Bishop Museum image

Bishop Museum

Tourist attraction Museum

A planetarium, & a museum showcasing exhibits on Hawaiian & other Pacific Island cultures. People often mention museum, history, culture, Hawaiian, Hawaii, building, science, learn, artifacts, exhibits,


Address

1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817

Website

www.bishopmuseum.org

Contact

(808) 847-3511

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (4.2K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Monday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: museum (62) history (42) culture (24) Hawaiian (24) Hawaii (21) building (20) science (19) learn (17) artifacts (17) exhibits (15)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Nicole M. 1 year ago on Google
    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!
    18 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ludachris T. 7 months ago on Google • 136 reviews
    This museum was a hidden gem. On our last day in Oahu we were looking for something indoors to do while we waited to catch our late flight out, this was the perfect spot to spend our last hours in Hawaii. There are a lot of hands on interactive displays for adults and children alike. There is a historical hall, science center, planetarium and outdoor exhibit. We enjoyed all of the galleries and learned a lot while having fun. At first glance it looks like a tiny place but don’t be fooled. There is a lot to see an do. Check this place out you will not regret it.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Arthur G. 2 months ago on Google • 709 reviews New
    If you are interested in the history of Hawaii and how it developed as a country and then became our 50th State you will love touring the museum. They have great children’s activities, a beautiful gift shop as well as a wonderful restaurant.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael A. 1 year ago on Google
    Definitely awesome and worth going to if you're visiting. It's more than just Hawaiian culture but does dive into the history Hawaii and how it became the colony and then state. Some very beautiful shots of pre colonization Waikiki that makes you wonder how beautiful it was before the natural habitat was ruined. We went early and had no wait. Our hotel got us free admission, which was very cool
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrew Seelall (. 2 years ago on Google
    With so much information, you can earn your Bachelor's degree in Polynesian culture here! The design and layout makes you want to check everything. Come here early to beat the crowd! Amazing artwork and history is packed into one building. The science hall is more for kids and also the dinosaur exhibit. Don't forget to set an alarm to see a show at the planetarium (lasts ~40 mins).
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Christopher B. 8 months ago on Google
    If you're looking to learn about the culture and history of Hawaii, this is the perfect museum to visit. There was so much to see. I recommend making this a two day event. Unfortunately, the planetarium was closed. However, everything else was open. I'm impressed by the cleanliness of the facilities and the extremely friendly staff. I really enjoyed every aspect of the Bishop museum. If you are military or local you can receive a discount on your ticket. All others pay the full price of $28.95. Additionally, parking inside the fenced area is $5.00. I hope your experience will be as great as mine! Enjoy!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jesus C. 2 years ago on Google
    A great museum to go and explore for the day. There are actually three different exhibits in different buildings. Keep that in mind if you want to see everything. There is the Hawaiian history in the main building which is some of the most beautiful architecture you will ever see. A dinosaur exhibit next door. And lastly a science exhibit across the court yard. Would recommend for all ages! Prices aren't bad for what you get and you learn alot.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shelia J. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a must see. I could have spent at least 3-4 hours here. The museum itself is an architectural beauty. Then you have all the cultural knowledge inside to learn about which is truly amazing. I loved the interactive aspects of the museum but like I said above the knowledge that you learn about the native Hawaiians and culture. From how they lived and thrived to know is wonderful. This is a must do when you come to the island. I think it will give any visitors an appreciation for the land and people and what they are fighting to protect and preserve.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 KG Food &. 1 year ago on Google
    Not any ordinary museum, Bishop Museum is jam packed with not only a deep cultural history of Hawaii but of nature and science. The first exhibit explores the history and roots of the islands and how everything came to be today. The other exhibits explore the explanations of the plants, wildlife, and even has a giant volcano you can explore! Oh not to mention the surfing game you can try out yourself. Fun and educational, perfect for all ages!
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nicholas M. 2 years ago on Google
    this museum is great and has so much to offer. i really appreciated the history of the royal family of hawaii. Also, Ms. Helene, a docent at the museum, gave me a wonderful introduction to the museum. and finally, they have a dinosaur exhibit for kids.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Leno 8 months ago on Google
    The museum is a little too expensive but it's an outstanding museum with a lot of artifacts from remote times in the Hawaiian islands. It has a big area with the historical artifacts and 2 other buildings with interactive experiences mostly catered for children. My only criticism is that the part where the history of the islands is told is kind of relegated to a small area in the third floor, and it could have taken a whole floor if it had been set up in a more organized and logical manner.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J S. 2 months ago on Google • 152 reviews New
