Honolulu Museum of Art

Honolulu Museum of Art, Oahu

Founded in 1927 by Anna Rice Cooke, the Honolulu Museum of Art (formerly the Honolulu Academy of Arts) is an art museum located near downtown Honolulu, featuring a collection of over 50,000 works. The museum's major strengths are European and American paintings, graphic and decorative arts and the arts of Asia. It also has a Hawaiian collection, an Oceania collection, an Africa collection and a textiles collection.

The museum's mission is education and it also administers the Honolulu Museum of Art School (formerly the Academy Art Center at Linekona), the largest private art school in the Islands. Besides the exhibitions, there is a café, the Robert Allerton Art Library and a museum shop.

Key Features

Major Honolulu art museum near downtown

Collections include Asian, European, American, Pacific and contemporary art

Peaceful courtyards and indoor galleries

Good rainy-day option in Honolulu

Close to Waikiki, Ala Moana and downtown Honolulu

Check current hours, admission, exhibitions and parking before visiting

Can pair with Iolani Palace, Capitol Modern or other Honolulu sights

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Honolulu Museum of Art known for?

The museum is known for its broad art collection, peaceful courtyards, rotating exhibitions and works connected to Asia, Europe, the Americas, Hawaii and the Pacific.

Is Honolulu Museum of Art near Waikiki?

Yes. The museum is a short drive from Waikiki when traffic is light, though drive times can increase during busy Honolulu traffic periods.

How much time should visitors allow?

Many visitors allow one to two hours, with more time if they want to see special exhibitions, the courtyards, the museum shop or nearby Honolulu sights.

Is Honolulu Museum of Art a good rainy-day activity?

Yes. Indoor galleries make it a good choice when beach weather is poor or when you want a quieter cultural stop in Honolulu.

What else is nearby?

Nearby areas include downtown Honolulu, Ala Moana, Waikiki and the government district, where visitors can also find Iolani Palace and Capitol Modern.