Closed on the day we went. Sketchy area IMO but cool to see. Amazing how it's open air. Cool Architecture. read more

See all

Adding another U.S. State capitol visited to our list, the Hawaii State Capitol building is located in downtown Honolulu, right across from the Iolani Palace (the seat of power when Hawaii was ruled by a monarch). Unlike other capitol buildings we have visited, it was hard to initially tell what it was. It resembles a federal office building built on the Brutalist architectural style. Reading a bit more on it, it looks like this style is called 'tropical brutalism'...it wasn't a favorite of ours. That being said, the building had some huge advantages, the main one being that the five accessible floors with offices, all had entries facing the outside, taking advantage of the Hawaiian weather: it wasn't a far walk to quickly be outside. We had to go through a metal detector on the ground floor and took and took an elevator up to the top, the executive floor. The office of the governor and lieutenant governor was there, and the governor office's doorway was left open, inviting visitors in for a peek. The office workers/pages were super friendly, making us feel welcome. We then enjoyed the weather from the roof of the building. We were able to see part of our cruise ship, docked at the nearby port. The other side showed the mountains, a common background wherever you are in Hawaii. read more

See all

The State Capitol is awesome. It's designed as a volcano, surrounded by water. The governor is on the 5th floor Legislators are located on several floors. There is a public resource room which is very helpful. read more

Hawaii State Capitol - At the Hawai'i state capitol. Here's a view looking down from the fourth floor. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Hawaii is more than a picture-perfect postcard paradise, and tourists traveling to O'ahu should consider adding a tour of the Hawaii Capitol Historic District to their itinerary. The area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the historic seat of government, spanning from the Hawaiian Kingdom to the present. I particularly enjoyed my visit to the Hawaii State Capitol, which was symbolically designed with the flora and physical features of Hawaii in mind. It was built on the grounds of the former royal residence of Queen Dowager and King Lunalilo, and it features statues of two important historical figures: Father Damien (a Belgian priest who cared for leprosy patients on Moloka'i for 16 years) and Queen Liliʻuokalani (the last reigning monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom and a defender of Hawaiian sovereignty). read more

See all

The Hawaii State Capitol is an extraordinary mid century modern structure that houses the Hawaiian Senate and Representatives and Governor The structure was designed by a several architectural firms working together: Belt, Lemmon & Lo and John Carl Warnecke & Associates. The building, completed in 1969 (10 years after Hawaii became a state), is the only State Capitol to have an open air atrium. Many elements of the building have symbolic meaning. Curved glass walls of the legislative chambers represent the volcanic structure of the islands. The columns outside represent palm trees. Since the building is undergoing restoration, some features, I could not see. The statue of Queen Lili'Uokalani peering into the building was one of my favorite and symbolic features. She was the last reining monarch of Hawaii before the US seized the territory. Her statue is a reminder to legislatures of the history and traditions that Hawaii values. The security staff was aloha welcoming and referred me an office on the forth floor to gather information. I picked up a pamphlet and met a nice gentleman that encouraged me to look at the views from the fifth floor. Oh wow! The views are spectacular. Picnic tables on the upper level provide employees to have a unique lunch area. There is a snack shop in the basement that offers mainly prepackage foods and beverages. There are restroom facilities on each floor. Security checks ID and scans belongings. I took the bus, so I'm. not sure about public parking. This is an extraordinary building and a must see if you relish history. A visit can be coupled with a visit to Iolani Palace next door and other historic building within a short walk. read more

See all

Landmark in Honolulu, Hawaii... Maybe I'm biased because I used to work here "back in the day" as a Student Helper in the Legislative Reference Bureau Library... The three librarians, two clerks, two other Student Helpers, and I were based in the "dungeon" - also known as the Chamber Level - in the basement - which had no windows... At least we had air conditioning! There are many ways to enter the State Capitol. People who park underground would enter from the Chamber Level. Pedestrians would enter from the Street Level where there's a Rotunda. In each corner of the building is a numbered "Core" with an elevator. Currently, the State Capitol has wooden barriers around it because of a renovation project. There is a "moat" around the perimeter. The water in the "moat" was leaking down into the offices, I believe. The water has been removed. Today, 4.27.24, was Take Back Day when expired prescription medication could be dropped off on the Beretania Street side. It was quick and efficient. Workers approached each vehicle and carried a cardboard box. I dropped my bag of containers into the box and drove off. Easy! read more

