Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace is the restored royal residence of Hawaii's monarchy in downtown Honolulu, known for guided tours, royal rooms, palace grounds and nearby civic landmarks.

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Iolani Palace, Oahu

The 'Iolani Palace in Honolulu, Hawaii, was built as a seat of government by the “Merry Monarch” King David Kalakaua, Hawaii's final king and the first monarch to travel around the world visiting other sovereign states. Inspired by the grand palaces owned by other monarchs around the world, he constructed his own in a location that is now downtown Honolulu on the island of Oahu. Completed in 1882, it cost over $360,000. Not only is it an architectural masterpiece, but it had electricity and telephones four years before the White House did.

The 'Iolani Palace kept its splendor as a royal residence until the king's successor, his sister Queen Liliuokalani, was overthrown and imprisoned here. After eight months of imprisonment and to avoid further bloodshed of her people, the Queen surrendered to the U.S. and Hawaii became a U.S. territory. 'Iolani Palace was then used as a capitol for the new territory and then after 1959, when Hawaii became the 50th state, for the state of Hawaii. In 1969, a new state capitol was built and the neglected 'Iolani Palace was restored with the efforts of the “Friends of 'Iolani Palace.” For Native Hawaiians, the 'Iolani Palace is a reminder of the royal heritage of Hawaii and a symbol for the restoration of Hawaii's independence and sovereignty.

Visitors can do a self-guided tour. However, a guided tour is best since there are areas that are off-limits to unguided guests.

Key Features

Restored royal residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom
Only official royal palace in the United States
Located in downtown Honolulu near King Street and Richards Street
Tours offered Tuesday through Saturday
Self-led audio tours and docent-led tours vary by day
Reservations are strongly recommended
Palace Shop and ticket office have separate visitor hours
Basement Galleries closed for renovation until late 2026
Respectful clothing, footwear and palace shoe coverings required
Near the King Kamehameha Statue, Hawaii State Capitol and Honolulu Hale

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Iolani Palace important?

Iolani Palace was the royal residence of Hawaii's last reigning monarchs and is one of the most important places for understanding the Hawaiian Kingdom period.

What makes the palace unusual in the United States?

It is the only official royal palace in the United States, built for Hawaii's monarchy before the islands became a U.S. territory and later a state.

What does the name Iolani mean?

The name is often translated as “royal hawk” or “heavenly hawk,” a name associated with Hawaiian royalty and high rank.

Can visitors photograph the palace interior?

Personal photography is allowed in many areas, but flash, video, tripods, selfie sticks and commercial photography require restrictions or permission.

What else is close to Iolani Palace?

The King Kamehameha Statue, Aliiolani Hale, Hawaii State Capitol, Honolulu Hale and Hawaii State Library are all nearby in downtown Honolulu.