What Makes the Iolani Palace Special?

The Iolani Palace is a royal living restoration of the rulers of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The palace is considered a symbol of promise for the Hawaiian monarchy constructed by King Kalakaua in 1882. It was the official royal residence and also the residence of the Kingdom’s social and political life until 1893. It is situated in the capitol district of downtown Honolulu in Hawaii. It is known as the home of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs. 

History of Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace represents the Hawaiian historical period when King Kalakaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, walked the grand halls and ruled the kingdom. The palace holds important memories of grand balls and hula performances and also Liliuokalani’s overthrow, which was the tragic story of Liliuokalani’s detention. 

After the Hawaiian kingdom’s overthrow, the palace underwent many transformations. It served as the capital for around 80 years. When the monarchy was deposed, the palace was registered as a National Historic Landmark in 1962. It is the only royal residence in the US that has become one of the most recognizable buildings in Hawaii.

A Palace for Royalty
On December 31, 1879, the Iolani Palace was set down with full masonic rites, and construction was completed in 1882. The palace was the official residence of Hawaiian monarchs, where they organized functions and entertained often. Iolani Palace offers up-to-date amenities, such as indoor plumbing, electric lights, and modern communication systems. 

Queen’s Imprisonment

On January 20, 1891, Queen Liliuokalani succeeded her brother after his death. She built up the political power of the Hawaiian monarchy. However, the Committee of Safety opposed the queen because of the new changes put forward by her. This committee later planned the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and strengthened the establishment of the provisional government. 

In 1895, Queen Liliuokalani was arrested and forced to resign from the throne. She was fined, convicted, and sentenced to prison for five years. 

Restoration of the Palace
Iolani Palace became the government headquarters after the overthrow of the monarchy. The personal belongings of the palace were returned to the royal family, and original furnishings were sold at a public auction. 

In 1969, the government office moved to the current state capitol building. Today, the palace rooms are restored to a monarchy-era appearance. Many sold objects have been recovered from various parts of the world. 

Why Is Queen Liliuokalani Important?

Queen Liliuokalani is important because she was the last of the Kalākaua dynasty and the only queen regnant of the Hawaiian monarchy. She ruled from January 29, 1891, till the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy on January 17, 1893. She tried to restore powers but her attempts to strengthen the political power of the Hawaiian monarchy went in vain. The US military-backed coup overturned her in 1893. They created an official government and Hawaii was announced as a republic in 1894. 

Iolani Palace Tickets

Various tour options are offered in the palace from Tuesday to Saturday. Tour options vary based on the day and time. You can book the tickets online. Let’s look at a detailed view of the tickets: 

1. Docent-Led Tours

Travel through the stories of royal residents, furnishings, and gallery exhibitions. Check-in 30 minutes before the timing. Allows 60 minutes for you to enjoy all aspects of the tour. Admission is free for the members of the Friends of Iolani Palace.

2. Japanese Language Docent-Led Tour

The tour runs for around one hour on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 pm. You can go through the events of the 19th century, the life of the royal family, and the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. Tour capacity is limited to 20 people, and admission fee ticket reservations can be made online.

Collections in the Iolani Palace

Several miscellaneous furnishings and objects are found in the Iolani Palace. The materials, marks, and patterns of these collections indicate royal provenance. The worldwide search for missing palace objects is continuing.

Some palace objects have been recovered from 36 states and 4 foreign countries. Historical photos of palace rooms, people, and events provide valuable information about the palace furnishings.

Collection Items

• The crown, motto, and King Kalākaua’s monogram on the silver-plated brush
• Cigarette case with crown and King Kalākaua’s monogram
• Silver cup with crown and monogram
• Napkin ring with crown and monogram
• Royal seal with crown
• Wall mirror detail
• Milo calabash with lid
• Coconut calabash with base
• King Kalākaua’s monogram
• Spelter statues

Things to Know Before You Visit

Attire

• Guests should be dressed in a manner that is respectful of cultural significance.
• Footwear and shoes are required, but you must wear shoe coverings provided by the palace.
• Beachwear and bathsuits are not permitted.

Photography

• Visitors can take selfies and share their experiences.
• Commercial photography is forbidden without prior approval by the palace and the Hawaii State Film Office.
• Videotaping, flash photography, audio recording, tripods, and extended lenses are prohibited.

Children

• Entry for children under 5 is free of charge. They must be carried in a palace stroller.
• Personal strollers are not permitted inside the palace.

Personal Belongings

Backpacks, luggage, large bags, food, and beverages are not allowed inside the palace. 

Service Animals

• Service animals are permitted.
• You must notify the cashier or reservation office before entering the Iolani Palace.

Start booking your next tour and explore the palace from a new perspective. Experience the palace collections, such as military accessories, furniture, digital collections, royal orders, and other historic photos.