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to put on a pair of booties to walk across the beautiful palace floors. Audio tours allow for self-guided walks, but they don't include some of the areas that only docents can go.

The museum's galleries can be toured alone, so if you are interested primarily in the artifacts and collections of the Iolani Palace, you can skip the grounds and the visits to the stately rooms and go straight for the treasures. A guided tour is highly recommended, though, as some of the home's highlights are its lavish private rooms, and you will still have to be booked to even enter the museum.

Highlights of the Iolani Palace Museum

While the entire palace is not-to-be-missed, there are several bright spots on the tour. The two-story staircase is the only one of its kind you're likely to ever see, carved completely out of local koa wood. The Throne Room, the King's Library and the Dining Room are some of the rooms that have been restored to their former glory, complete with luxurious furnishings and chandeliers (some of the palace's rooms still remain unfurnished). The highlight of the gallery tour is the chance to see the actual royal crowns worn by Hawaii's royals.

Museum Information

The palace is located at South King and Richards Street in downtown Honolulu. Admission is $15 for adults and $5 for children between 5 and 13. Children under 5 are not admitted, so you will need to hire a sitter or make alternate plans for half the family if you are traveling together (a distinct disadvantage to the museum). You must call ahead to reserve tours, which take place Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00am to 2:15 pm. Admission is not allowed without a booked reservation, so be sure to call ahead. (808-522-0832)

The Iolani Palace is a chance to glimpse a part of our country's diverse culture that you won't get to see in any other part of the United States. It's also a chance to see the stately side of Hawaii's history, which stands in stark contrast to the island luaus and party scene. While it's definitely a downside that you can't take your smaller children, families with older ones will enjoy the chance to experience the culture and history of the island in such stunning surroundings.

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