See all

! Hawaii State Capitol Building ! Location: 415 South Beretania St., Downtown Honolulu Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:45 AM to 4:30 PM I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Hawai'i State Capitol for Official business at the office of the Lieutenant Governor to have some documents apostilled. This impressive building not only serves as a hub for Hawaii's governance but also offers stunning architecture and sweeping views of downtown Honolulu. It stands five stories tall, housing the vital chambers where both the executive and legislative branches work. The facility also hosts public galleries and rotating exhibits that showcase Hawaii's rich cultural and political history, adding an educational twist to each visit. (They are so nice!!) I managed to take numerous photos of the Lieutenant Governor's office--be sure to check them out! While this trip was for business, I'm already planning to return as a tourist to fully absorb everything this landmark has to offer. Parking is conveniently available with a dedicated garage, including spots for charging electric vehicles, which was a significant plus for me. Before entering, you'll go through a security checkpoint. I wasn't the least bit apprehensive, about this part. The guards were incredibly friendly and accommodating, which made the experience smooth and welcoming. The Senate and House of Representatives chambers are open to the public, allowing anyone interested to observe the legislative process in action. Whether you're there for official reasons or just exploring, the Hawai'i State Capitol is a notable spot in Honolulu that you shouldn't miss. It's not just a place for politics; it's a center of civic pride and a testament to our state's history and culture. I highly encourage you to visit, soak it all up, and share in the experience! read more

See all

Enyoyed the Art in the Capitol. Mixture of statues, paintings and sculpture were found in legislators and senators offices. Some politicians did not all invite the public to view their offices. The elevators were pretty quick even with all of the people at the event. Bathrooms were available to the public on the 2nd to 4th floors. Various soap choices from floral to neutral types. read more

See all

Did a touristy view of the capitol and enjoyed visiting here. They are open to tours and have art displayed. Some politicians allow the tourists to say hello and view their offices. read more

The Hawaii State Capitol is in the style of "Hawaiian international architecture", which is an American adaption of Bauhaus style. The building also has features which symbolize various aspects of Hawaii. Some examples include: * The building is surrounded by a reflecting pool, symbolizing the Pacific Ocean. * The two legislative chambers are cone-shaped, symbolizing the volcanoes that formed the Hawaiian Islands. * The columns around the perimeter of the building have shapes resembling royal palm trees. There are eight columns in four rows at either side of the building to represent the eight main islands. * The Capitol is built with an open-air design, with a central atrium, which allows the elements to enter; and there are four planters in the atrium for kukui trees--the Hawaii state tree. While I appreciate the architectural elements of the building, my exploration of the grounds was less than impressive. For example: * Barriers were erected around the capitol in 2021, in response to FBI warnings about potential civil protest. Although "decorated", a wooden fence remains. * The reflecting pool was drained. * The planters in the atrium were empty, as the trees had died. I understand that building maintenance in tropical environments is a lot of work. But frankly, a simple power wash alone would go a long way to clean the place up and make it look more impressive. read more

See all

The Hawaii state capitol building is my favorite of all the US state capitols. My father took me here for my 14th birthday. It was, still is, one of my favorite family trips of all time. I love Architecture, water features & atriums, especially an open atrium, and this very unique building has them all epically rolled into one super simple design that still reigns supreme. I won't wax poetic too much about Hawaii, as it's already known as one of the most beautiful places in the world, but the views from this Capitol are indeed epic. My hubby's sister went there, never came back. She loves living in Hawaii, Aloha! Bucket list worthy. #1 favorite. Highest Recommendations. read more

