"Learn Hawaiian History the Fun Way" Bishop Museum Tip by Rixie

The Bishop Museum is one of my favorite places in the world. It houses a wonderful collection of artifacts from old Hawaii and Polynesia, and also tells the story of the immigrant groups who have contributed to Hawaii's history.

There are feather war gods, huge gourd bowls, clubs studded with sharks' teeth, a full-size grass hut, and things that belonged to Hawaiian royalty, and special exhibits. (After you've seen all the feathers taken from the tail of the o'o, you can make up your own story about how the bird got its name... )

The Planetarium has several different shows, one explaining how the ancient Hawaiians navigated by the stars. With my faulty sense of direction, I probably would have ended up in Alaska.

The Science Adventure Center offers interactive exhibits about Hawaii's environment, including simulated lava flows and tidal waves. When we were there in 2009, an animated dinosaur exhibit was there for a few months.

Local hula and music groups often perform in the main hall, and once we went to a children's festival on the grounds.

Admission: Adults $ 15.95, Seniors (65 & over)and children 4-12 years $ 12.95. Children 3 & under - free. Discounts for military and kama'aina, but you must show ID. Some buildings date from the 1880s, not all are wheelchair accessible.

For detailed directions and a current schedule of events, please refer to the museum website.

Address: 1525 Bernice Street
Phone: 808-847-3511
Website: http://www.bishopmuseum.org