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.
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.
Edmund Garman/Flickr
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.
Cynthia Holden/Flickr
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.
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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.
BillsoPHOTO/Flickr
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.
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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.
Cynthia Holden/Flickr
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.
Cynthia Holden/Flickr
If you’re searching for a truly royal experience unlike any other, visit Iolani Palace during the Queen Kapiolani evening tours.
Scotsman in Hawaii/Flickr
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.
Edmund Garman/Flickr
Cynthia Holden/Flickr
Like_the_Grand_Canyon/Flickr
BillsoPHOTO/Flickr
jai Mansson/Flickr
Scotsman in Hawaii/Flickr
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Address: Iolani Palace, 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
