Historic 'Iolani Palace stands in downtown Honolulu on King Street, ever a symbol of the Hawaiian nation and the Hawaiian people. It is visible from both the Kamehameha Statue and Kawaihao Church.
Built in the 1882 by King David Kalakaua, it is the only Royal Palace to stand on American soil. At one time this was the tallest building in Honolulu. During the Monarchy it was the symbol of the power of the Hawaiian crown. King Kalakaua would regularly host dignitaries from around the world at 'Iolani Palace. He'd regularly have festivals for the community on the Palace grounds.
In 1893, the Hawaiian Kingdom was overthrown by greedy American businessmen with the help of the United States Marine Corps. After that event the Palace was used as the seat of the subsequent Provisional, Republic and Territorial Governments that succeeded it. Many of the furnishings of the Palace were lost over the years as they were sold or given away.
Today the Palace, now restored, is used as a museum, preserving the belongings of both King Kalakaua and his sister Queen Lili'uokalani for perpetuity. Portraits on the Hawaiian Ali'i are on display in the main hall. Regular daily tours are conducted at the 'Iolani Palace.
Also located on the Palace grounds are 'Iolani Barracks which was the home of the Royal Guard during the Monarchy. Today it is used as a souvenir shop. Nearby stands 'Iolani Bandstand which was, and still is, used by the Royal Hawaiian Band to conduct community concerts.
Palace tours are 45 minutes in length and are done every Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00am till 2:15pm. Costs are $10 for adults and $3 for children. For reservations you can call (808) 522-0832.
If you're driving out of Waikiki to 'Iolani Palace you may drive 'Ewa bound on Kalakaua Avenue until it merges with Ala Moana Blvd. Stay on Ala Moana Blvd in your right hand lane till you reach Punchbowl St. Take the right on Punchbowl until you come to Beretania. Stay on Beretania in your left hand lane and take the next right. You'll come down by 'Iolani Palace.
If you're taking the bus, you can catch the #2, 3 and 4. They will all pass through downtown and 'Iolani Palace.
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