Wailoa Center, Big Island
Hawaii's vibrant art scene takes center stage at the Wailoa Center in Hilo. Located in the Wailoa State Park, the Center is the premier arts and culture hub of Hilo, featuring works by local and international artists of all styles and genres. Art lovers can spend an entire day admiring the pieces and learning about Hilo's culture straight from the artists themselves.
There are family-friendly galleries for children, larger art collections for adults and occasional performances by popular local artists. Shows and exhibits are staged throughout the year. Summer is usually the busiest season and is the best time to come if you like the art scene.
The museum is part of the Wailoa State Park situated, a popular spot for picnics and day trips. From the Center, you can explore the rest of the park. Some sights worth seeing are the lagoon and its footbridges, wandering trails and footpaths, and a 14-foot bronze statue of Kamehameha I. Fishing is allowed, but strictly regulated.
Hours:
Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Wednesdays from 12 pm to 4:30 pm
Closed Saturday, Sunday and holidays
Admission: Free
Wailoa Center Overview
- State-run gallery features exhibits that change monthly
- Wailoa River State Park surrounds the Center
- Wailoa River flows through the park, ending at Waiakea Pond
- Two memorials are in the park – Tsunami Memorial and Vietnam War Memorial





