Explore Hawaii’s Famous Iolani Palace By Night In Honor Of Queen Kapiolani’s Birthday
While there are countless castles scattered throughout the United States, there is only one royal palace on American soil — Hawaii’s own Iolani Palace, a place of pure magic and beauty nestled in Honolulu’s capital district. And while we love visiting this slice of history during the day, we can’t wait to explore after dark this winter during the limited nighttime tours offered in honor of Queen Kapiolani’s Birthday. One of the best castles in the US, a visit to America’s very own royal residence belongs on your bucket list.
The breathtaking Iolani Palace tells a fascinating story of Hawaii’s history, and has been the home to a royal family, executive building for a new republic, prison to an overthrown queen, capitol building for a territory, martial law headquarters, treasure to Hawaii’s first governor, and now a cultural icon, museum, and National Historic Landmark.
The original palace was used mainly meant to receive foreign dignitaries, with many monarchs choosing to sleep in private homes. That is until King Kalakaua commissioned the current Iolani Palace to be constructed. Outfitted with electricity, telephones, and indoor plumbing, the palace surpassed the White House in terms of technology and innovation.
Iolani Palace was opened to the public as a museum in 1978, and is open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with guided tours and self-led audio tours available, as well as this special evening tour opportunities.
On December 28, 29, and 30, 2019, from 5:30 to 9 p.m., guests can stroll the halls of Iolani Palace by moonlight in honor of Her Majesty Queen Kapiolani’s birthday on December 31st.
Take a step back in time as you experience a royal celebration reminiscent of the ones the monarchs enjoyed during the 19th century. Adorned with shimmering decorations and featuring plenty of live music, this is a rare opportunity that you won’t want to pass up.
For a more intimate experience, opt for the VIP Opening Night Reception on Saturday, December 28 that is limited to 320 guests and features delicious food and cocktails in the barracks, along with special performances by Na Hoku Hanohano.
Tour patrons can explore the castle’s grand hall facing a massive koa staircase, as well as the throne room, a beautiful blue meeting room, dining room, and even the private bedrooms of royalty.
The 2019 Queen Kapiolani Evening Tours will take place Saturday through Monday, December 28 through 30 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. nightly. On these nights, regular day time tours will end at 3 p.m. in order to prepare for the evening tours. Tickets for the opening night reception on Saturday and the general admission nights on Sunday and Monday can be purchased online. If you can’t make it for an evening tour, visit during the day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, head to the Iolani Palace website.
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Address: Iolani Palace, 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
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With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
