Iolani Palace
Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States, built in 1882 by King David Kalakaua in downtown Honolulu. Once home to Hawaii's last reigning monarchs, the palace showcases the grandeur and political history of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Today, it is a cherished historic site and museum, offering guided and self-guided tours that explore royal furnishings, throne rooms, and the imprisonment chamber of Queen Liliuokalani. A powerful symbol of Hawaiian heritage, Iolani Palace stands as a reminder of sovereignty, cultural pride, and resilience.
Iolani Palace, Oahu
The Iolani Palace (view panorama) × in Honolulu, Hawaii, was built as a seat of government by the “Merry Monarch” King David Kalakaua, Hawaii's final king and the first monarch to travel around the world visiting other sovereign states. Inspired by the grand palaces owned by other monarchs around the world, he constructed his own in a location that is now downtown Honolulu on the island of Oahu. Completed in 1882, it cost over $360,000. Not only is it an architectural masterpiece, but it had electricity and telephones four years before the White House did.
The Iolani Palace kept its splendor as a royal residence until the king's successor, his sister Queen Liliuokalani, was overthrown and imprisoned here. After eight months of imprisonment and to avoid further bloodshed of her people, the Queen surrendered to the U.S. and Hawaii became a U.S. territory. Iolani Palace was then used as a capitol for the new territory and then after 1959, when Hawaii became the 50th state, for the state of Hawaii. In 1969, a new state capitol was built and the neglected Iolani Palace was restored with the efforts of the “Friends of Iolani Palace.” For Native Hawaiians, the Iolani Palace is a reminder of the royal heritage of Hawaii and a symbol for the restoration of Hawaii's independence and sovereignty.
Visitors can do a self-guided tour. However, a guided tour is best since there are areas that are off-limits to unguided guests.
Key Features of Iolani Palace
- Only royal palace in the United States: Former residence of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani, showcasing Hawaii's monarchical legacy.
- Architectural masterpiece: Built in 1882 with state-of-the-art amenities, including electricity and telephones before the White House.
- Restored historical landmark: Painstakingly preserved by the Friends of Iolani Palace after its use as a government building.
- Tour options: Visitors can choose between self-guided audio tours and in-depth docent-led experiences.
- Central location: Situated in downtown Honolulu near other historic sites like the Hawaii State Capitol and Kawaiahao Church.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Iolani Palace the only royal palace in the U.S.?
Yes, Iolani Palace is the only official royal palace in the United States and was home to Hawaii's last two monarchs.
Can I tour the inside of the palace?
Yes, visitors can book self-guided or docent-led tours to explore the palace interiors, including the throne room and private quarters.
Where is the palace located?
The Iolani Palace is located at 364 South King Street, in the historic center of downtown Honolulu on the island of Oahu.
Is there public transportation to Iolani Palace?
Yes, several city buses (#2, 13, 19, 20) stop nearby, and the palace is accessible within a 10-minute drive from Waikiki.