    There are very few museums that I've visited that are so intimate and beautifully crafted, a work of art in and of itself. Bishop Museum shows the love (aloha!) that went into its conception and development over the decades. The original building was built from the (now rare) kōa tree and many of the displays have been part of the collection for well over 100 years. This is a great stop if you want to jump in and learn about Hawaiian culture and arts, most of which are housed in gorgeous handmade wood cases. The front desk says it takes 2-3 hours to get through the museum, but we like to linger and could have easily spent 3+ hours. The gift shop is lovely, with price ranges for all levels, though it tends toward the higher end--typical for a museum gift shop. Best for teens and adults. Children could be very disruptive in the original museum portion.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Wendy “Ohana Images by W. 5 months ago on Google • 199 reviews
    Always a fun educational experience. Had to show our keikis about their culture. There are so many artifacts and old photos in Hawaiian Hall. The other exhibit was about light and had a cute laser display. It's definitely worth a visit for tourists and locals. They do have specials on groupon sometimes. And Kama'aina and military get discounted admission.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Iva R. 1 year ago on Google
    The museum is amazing and have way more to see than I expected. We had just an afternoon to check the museum but it wasn't enough to see much of what they had. You'll definitely need more than an afternoon and include some small breaks. There was a lot of standing to see everything so including some short sitting breaks help a lot. You can buy the tickets on the website. We couldn't get the ticket to see the navigation exhibition, it was full sadly. The museum is a bit far away from Waikiki and it took a while to get there. We got there by the public bus and it took a long time. I wish there was better connection to see the museum and more information promoting the museum. I would have loved to finish my visit virtually if possible.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris L. 1 year ago on Google
    We had a wonderful visit to the museum and science center across the lawn. Grandpa remembered coming here when he was in the 6th grade, which was sometime around 70 years ago, and he insisted that we check it out and we are so glad that we did! The grass hut that is on the main level of the museum is the same (though restored) one that Grandpa saw all those decades ago. Very interesting history of the Hawaiian Islands and greater Polynesian area and a fun interactive science center for all to enjoy!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ronald F. 10 months ago on Google
    This place is a phenomenal place to witness Hawaiian history. Beautiful museum and the artifacts are amazing. History should be shared and understanding the journey of the Hawaiian royalty and the kingdom is a must see museum. It’s at least 2-3 hours at your own pace and the cost is nominal.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Philippe G. 2 months ago on Google • 105 reviews New
    Exceptional collection as an anthropology museum for Hawaii. You learn about all their historical crafts (making mats, baskets, carving woods and gourds...), agriculture, games, religion... There is also a sizeable collection about the arts in Oceania (Maori...). Beautiful main building, takes about 90 - 120 mins to see these two collections. Then there are more buildings like the planetarium. It closes at 5 so plan accordingly.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Robert L. 2 months ago on Google • 99 reviews New
    A great place to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii. The main mansion has several exhibitions which covers a great range of topics such as modern histories, culture, and religion of Hawaii. I recommend allocate a few hours as there are so many things to see and learn (we couldn’t see everything in ~1.5 hours and they close at 5). There’s also another building for special exhibitions, a native Hawaii plant garden, and a building for Hawaiian science. You do have to pay for parking though. You can purchase tickets onsite.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrew L. 2 years ago on Google
    Very cool museum. My favorite part was learning about the royal Kamehameha lineage. The science museum was super fun and interactive too. Great place to go in a rainy day. Book online and use code ONLINE for a couple bucks off your entry.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ondirae R. 2 years ago on Google
    Went to see the dinosaur exhibit! It was dope, super entertaining for children. There's a ton of stuff to see and a lot of information and activities. Plus. The dinosaurs look great! Come early though because the line to get in is slow and long. Parking is $5 and in addition to purchasing entrance to the museum, there's an additional $4.95 for the dinosaurs. Must be fully vaxxed.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ann S. 2 years ago on Google
    This museum has a lot to offer. We learned a lot of things we didn't know! If you want to absorb all there is to offer, you will need the full day. The contemporary graffiti exhibit was amazing! When we were there in August 2021 they had staff cleaning even during operating hours and sold a limited number of tickets each day. You will need to schedule and buy in advance.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Darryl M. 2 months ago on Google • 153 reviews New
    Beautiful old well constructed building. Fascinating craftsmanship from the stone work to the interior woodwork. Very detailed descriptions, artifacts, and displays of Hawaiian and Polynesian culture and history.

