'Imiloa Astronomy Center
Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo connects Hawaiian navigation, Maunakea astronomy, interactive exhibits, planetarium shows and garden paths near the University of Hawaii at Hilo.
Big Island Museum Guide
Big Island Museums
Big Island museums share Hawaii Island through history, science, culture, ranching, astronomy and the forces that shaped the island. Visit Hilo museums for tsunami stories, natural history and missionary-era homes, head to Waimea for paniolo heritage, or add Maunakea and Hamakua Coast stops for astronomy, railroads and community history.
Museum directory
Big Island Museums
Browse Big Island museums, including cultural exhibits, historic collections, local stories and educational places to visit around the island.
East Hawaii Cultural Center
East Hawaii Cultural Center is a downtown Hilo arts center with rotating exhibitions, community programs, classes and a historic building across from Kalakaua Park.
Hulihe'e Palace
Hulihe'e Palace is a royal-era museum on Ali'i Drive in Kailua-Kona, with koa furniture, Hawaiian artifacts, oceanfront lanais and ties to Hawaii's monarchy.
Laupahoehoe Train Museum
Laupahoehoe Train Museum is a community-run Hamakua Coast museum in the old station agent's house, with railroad photos, plantation history, a caboose and local stories.
Lyman Museum and Mission House
Lyman Museum and Mission House in Hilo shares Hawaii Island's natural and cultural history, with volcanic exhibits, minerals, artifacts and an 1839 mission house.
Maunakea Visitor Information Station
Maunakea Visitor Information Station is a high-elevation visitor center at 9,200 feet, with mountain safety guidance, night-sky viewing, restrooms and access information.
Pacific Tsunami Museum
Pacific Tsunami Museum in downtown Hilo shares tsunami history, survivor stories, science exhibits and Hawaii Island's connection to the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis.
Parker Ranch Historic Homes and Grounds
Parker Ranch Historic Homes and Grounds in Waimea share nearly 200 years of ranch history, Parker family rooms, art, gardens and paniolo heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best museums on the Big Island?
Big Island museums include 'Imiloa Astronomy Center, Hulihe'e Palace, Lyman Museum and Mission House, Pacific Tsunami Museum, Parker Ranch Historic Homes and East Hawaii Cultural Center.
Which Big Island museum is best for astronomy?
'Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo connects Hawaiian voyaging, star navigation, Maunakea astronomy, planetarium shows and interactive exhibits.
Where can visitors learn about Big Island royal history?
Hulihe'e Palace in Kailua-Kona preserves royal artifacts, koa furniture, Hawaiian monarchy history and oceanfront palace stories on Alii Drive.
Which Big Island museum explains tsunami history?
Pacific Tsunami Museum in Hilo shares tsunami science, survivor stories, the 1946 and 1960 tsunami events, warning systems and public preparedness.
Are Big Island museums good for rainy days?
Yes. Museums in Hilo, Kailua-Kona, Waimea and along the Hamakua Coast offer indoor exhibits, cultural stories and historical context when weather changes.