Spotlight's Oahu Gold Magazine

Bishop Museum

A virtual journey through Hawaii's past, the museum is recognized as the premier guardian, chronicler and exhibitor of our rich natural and cultural heritage. On display are royal cloaks, crowns, masks, weapons, and other unique Polynesian specimens. Designated the State Museum on Natural and Cultural History in 1988, Bishop Museum is where families can learn about Hawaiian Heritage as well as discover the wonders of science through fun, hands-on exhibits and programs. It is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 1525 Bernice St. in Kalihi. Call (808) 847-3511.

Bishop Museum at Kalia

Now open in the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa's Kalia Tower. This branch of Bishop Museum celebrates the history and cultural of the Hawaiian people, from the daring migration of the Polynesians to modern-day Hawai‘i, through a stunning collection of Hawaiian artifact and cultural interactive programs. Open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. For information, call (808) 947-2458.

Hawaii's Plantation Village

A fascinating guided tour takes you through a historic village where the plantation life of Hawai‘i's 19th century sugarcane society has been authentically recreated. 94-695 Waipahu St., Waipahu. Call (808) 677-0110.

Iolani Palace

The only royal palace in the United States, ‘Iolani Palace was completed in 1882, during the reign of King Kalakaua. It later served as the territorial and state capitol until the 1960s. Call (808) 538-1471 for tour information and (808) 522-0832 for reservations. On South King at Richards Street.

Kamehameha the Great

The bronze statue in front of Ali‘iolani Hale (photo right), facing ‘Iolani Palace on South King Street, is that of Kamehameha the Great who, through warfare and diplomacy between 1790 and 1810, gained control of the islands to establish the monarchy. FREE

Kawaiahao Church

Dedicated in 1842, Kawaiaha‘o is Honolulu's oldest church. It served as the chapel of Hawaiian monarchs and was the site of royal coronations, weddings and funerals. Sunday services are in English and Hawaiian. The mausoleum for King William Charles Lunalilo is located near the entrance to the church grounds on South King at Punchbowl Street. (808) 522-1333. FREE

Queen Emma Summer Palace

Once the summer retreat of Hawaiian royalty, Queen Emma Summer Palace in Nu‘uanu Valley now serves as a window to the past with many of the family's personal belongings on display. 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. daily. 2913 Pali Highway. (808) 595-3167.

Mission Houses Museum

Step back in time to 19th-century Honolulu and join guided tours of three historic structures where the first Christian missionaries to the islands lived and worked. Inquire about Living History days and special events. 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Tue.-Sat. 553 South King St., across from Kawaiaha‘o Church. (808) 531-0481.