  • 4/5 Sherrie B. 4 months ago on Google • 53 reviews
    Very informative and the layout was amazing. The Museum by itself was very beautiful. I didn't give it 5 stars because the Planetarium was not available and the landscaping grounds were unkempt and mostly blocked off.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marabeth M. 10 months ago on Google
    This museum was a wonderful experience! There are children's exhibits, natural history exhibits, a planetarium, and several cultural history sections that fill 3 floors of an ornate and beautiful building. I saw the Wayfinder planetarium show. We spent about 5 hours at the museum today and really enjoyed ourselves. Thank you!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Joe G. 7 months ago on Google
    Pretty nice museum - learned a ton about Hawaii’s history and culture. Not overly long, the main mansion was the best exhibit. You also have access to the science portion but it was being maintained when I was there - it’s more geared towards kids. Did this with the Gocity pass so it was worth it. Probably not worth it just with the single ticket for me.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Calvin S. 8 months ago on Google
    Great place for kids of all ages (I'm over 60). History of Hawaii, science, volcanos, and fun activities like a baseball pitching speed radar gun, bugs vs. plants video games, and tons more interactive and fun activities. Oh, and miniature golf. And Planetarium. Use code ONLINE for $2 off on tickets purchased online.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Laura G. 9 months ago on Google
    Best museum with something for all ages. Plenty of hands-on exhibits for the youngsters and lots of great Hawaiian history. We stopped by on the way to the airport to waste some time. The cafe was good too. We saw the show about stars at the planetarium. Very informative!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Noah 1 year ago on Google
    A really lovely museum that’s fairly modern given the area. It’s got a ton of Hawaiian history packed into a relatively small space, and adjoins other exhibit halls meant for specific exhibitions and a science center for kids. The planetarium is small and bland, not required to fully enjoy the place. The main museum hall is where you want to be and it reminded me of some museums in Oxford, UK.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zachary S. 1 year ago on Google
    I received my undergrad and graduate degrees from Hawaiian colleges. The overall collections of cultural importance, Hawaiian history, and animal exposure is impressive. There is so much to see and learn about the history of the Islands. The exhibits tie directly into college level education of Hawaiian studies. There is a good amount of walking so be prepared. A must see if visiting!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eugene S. 2 years ago on Google
    Great collection of Polynesian artifacts mostly dating back to the 18th century. Some of the interactive and hands on exhibits are still not available though. Crowds are limited so be sure to book at least a couple days before your visit. However if you get there a little earlier or decide to stay longer than your reserved time, they seem to be okay with it. It takes at least a couple hours to see and appreciate all the exhibits. I went there on a weekday when it was not too busy.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jose De H. 2 years ago on Google
    It was my first time visiting the island of Oahu and I am so glad I visited the Bishop Museum. This place is top notch! The history, and the way it's presented makes for a interactive, interesting experience. I learned to much and felt a connection to it. I will surely be visiting again the next time I go to Oahu.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andy H. 2 years ago on Google
    Great museum and would highly recommend to everyone visiting Honolulu. This was recommended to us by a friend as somehow most guides I've read online didn't even mention this museum. Turns out to be one of the highlight of our visit to Oahu island. Museum has tons of Hawaiian and other Pacific islands historical pieces, artifacts, stories, etc. The main hall of the museum is breathtaking. It's very clean and very well maintained.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 The Travelling Crone Curiosity Shop, L. 5 months ago on Google • 55 reviews
    I love History and if you are interested in the Hawaiian history, heritage/lineage of the Past Kings and Queens, it is a wonderful source of information and an enjoyable walk through the artifacts. There are 3 buildings we walked through. The Main Bishop Museum bldg, houses the Kings and Queens, along with the fisherman, lifestyle, and even surfing. Then there is a "Light" building, which I think has a Planetarium, and the last is the Science building. If you are local, be sure to check out the Kama'aina rate, which is $14.95.

