Visit America’s Royal Palace – ‘Iolani Palace

Hawaii is the only state in the union once ruled by a monarchy. Kings and queens ruled this tropical paradise until 1893. They built palaces throughout the Hawaiian Kingdom. But, the best known and most luxurious is Oahu’s ‘Iolani Palace.

Completed in 1882, ‘Iolani Palace was home to jubilant celebrations and the darkest days of Hawaiian history. Queen Lili’uokalani was the last Hawaiian monarch to live here. When her government was overthrown in 1893, she was imprisoned within these walls. For 8 months, she was confined to the Front Room while awaiting her trial. The Palace continued to be used even though the monarchy was gone. Until 1968, it served as the Hawaii Republic, Territory, and State capital.

Today, 'Iolani Palace has been restored to its formal regal glory. Many of the Palace’s original furnishings still decorate the walls and halls. Visitors will tour:

•The Throne Room: The monarchy hosted royal balls, lavish receptions, and jubilees in this maroon and gold decked out room. But, it wasn’t all celebration all the time. In 1895, Queen Lili’uokalani’s trial was held here.

•The Blue Room: The White House may have a Blue Room, but it can’t match this version. Portraits of the monarch adorn the walls. Gifts from the French government, including a larger than life portrait of King Louis Phillipe, found a home here. It’s also where informal receptions were routinely held.

•State Dining Room: Take a look at the massive sideboards in this room. The A.H. Davenport Company made these stately pieces in Boston, MA and shipped them to the islands. Think of that journey!

•The Stairway: Imagine descending these stairs in your regal dress preparing to host the President of France circa 1883. The stairs are hand-carved from Hawaiian woods.

•The Residences: Ladies lived in the rooms on the Waikiki Side. Men lived on the ‘Ewa side. You’ll tour the front room where Queen Lili’uokalani was imprisoned in. And you’ll walk through the library and see one of Honolulu’s first telephones.

•Royal Hawaiian Band Concerts: Try visiting the Palace on a Friday. The Royal Hawaiian Band gives an impressive (and free!) hour long concert on the steps of the Palace. They’ll play Aloha ‘Oe along with other Hawaiian favorites. It’s a Hawaiian tradition since the 1800’s! Concert occurs between 12PM and 1PM.

Visitors can take a docent led guided tour or a self-guided audio tour. Both tours take around one hour. We strongly recommend you take the docent guided tour to make the most of your visit. It will cost a little more, but the history you’ll learn will be priceless. For more details and for tour reservations, visit
www.iolanipalace.org/index.php/museum-information.html

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