I haven't been here for a while. Governor's Office posted on Instagram about Chili and Dessert Fundraiser for the Hawaii Food Bank. This event was located on the 5th floor. Food was chili rice, chili dog, and hot dog. Dessert was cookies, cupcakes that was made by the First Lady, and corn bread. Drinks include water and other. My co-workers and I got to see the new benches where you can eat your lunch and even chill. read more

Hawaii State Capitol - Chili Sale for Hawaii Foodbank - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

It's been decades since I've roamed the hallways of the Hawaii State Capitol. The last time I can remember going to the State Capitol was for a field trip when I was in elementary school decades ago, and I feel nothing has changed, at all. The structure, the design, the interior and exterior, the outer pool that feels like a moat surrounding a fort or stronghold, the slow elevators, the layout, the exceeding high wooden doors and ceiling, and etc. all feels like you time traveled back 50 years since it was built. On this visit, I had to hand deliver some forms to the Lieutenant Governors office. Parking is very easy and close by at the Iolani Palace. It's all metered stalls that only accepts quarters for 15 minutes per. Waking up the steps and into the courtyard, the place was completely empty. Do any government employees work here? There's no clear signs or a building directory that you can easily locate, but I managed to find the elevators and the directory at the corner of the structure. The directory is in a dark corner next to the elevators with no lightning and not updated. You literally need a flashlight to see clearly. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor's offices are on the top floor. The hallways are so wide and clean! The staff in the lieutenant governor's office are very friendly and helpful. The office is clean and organized and very comfortable. The Hawaii State Capitol is definitely a nice place to visit, and sit and relax if it's convenient and with nothing happening there. read more

See all

We arrived on the island on a Sunday so unfortunately the capitol was closed for the day. We walked around the grounds so we could see the architecture and the pools. Everything is very well done. read more

Hawaii State Capitol - Front - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Can you imagine that before our current State Capitol was built, the 'Iolani Palace once served as our statehouse? It really did...Afterall, Hawai'i didn't become the 50th State until 1959 and thanks to Governor John A. Burns (Hawai'i's SECOND Governor), this building was built by 1969. I remember seeing this building being constructed and when it was completed my family went to tour it. Whenever we pass by, I'm in awe of its architecture and how it represents our islands (symbolically and as seat of our State Government). So, the other day while my husband and I were walking about downtown Honolulu getting our exercise, we stopped by to get some pictures and to continue our admiration of this award-winning structure. Our State Capitol building is architecturally unique to in comparison to other State Capitol structures. Most State Capitol buildings resemble our Nation's Capitol. If you pause and take a look around this building you'll see that its architectural features symbolize Hawai'i's natural aspects. - There is a reflecting pool (often entangled in high maintenance costs as algae grows and must be cleaned routinely) that surrounds the building as it represents the Pacific Ocean. - The two branches of Legislature (Senate and House of Representatives) chambers are conically-shaped to represent volcanos that formed our islands. - The Capitol is built with an open-air design which allows the sunlight, wind and air to come through. - Its central atrium opens to the sky and you can often see rainbows inside the building when it rains. It is said that the open central atrium allows the sky to be a natural dome or rotunda. - There are 8 columns in 4 rows at either side of this building. The significance of the number 8 is the representation of the number of our major islands that form the Hawaiian Islands archipelago. - The columns are designed to look like royal palm trees as they form the perimeter of this building. - There are four kukui nut trees that also are a numerical reference as they refer to the 4 main counties in the State of Hawaii. There are sets of 4 items throughout this building. As we walked around and further admired this building we couldn't help but notice the huge State Seals hanging above at the entrance and rear of this building. On the lower outer circle of our State Seal the motto reads "Ua mau ke ea o ka aina i ka pono" which means "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness". It is befitting that our State Capitol bear these great seals as it houses our lawmakers. Other monuments that we noticed (as well as some tour busses that come by to view) are the statues of Father Damien or Saint Damien of Moloka'i, Queen Lili'oukalani, the Korean and Vietnam War Memorial and an exact replica of the Liberty Bell. If you're in the area, you should take the time to take in the beauty of this building with its Hawaiian-inspired architecture, no matter what your political views are. read more