  • 5/5 Tami B. 1 month ago on Google • 45 reviews New
    Wonderful Museum. I really enjoyed my visit. Learned quite a lot about the history of Hawaii and the Polynesian people.

  • 5/5 Zaara K. 3 months ago on Google New
    Awesome place. But you need a full day designated to it if you want to see all the exhibits. Beautiful centers and tours are carried out every few hours.

  • 5/5 Deborah B. 3 months ago on Google New
    My wife and I visited this beautiful museum. This museum has lots of information on the history of Hawaii. It was very informative. There are lots of beautiful artifacts on display.

  • 5/5 Law C. 11 months ago on Google
    A Honolulu gem! Everything about the Bishop Museum is worthwhile from its architectural beauty to its rich history on display to the educational fun it allows for children. As a senior, I appreciated the priceless Hawaiian artifacts and history the most, but it was also fun watching children enjoy things such as the slide in the aluminum volcano and the fluorescent hallway of simulated aquatic plants. Definitely a must see in Oahu.

  • 4/5 Bobby R. 7 months ago on Google
    I’m not very big on museums, but my wife loves them. I found this one to be great. If you want to learn about the culture, this is a must see. The building and artifacts are pretty amazing.

  • 5/5 Chandreyee M. 3 months ago on Google • 13 reviews New
    Great museum and a wonderful place to learn about the culture of Hawaii and other countries in the Pacific. Was perfect to visit on a rainy day.

  • 5/5 Robert B. 8 months ago on Google
    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.

  • 4/5 Meaghan B. 8 months ago on Google
    Wow this place is gorgeous. I gave it five stars due to the planetarium. The ac was out and it was pretty warm. You could spend days In the museum reading everything. The volunteers/staff are very helpful. I wouldn’t recommend it for small kids but school age kids would be great. My 14 and 11 yr old were interested and kept saying hey mom Look at this.

  • 4/5 Ahmed T. 1 year ago on Google
    The exhibits that were open as part of the main building were quite extensive and very well maintained. The science building was quite the opposite: nothing to write home about; same for the garden. The 3rd (memorial) building was closed. Look for Groupon deals for sure.

  • 5/5 Yasashri R. 1 year ago on Google
    Bishop Museum is a wonderful place to learn about the culture and history of Hawaii. The museum has a variety of exhibits that showcase the rich and diverse life stories of the Hawaiian people. You can see ancient artifacts, royal regalia, natural history specimens, and more. The planetarium and the science center are also very fun and educational. The museum is very spacious and well-maintained, and the staff are knowledgeable and courteous. If you want to save some money, check Groupon for better deals, but keep in mind that they only work on weekdays. This museum will take your whole day, so plan accordingly and don't miss anything. You will be amazed by the beauty and wisdom of Hawaii

  • 4/5 Luke L. 1 year ago on Google
    It is a large museum with so many different portions and exhibitions for you to explore. If you would like to enjoy every part of the museum I would suggest coming earlier and starting early in the morning. The different exhibitions are separated by buildings. there is one focused on Space and science, and one focused on Hawaiian history, music, Art, and lifestyle. a portion that is focused on the environment and lastly, there's also one building that is good for children's interaction and education. Sadly there are quite many items that are broken or still in progress that are not completed. It feels like they rushed to finish the building and just let people come in when it was not ready.

