After we knew that we, as a continental people, had explored our coasts, we annexed Hawaii. This exhibit shows the proud history of an earlier presence on the islands, and should awaken us mainlanders to an appreciation of that culture when we visit. The exhibit is filled with colors, and fabrics, and architecture, and history, and powerful women are featured... more

Call a day or two before you go and make a reservation for one of the $20 guided morning tours. Our docent was very informative and even sang some Hawaiian songs and chants. It's wonderful how the palace is being restored after coming so close to being torn down. Make sure you leave enough time if you take the bus.... more

If you are at all interested in Hawaiian history, this is a fascinating place to visit. We did the audioguide tour (offered in the afternoon) - which was pretty good, but I wish we had done the guided tour (which is only offered in the morning). In addition to the audioguides, there were some docents hanging around who were very... more

The guided tour was pricey, but it was really interesting, and I learned a lot about Hawaiian history. The palace is gorgeous, and my husband and I both enjoyed touring it. more

We did the guided tour at Iolani Palace and it was a lot of fun. Our docent (guide) was an older Japanese woman who shared many wonderful insights regarding the Hawaiian royal family and her own experiences growing up in Hawaii. Great care is taken to protect the palace from damage. This includes wearing booties during the tour. No pictures... more

I highly recommend going to see the Iolani Palace in Honolulu. The palace is conviently located in the downtown area of honolulu and is easy to get to by car or bus. A statue of King Kamehameha is across the street from the palace. No photos are allowed in the palace, but you can get some nice postcards or books... more

We had a 2 for 1 audio tour coupon, but unfortunately we went to early, the audio tours don't start until after 11am, so we ended up only being able to do the basement gallery tour, we couldn't afford the full guided tour. We were a little disapointed, not woth the money just to see the basement, so I would... more

We visited Iolani palace with our 2 girls, ages 6 and 10. We did the guided tour (there is also a self-guided tour). It was very interesting and we learned a lot about Hawaiian history - some good, some bad. Our guide was very informative and we left feeling like we'd seen an important piece of local history. It was... more

we visited the Iolani Palace in Aug. 2008. Take the guided audio tour. It is very interesting visiting the only palace on US soil. You feel like your in a different country to hear about the Kings and Queens their lifestyles. I would definately recommended seeing the basement where they keep the crown jewels and royal dress. It was all... more