Bishop Museum in Honolulu, HI

1525 Bernice StreetHonolulu, HI 96817
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Overview

Hawaiʻi's museum of natural and cultural history. Experience daily exhibits, garden tours, planetarium shows and interactive exhibits. Shop for authentic Hawaiian and Pacific gifts. Discover the history of Hawaiʻi!

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Good To Know

  • Parking is available for $5 daily.
  • Cafe by Highway Inn and Shop Pacifica are onsite for guests to enjoy.
  • Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
  • Public Tours included with museum admission.
  • Planetarium and Special Exhibit for additional fees.

Description

Bishop Museum is a museum of history and science located in the historic Kalihi district of Honolulu on the Hawaiian island of O'ahu. Founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop, in honor of his wife Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop—the last descendant of the royal Kamehameha dynasty—Bishop Museum houses the largest collection of Hawaiian and Pacific cultural artifacts and natural history specimens in the world. The entomological collection alone represents more than 13.5 million specimens.

Bishop Museum has been recognized throughout the world for its cultural collections, research projects, consulting services, and public educational programs. The primary purpose of the museum is to serve and represent the interests of Native Hawaiians.

Discover Hawai‘i’s history and living culture, learn about Polynesian wayfinding, and experience the thrill of an erupting volcano—only at Bishop Museum.

Signature Galleries:
  • Hawaiian Hall | Pacific Hall
  • Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kahili Room | Picture Gallery
  • Richard T. Mamiya Science Adventure Center
  • Na Ulu Kanu O Kaiwi‘ula Native Hawaiian Garden
  • J. Watumull Planetarium - additional fee (Currently limited showings due to COVID-19)


Hours of Operation:
Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Closed: Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Bishop Museum Reviews

TripAdvisor user image
funnyfarmwest
Redding, California
"I am sure this is a great place to learn the history of the islands. Too bad we missed our opportunity. Get there Early."
TripAdvisor user rating 4 out of 5
Reviewed October 02, 2024
We had heard of the Bishop Museum and were in the area one afternoon. So, we parked paid for the parking, noticed the sign said parking hours ended at 10 pm. So we walked up to the door. We had no idea the museum closed at 5pm. We walked in and were told there wasn't enough time to tour the museum and they wouldn't sell us a ticket. I guess it was around 4pm when we showed up. I know bad planning on our part, it turned out it was the only opportunity to visit the museum and leave. After we got back to our hotel room my wife called about a refund on the parking fee. She was told that they only give a half hour grace period to request a refund. But they were nice and refunded the parking fee anyway. We were looking forward to the visit while in town mainly because of the artifacts on display and comments made during a circle island tour about what was there to see. (an episode of the Classic 60's Hawaii FIve O might have had some influence too). Nevertheless, we didn't get in. Something to remember next time in town (if it ever happens again).
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foncho11
Tampa, Florida
"Very comprehensive"
TripAdvisor user rating 5 out of 5
Reviewed September 30, 2024
I am glad we were able to visit the Bishop Museum. The original building itself is beautiful and reminded me of the Natural History Museum in London. The Hawaiian culture is so rich and unique that it deserves at least half a day of your vacation time You may need extra time to visit separate exhibits housed in another building and/or to visit a children's section.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bishop Museum

Where is the Bishop Museum located?

It's located at 1525 Bernice Street, Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96817.

How much is parking at the Bishop Museum?

Parking on campus is $5 per car, per visit.

Is there a charge for handicap vehicles?

Bishop Museum has designated convenient parking for its handicapped guests. Vehicles parked in a blue handicap space and displaying a blue handicap placard will not be charged for parking.

Is there a kama‘āina discount on parking?

The parking fee is $5 per car, per visit. There is no kama‘āina discount.

What hours is the Bishop Museum Cafe?

They are open from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Please note, food and beverages are not allowed in the gallery spaces.

Are pets allowed?

Please be aware that animals are not allowed on Bishop Museum premises. This restriction does not apply to service animals.

Are photography and videography allowed inside the museum?

Visitors to the Bishop Museum are permitted to photograph and videotape our exhibits. Flash photography is permitted. Photography and videotaping for commercial use must be coordinated through the museum first.

What are the daily programs?

For a list of daily programming, visit the Bishop Museum website directly. Please check on-campus signage for changes to the daily schedule during special events. Daily programs are subject to change.