s hard to shake the feeling that you're paying a premium for a underwhelming experience.
Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, holds undeniable historical significance, but the experience itself leaves much to be desired—especially for the price.
The grandeur of the building itself is impressive from the outside, but inside, the sense of historical immersion falls flat. With little in the way of interactive displays or detailed storytelling, it’s hard to shake the feeling that you're paying a premium for a underwhelming experience.
Written 6 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kungaloosh!
United Kingdom253 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
The restoration of this palace is fantastic. This is a fascinating insight to the story of Hawaii, its monarchy and how it was overthrown, the tour features an audio guide which brings the history to life in a human way.
Be prepared to leave all drinks at the door (including water) on the way in and you collect them when you leave.
The palace is small and compact and the audio guide controls the length of the tour.
You will need to book an entry time when you buy your tickets, new tours start every 15-30 mins.
I think young kids wouldn’t enjoy this attraction ( it seems really boring) but older kids would could really learn something here.
As another reviewer says, remember to head into the basement exhibits after the tour ends so see more cool stuff.
Be prepared to leave all drinks at the door (including water) on the way in and you collect them when you leave.
The palace is small and compact and the audio guide controls the length of the tour.
You will need to book an entry time when you buy your tickets, new tours start every 15-30 mins.
I think young kids wouldn’t enjoy this attraction ( it seems really boring) but older kids would could really learn something here.
As another reviewer says, remember to head into the basement exhibits after the tour ends so see more cool stuff.
Written 10 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nikki W
122 contributions
Apr 2024 • Solo
This is a very beautiful and unique place to visit, as I've never seen a royal palace before. For me, it was a more enriching experience to walk through the rooms versus a typical museum. The audio tour was very informative.
Tip: reserve your ticket in advance for an audio or docent-led tour; not sure if they honor walk-ins or even have that option.
Tip: reserve your ticket in advance for an audio or docent-led tour; not sure if they honor walk-ins or even have that option.
Written 21 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
M&JR
Fort Worth, TX1,219 contributions
Feb 2025 • Couples
Excellent experience and knowledge about Hawai’i kings, queens and their kingdom. The “Palace” has been meticulously restored and will be enjoyed for generations. We took the audio tour which lasts 1-2 hours depending if you want to listen to a section again. Exceptionally easy to get to using The Bus. Highly recommend making reservations on line for various times and dates which was very easy. Don’t forget the ground level or basement area where other exhibits and the restrooms are located.
Written 6 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Valarn
Wellington, New Zealand2 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
My husband and I visited this iconic Honolulu landmark and thoroughly enjoyed our guide's commentary on the Hawaiian royal family. You are guided throughout the various rooms seeing portraits, beautiful collections, and how the families over the generations lived. Took over an hour for the main part and extra time in the gallery area (that was also interesting!). Make sure you reserve your tickets at their ticket office (Barracks Building (Richards St Entrance) or on their website as they don't take walk-ins. Good gift shop located in the Barracks building and in the palace gallery too. Open Tues-Sats. Well worth a visit.
Written 19 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aaron S
64 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
An Enchanting Evening at Iolani Palace
Attending the evening tour of Iolani Palace for the Queen’s Birthday celebration was an unforgettable experience. The palace itself is magnificent, beautifully lit in the evening, and the guided tour brought its rich history to life.
The celebration added a special touch, with thoughtful details honoring the Queen’s legacy. From the cultural performances to the historical anecdotes shared by the guides, everything was incredibly well done. It felt like stepping back in time while being part of a meaningful tribute.
The staff was welcoming and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere was both festive and reverent. If you’re in Honolulu and have the chance to attend an event like this, I highly recommend it. It’s a unique way to connect with Hawaii’s royal heritage and enjoy an evening filled with history and culture. A true 5-star experience!
Attending the evening tour of Iolani Palace for the Queen’s Birthday celebration was an unforgettable experience. The palace itself is magnificent, beautifully lit in the evening, and the guided tour brought its rich history to life.
The celebration added a special touch, with thoughtful details honoring the Queen’s legacy. From the cultural performances to the historical anecdotes shared by the guides, everything was incredibly well done. It felt like stepping back in time while being part of a meaningful tribute.
The staff was welcoming and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere was both festive and reverent. If you’re in Honolulu and have the chance to attend an event like this, I highly recommend it. It’s a unique way to connect with Hawaii’s royal heritage and enjoy an evening filled with history and culture. A true 5-star experience!
Written 30 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Visiting Hawaii in October. I’ve booked my ticket for a tour of the Palace. I know I need to put my bag into a locker but can’t the info where these lockers are exactly. Any help to find these lockers would be appreciated.
Written 18 September 2024
Don’t know if there is a locker, but we stored a stroller and several backpacks in their office at the palace (not the barracks where you pick up your ticket) while we went on the tour.
Written 21 September 2024
We enjoyed our visit in March. I am now working on scrapbooking our trip pictures. In the throne room there is something stands between the 2 thrones - it is gold and has a round ball at the top. Can you remind me what it is called? Thank you!
Written 1 May 2022
It is called a puloulou, or “kapu stick” … the gold sphere on top of the ivory tusk from a narwhal whale between the thrones is said to be a gift from King Kalakaua’s 1883 coronation.
Written 4 May 2022
Are there Restaurants near the palace?
Written 21 August 2021
Across the street from the IOLANI Barracks in Richard’s Street is the YWCA Laniakea. Inside is a restaurant called Cafe Julia. There are a multitude of small restaurants one to two blocks West going towards Chinatown. A favorite of mine is Murphy’s Bar and Grill on Merchant street. Very popular and good food.
Written 7 May 2022
Bonjour,
Pouvez vous me dire ou trouver cet audio guide ainsi que son tarif? Nous devons aller à Honolulu en début d'année prochaine.
Written 22 April 2021
The Iolani Palace website has information about self-guided audio tours. The price is included in the cost of the admission ticket.
Written 19 September 2024
Yes, you can use credit cards to pay for the entrance fee.
Written 1 February 2020
Are there Lockers on site for back packs? If so do they take Mastercard or cash?
Written 31 January 2020

A Tripadvisor member
Hi there if you are doing the tour the store your belongings.
Written 1 February 2020
Yes, it has an elevator for disabled persons. Just let the workers know and they will make sure you are taken cared of.
Written 25 March 2020
I am interested in visiting this attraction, but is it appropriate for small children (ages 7 & 5)? Are there any activities for them to participate in if we do a self-guided tour? Thanks!
Written 7 January 2020
The kids might be a little too young to understand everything and what the palace represents. There are a lot of nice things for them to look at that holds history. Don't know if they would really get anything out of the visit but I'm sure you and your husband would.
Written 8 January 2020
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