See all

Having visited the Washington State Capitol in Olympia earlier this year, I have to say that my home state's capitol is a bit disappointing. From afar, the building makes for a nice photo. However, you do see the flaws as you walk up close. I visited here on a Saturday to take some pictures. This is a good day to visit because the capitol is closed so it won't be as hard to take a picture with tourists, lobbyists and politicians getting in the way. The lawn is decently maintained, but I did notice that the grounds in Olympia were much nicer despite being significantly larger. There was no ugly looking fencing like the Hawaii State Capitol has on the makai side heading towards Iolani Palace. Inside the rotunda of the Capitol, I noticed that the trash receptacles were filled to the top with trash. There were some hand written signs. Not sure for what, but probably regarding the current gay marriage debate. I would have expected that there would have been state capitol janitorial staff to dispose of it rather than leave it out for the public to see. It makes the capitol seem so unkempt to me. Despite my qualms, I think the Capitol is worth a visit for its civic importance. The open air design and rotunda shape are unique. If you are heading downtown to see Iolani Palace and the King Kamehameha statue, you might as well visit the Capitol too since it is just down the block. read more

See all

The Hawaii State Capitol has been around since the 1970's, when Governor John Burns dedicated the building in 1969. Since then, this state building has been a landmark and source of politics in the state of Hawaii. I've come to know the Hawaii State Capitol over the years, growing up in Honolulu and currently adulting. We've previously had field trips touring the inside where the State House and Senate conduct their proceedings and hearings. This is where majority of the laws we abide by on a daily basis are introduced and debated before it becomes law by the Governor. I've been priviledged to be able to attend various functions inside the Capitol over the years for work related events. These days, I would see the Hawaii State Capitol and the unique architecture on my daily commute to and from work. The area itself is basically a transfer station for public transportation, so commuters use this the Hawaii State Capitol as a landmark reference. Sometimes, I would visit both Iolani Palace and the Hawaii State Capitol on some Sundays. Much like a community park, the Hawaii State Capitol provides a place of inspiration and a place to rest and relax, while promoting the sense of place and community that Hawaii provides. Sometimes, I would come here because it is quiet and it helps me with generating ideas for my yelp reviews. Sometimes, community parks and various Starbucks locations doesn't help drive such needed inspiration. The Hawaii State Capitol is the next best thing for me. I usually spend about 1-2 hours here at the Hawaii State Capitol on any given Sunday afternoon before I headed home. Most of the time, there's usually nothing going on here when I come visit. It is a place to help clear my mind and a place to help me write. For the most part though, there are self-guided tours that are available from 9am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday, year round. Only the House and Senate galleries are not included in the tour. Visitors can report to room 415 for more information about the self-guided tour and a pamphlet. I recommend it to anyone and everyone who wishes to know more about the building. The architecture is unique amongst the state capitols of the United States. It's the only one that has a reflecting pool that circumnavigates the building, which symbolizes the ocean - as we are an island state. The building is open air, so the natural elements can whisk in and out of the building with ease. The two cones that is the Legislative chambers symbolizes the two volcanoes that created the Hawaiian islands. I recommend coming for anyone who wishes learn more about the Hawaii State Capitol through their legislative processes. I've toured the Capitol in my younger days and it's pretty cool to see things in action. The overall experience here at the Hawaii State Capitol was quite inspirational, educational, and thought provoking. Whether your first time here is through a school field trip or passing through, you'll marvel at this building and think we're lucky to live here in Hawaii. Situated at the gateway to downtown Honolulu and Chinatown, the capitol can be located at 415 South Beretania Street. Can't really miss it. There's no admission to walk around the grounds of the capitol, which is nice. As far as parking goes, there are public parking spots here to be found, although you'll likely to find it in metered parking nearby or at the Iolani Palace parking lot, although you're not supposed to park there. There's private paid parking garages as well. If you are like me, many public bus routes stop in front of the Hawaii State Capitol, fronting Punchbowl and S Beretania Streets, next to the State Department of Health, if you're heading westbound. If going eastbound towards Ala Moana, there's a stop on S King Street across the street from the Hawaii State Library. Get off there and walk 2 blocks to see the Hawaii State Capitol building. It's a chance to see government in action, if it's your thing. If not, it's a place to relax and see the world in the rearview mirror. 5.0 stars for government in action. 5.0 stars for being the inspiration I needed when Starbucks and community parks wouldn't do. Support local! A++ read more

