Table of Contents
Honolulu, Hawaii's capital and largest city, is a fascinating blend of exotic beach culture and a thriving cosmopolitan metropolis.
One of the most visited places in the world, Hawaii is known for its beautiful weather, pristine beaches, and colorful cocktails served in pink plastic umbrellas. The Hawai'i State Art Museum, cultural activities, and the Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside Park are all great free things to do in Hawaii.
Map of Free Things to Do in Honolulu
1 Chinatown Market District
On the western edge of Downtown Honolulu's financial center is a lively neighborhood known as Chinatown. This part of Downtown Honolulu is teeming with traditional Chinese markets, hip boutiques, galleries, and tourists. It's hard to believe that this was once a very seedy neighborhood, characterized by the red-light district and illegal gambling.
Art developed the area in recent years into a thriving, ethnically diverse place to eat, shop, and be creative. While there, be sure to visit the historic Hawaii Theater; when it opened in 1922, it was dubbed “The Pride of the Pacific.”
The western part of Chinatown, in particular, is a prime example of a fantastic multicultural immigrant community that includes Chinese, Vietnamese, Micronesians, Koreans, Laotians, Thais, Filipinos, Portuguese, and Native Hawaiians.
Off the Beaten Path: Oahu Food Tour in Honolulu Chinatown
2 Aloha Tower
Aloha Tower is a well-known landmark in Hawaii. For forty years after its construction in September 1926, it was the tallest structure on the islands, and its clock was one of the largest in the country. Since Oahu could only be reached by sea, the tower served as a warm welcome for guests. It's worth visiting the Aloha Tower for yourself. The observation deck is accessible by elevator, and admission is free.
3 Manoa Chinese Cemetery
Manoa Chinese Cemetery is located on a knoll on the inner slopes of Honolulu's Manoa Valley. A valley whose natural shape resembles an amphitheater. Founded in 1852, Manoa Chinese Cemetery is the oldest cemetery in the Hawaiian Islands.
Its real name is Lin Yee Chung Cemetery, named after the founding family, Lin Yee Chung. It is the oldest and largest cemetery, with over 10,000 individual graves standing close together. Although it is a cemetery, you should visit this place – practically a cultural asset.
4 Hawaii State Art Museum
The Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM) features contemporary art – paintings, ceramics, sculpture, sculpture, and more. The HiSAM consists of four galleries, a sculpture garden, an activity room, and much more.
In addition to the sculpture garden, you'll also find a gift store, cafeteria, and the very popular “I Love Art” section where you can try your hand at being an artist. Admission is free, so plan around two hours for your visit. It is accessible to both a stroller and a wheelchair.
5 Hawaii State Capitol
The Hawaii State Capitol was commissioned and inaugurated under the initiative of John A. Burns, Hawaii’s second governor. The building is rich in symbolism: the two conical legislative chambers represent the volcanoes that formed the islands. The stunning “Aquarius” mosaic by Tadashi Sato reflects the ever-changing colors of the waters off Hawaii’s coast.
The columns on the top floor are grouped in eights, symbolizing the eight Hawaiian islands: Hawai'i, Kaua'i, Lana'i, Moloka'i, Maui, Ni'ihau, O'ahu, and Kaho'olawe. Public tours are available on weekdays by appointment, and a self-guided tour brochure can be picked up on the fourth floor.
6 Washington Place
Washington Place has a rich history and has often been at the center of key events in Hawaii. Between 1844 and 1847, Captain John Dominis built this impressive estate – though he never got to enjoy it, as he was lost at sea in 1846.
His wife converted part of the house into private residences. One of the first occupants was Anthony Ten Eyck, a U.S. Commissioner, who named the building “Washington Place.” Later, William Little Lee, Hawaii’s first Chief Justice, also lived here.
The house eventually became the private residence of Queen Liliʻuokalani after she married Captain Dominis’s son. Following her death, it served as the Territorial Governor’s residence from 1919 to 1959, and as the State Governor’s residence until 2002. Today, Washington Place is a historic house museum – a fascinating spot to step back into Hawaii’s past.
7 Aliʻiōlani Hale
Originally planned as a palace for King Kamehameha V, it quickly became clear that Hawaii needed a government building more urgently. Aliʻiōlani Hale was therefore constructed as an administrative building instead.
In the courtyard stands the famous life-sized, gold-leaf statue of King Kamehameha the Great. Aliʻiōlani Hale means “House of the Heavenly Kings.” For many years, it housed various government offices and courts.
Today, it is home to the Hawaii Supreme Court, the legal library, and the Judiciary History Center, which showcases Oahu’s 200-year legal history and displays original furniture. Admission is free – a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
8 Honolulu Museum of Art
Founded in 1922 by Anna Rice, the Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA) is the largest art museum in the state. Located in the heart of Honolulu, it serves as a hub where art, education, culture, and history come together.
HoMA inspires the community, celebrates creativity, and honors Hawaii’s rich cultural diversity. In addition to its exhibitions, the museum offers art classes, workshops, live performances, and film screenings – making a visit worthwhile in every sense.
While admission is free for Hawaii residents, visitors will need to purchase a ticket, but the world-class collection makes it a truly worthwhile experience.
9 Tantalus Lookout
The Tantalus Lookout is one of the most magical spots on Oahu to watch the sunset. Sit on the grassy hillside, gaze over the city, and take in the breathtaking view of Waikiki. High above the hustle and bustle, a gentle breeze often blows, so bringing a light jacket is a good idea.
You can drive right up to the lookout, about 15 minutes from Waikiki. Official hours are 7:00 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. in summer and until 6:45 p.m. in winter, but in practice, security often lets visitors stay to enjoy the entire sunset. A truly unforgettable experience!
Share Now
Jetzt Teilen
