As the only royal palace in the entire United States, Lolani Palace boasts a splendor and majesty that highlight the island’s lavish history and culture. Built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, this beautiful structure gives its visitors a unique perspective of Hawaiian kings’ lives. Upon entering the lavishly decorated halls, it is easy to be transported back to a time of grandeur and tradition.
If you are a history/social studies teacher, an architectural buff, or just looking for something unique while traveling, Lolani Palace makes for an outstanding addition to your itinerary in Honolulu. Even the grand architecture displays influences of both European and Hawaiian stylings, with its ornately crafted furniture, monumental staircases, and beautiful interiors using nothing but koa wood.
The public is also welcome to view the throne room, royal bedrooms, and spacious Coronation Pavilion. I encouraged our children to explore the richly groomed grounds as well, where the large banyan trees and flowering bushes are speculated to be calming to the senses.
During guided excursions, you will explore incredible stories involving Hawaii’s royalty, beginning with the imprisonment of Queen Liliuokalani in the palace. Lolani Palace is not simply a history lesson; one can say it transports one back to Hawaii’s royal past.
The Grand Throne Room – Where Royalty Once Presided
The Grand Throne Room of the gorgeous Lolani Palace is one of the few places that is more spectacular than the rest of this lovely building because it is the room that served as the courtroom for Hawaiian monarchs. It is a classic room detailed with gold trim, crystal, and authentic Hawaiian quilts on the walls, and overall reflected the elegance and ostentations that accompany royal fortunes.
Two thrones are present for King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani to remind its citizen of past sovereignty as reward for their loyalty. Visitors first see the high-quality craftsmanship of the hand-carved koa wood doors and look at the images of Hawaiian royalty selected to hang on the walls.
This room was the ballroom for hosting great balls and other diplomatic receptions and was the social center of the palace. A visit to the throne room can provide a broader understanding of the Hawaiian monarchy and its fate about the rest of the world. Make sure you see the views; this room is one of the highlights of visiting good ol Lolani Palace.
The Coronation Pavilion – A Historic Outdoor Gem
Adjacent to the Lolani Palace is the Coronation Pavilion, the iconic site of King Kalakaua’s crowning in 1883. This open-air structure is a welcome relief from the city, surrounded by trees and greenery. The architectural treatment of the pavilion presents a classic of Hawaiian craftsmanship with its delicate ironwork and gentle curves.
It also serves as an ideal venue for contemplation, photography, and observing the panorama of the palace gardens. Many crowds may overlook this structure, but the Coronation Pavilion is still an important part of the entire experience of Lolani Palace as it relates to history. It is worth pausing to see this magnificent structure formally or on your own.
The Palace Galleries – Treasures of Hawaiian History
Lo’i Palace is more than an assemblage of historical gems; its palace galleries contain fascinating exhibitions. The curated exhibitions include royal belongings and artifacts of Hawaiian monarchs as well as historic documents. Highlights include quilt work from Queen Liliuokalani, ceremonial swords from King Kalakaua, as well as some rare photographic images of Hawaii’s Royal family.
Each item has its own narrative story, which will add to your understanding of Hawaii’s political and cultural evolution. Going through the galleries means you will substantiate your understanding of LOLANI PALACE’s historic legacy. Do not miss the chance to add this to your connection to Hawaii’s royal legacy.
The Palace Grounds – A Serene Escape in Honolulu
The grounds of the Lolani Palace feature expansive and stately interiors with green space that inspires relaxation. The ambiance is tranquil, with lofty banyan trees, the scent of plumeria flowers, and manicured grass lawns. Amble along its walkways or simply sit quietly on a bench soaking up the royal character of the palace.
There are also stunning views of downtown Honolulu from the grounds, making it a paradise for photographers. A big part of the Lolani Palace experience is appreciating the sights or relaxing in the grounds.
Why Lolani Palace Should Be on Your Travel List
Wonderful architectural stature and royal history make it a travel paradise. Every corner of this place remains a must see for anyone coming to Hawaii. Lolani Palace is for history lovers, culture lovers, or beauty lovers, and so now you get to go there. Go ahead! Step into the Hawaiian royal past!
