The Best Museums for Families in Honolulu

Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious food. But did you know that it is also home to some of the best museums for families? These museums offer a fun and educational experience for both children and adults, making them a must-visit for families traveling to Honolulu.

The Bishop Museum

Honolulu family activities are not complete without a visit to the Bishop Museum. This museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of Hawaii and the Pacific. It has a vast collection of artifacts, including traditional Hawaiian weapons, royal regalia, and natural history specimens. The Bishop Museum also has interactive exhibits that are perfect for families.

Children can learn about volcanoes, marine life, and even try their hand at being an archaeologist. The museum also offers special programs and events throughout the year, such as storytelling sessions and cultural performances. One of the highlights of the Bishop Museum is the Jhamandas Watumull Planetarium. Families can enjoy a 30-minute show that takes them on a journey through the stars and planets. The planetarium also offers special shows for children, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu Museum of Art is another must-visit for families.

This museum has an impressive collection of over 50,000 pieces of art from Asia, Europe, and America. It also has a vast collection of Hawaiian art, including traditional wood carvings and paintings. The museum offers family-friendly activities such as scavenger hunts and art-making workshops. Children can also participate in the museum's Art Explorers program, where they can learn about different cultures and create their own art pieces. One of the highlights of the Honolulu Museum of Art is its outdoor sculpture garden. Families can take a stroll through the garden and admire the beautiful sculptures while enjoying the warm Hawaiian weather.

Honolulu Zoo

While not technically a museum, the Honolulu Zoo is a must-visit for families.

This 42-acre zoo is home to over 900 different animals, including many endangered species. Children will love seeing animals such as elephants, giraffes, and tigers up close. The zoo also offers educational programs and activities for children, such as animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours. Families can also take a ride on the zoo's train or visit the petting zoo to get up close and personal with some friendly animals. One of the unique features of the Honolulu Zoo is its focus on conservation and sustainability. Families can learn about the zoo's efforts to protect endangered species and their habitats while enjoying a fun day out.

Honolulu Children's Discovery Center

The Honolulu Children's Discovery Center is a hands-on museum that offers a fun and interactive learning experience for children.

The museum has six different galleries, each with a different theme, such as health and fitness, Hawaiian culture, and science and technology. Children can explore the different galleries and participate in various activities, such as building structures with blocks, creating music with different instruments, and learning about Hawaiian traditions through storytelling. The museum also has a water play area where children can learn about marine life while having fun. The Honolulu Children's Discovery Center also offers special events and programs throughout the year, such as summer camps and family nights. It is a great place for families to spend a few hours or even a whole day.

Honolulu Fire Department Museum

The Honolulu Fire Department Museum is a unique museum that offers a glimpse into the history of firefighting in Hawaii. The museum has a collection of vintage fire engines, equipment, and uniforms, as well as photographs and artifacts from the early days of the Honolulu Fire Department. Children will love exploring the different fire engines and learning about the brave men and women who risk their lives to keep the community safe.

The museum also has interactive exhibits where children can try on firefighter gear and learn about fire safety. The Honolulu Fire Department Museum also offers guided tours for families, where they can learn about the history of firefighting in Hawaii and see some of the oldest fire engines in the state.

In Conclusion

Honolulu is not just a beach destination; it is also home to some of the best museums for families. From learning about Hawaiian culture to exploring different art forms, there is something for everyone in these museums. So next time you are planning a family trip to Honolulu, make sure to add these museums to your itinerary for a fun and educational experience.