  • 5/5 ernest g. 10 months ago on Google
    Cute little museum that had some great exhibits on Polynesian culture. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Enjoyed learning about Hawaii, the royal families and the other islands like Samoa, Tonga, New Zealand etc. Only downside was that it took several bus transfers to get there from Waikiki.

  • 5/5 Kat J T. 2 years ago on Google
    This place was amazing! It's such a unique experience rich with history, culture, art, and science. It was so edifying and so much fun!

  • 5/5 Clark C. 1 year ago on Google
    This museum is a treasure for anyone who wants to see the rich depth of Hawaii and Polynesian culture. Great for children and adults, tourists and scholars. Great gift shop, too. $5 to park, paid at a kiosk before you enter the building (you’ll need your license plate number). $16 entrance fee for military, about $26 for regular fee. Very accessible with ramps and elevators. Great place to visit if rain has canceled your outdoor plans, too.

  • 5/5 Kayla 1 year ago on Google
    This museum is fantastic and a must see. Super informative and traces the history of Hawaii and Polynesia back to original migrations and then goes through cultural developments throughout time. As a history buff I loved it. It’s fair amount of reading a cultural artifacts, but all super rich and informative. We did the planetarium show that covers how Hawaiian navigators can use the stars for navigation, and it was super well done and fascinating. Loved this place and hope to go back as we didn’t get to everything.

  • 5/5 mrsbeth911 1 year ago on Google
    I wish we'd had more time. I thoroughly enjoyed the displays about the history of Hawaii and her people, and will return when we have a couple of days to spend here. We highly recommend purchasing the Go City passes!

  • 5/5 Elizabeth Ah Q. 1 year ago on Google
    It was an easy walk up, pay $5 for parking, and $26 (Non-residental) ticket for the museum. The museum has movies to watch (additional charge) and QR code narration at most displays. You can walk around and enjoy all the museum has to offer. The aquarium tank in the science center was not operational when I went. We spent probably 2.5 hours there. Just walking and reading all the historical pieces. Very educational and fun. Lots of stairs, but does have elevators.

  • 4/5 Rebecca B. 2 years ago on Google
    I only had 30 min to explore. Definitely not enough time, I didn’t get to see everything. I went in on a Thursday afternoon, it was very quiet not many people. I did enjoy learning some things about the culture I didn’t know before. Unique museum, could have some upgrades to it, had a strange ‘old’ smell in one building. I did like the option that they let you touch & learn, that part would be fun for kids. They did have a really nice gift shop with more authentic options for souvenirs then what Waikiki has to offer. Wish I had more time to check it out.

  • 5/5 Steven B. 2 years ago on Google
    A bit off the beaten path and happy the cab driver recommended this museum. It is larger than expected but walkable in a couple hours. I was in awe at the amount of artifacts and representations they had on display. The architecture and woodwork alone in this place is museum worthy let alone what is inside. The science building was interesting as well for my kids.

  • 5/5 CJ J. 2 years ago on Google
    We love this place so much! All of the exhibits and areas are beautiful and very moving. Of course the kids absolute favorite is the science area. It's so fun... it's like going through the top, middle and abyss levels of Hawai'i. Totally fun... awesome for adults and kids and the souvenir shop is phenomenal!

  • 5/5 Jeff H. 2 years ago on Google
    Best place to learn about Polynesian culture. We art pow wow exhibit is amazing place to find new hidden talent.

  • 5/5 Kelicia J. 2 years ago on Google
    The history of the monarchy is especially informative. Learned a lot about Hawaiian history and Polynesian customs in general. There’s also a temporary exhibit called Pow Wow on street art that is awesome.


Call (808) 847-3511 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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