Brought keiki here on a blue sky Sunday afternoon. Keiki day was super busy and intense muggy heat. We visited around 50 different booth that catered toward kids and family. Rock wall climbing, repel down a 2 story scaffolding, bounce house and many keiki games. Left there with 2 seedlings for mom. Tomato and cucumber starter mom will enjoy nurturing. Thank you! There was an EMS display where you can go into an ambulance and check out the cramped equipped area. Christian gave us the grand tour and we discussed the benefits of becoming an EMS as a stepping stone to be a nurse, fire fighter or paramedic. Seemed keiki was more focused on the bounce house than our convo.lol Yes bleeding, hurt, going through a heart attack? Take the extra effort to thank the EMS people that helped you. Found out it is rare if they ever hear from the people they have helped or rescued. Awwww Heard from another EMS person 2 hours before we arrived a shabby guy was waving around a machete and he got shot. Wow, crazy! Food booths smelled great and glad keiki ate before showing up. Lots of fried foods available. Tip: use restroom before going since Only porta potty available and lets avoid that. Spent about 2 hours there and glad we wore sunscreen. Passed about 4 water stations but @ room temp. Fun day! read more

See all

Located here in beautiful Honolulu, the capitol was commissioned and dedicated by Governor John Burns, who was Hawaii's second governor. Officially opened in1969 to replace the former statehouse, Iolani Palace. There are several monuments that surrounds the building. On the Beretania Street entrance, there is the Liberty Bell which was a gift from the President and Congress to the Territory of Hawai'i in 1950. Another is a statue of (Father)Saint Damien. Across the street you will find the Eternal Flame. A metal sculptured torch memorial that burns endlessly as a tribute to all men and women from Hawaii who served with the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines and Navy. On the Richard Street side, you will find the Korean-Vietnam War Memorial which pays tribute to service members who died in those conflicts. Next to these memorials you will find the Peace Tree. A tree that was planted on Sept. 21st, 2011, the day that Hawai'i became the first state to recognize Peace Day. Finally on the mall side of the building you will find a statute of Hawai'i last monarch, Queen Liliuokalani. Through it all, this capitol needs an overhaul. Elevators breakdown constantly, the reflecting pound has too much algae and leaks to the chamber level below, the place is not secured, the tiles are falling, and the cement is cracking near the pond. There's more that needs to be worked on but that would mean I'll have to stay and wrote my novel.. read more

See all

Number 46 on my overall Nationwide State Capitol tours. parking was not easy. You basically just have to find a place on the street and be prepared with a credit card or quarters. Some of the parking meters don't take credit cards. We also could park nearby at the palace but that parking should be reserved for guests visiting the Palace instead. it's easy to walk up to this very unique building. You can come in from any angle. It's designed to be very open and one can just walk through whereas the only way to access the actual offices are through the elevators at every corner, or the galleries for the Senate and House of Representatives on each side. it was difficult to find out where to begin but we went up to the governor's office on the 5th floor who then directed us down to the public affairs office on the 4th floor. they gave us a brochure and noted that the tour guide had died recently and therefore they were not able to give a tour at this time. They noted we could wander around every space as it was open to the public but the galleries for both chambers of the legislature were closed When they were not in session. That was a bit disappointing since I really wanted to get some good pictures. They noted we could come back next week and pop in when the legislature was in session and they were open at a certain time for pictures. I pondered why they didn't have them open to the public for people to view but the public official noted that there just wasn't enough money in the budget for security to leave the doors unlocked. I can understand that. So this building is very unique in architecture and the spires are supposed to represent palm trees and a very open accessway to represent open government. Four stars though because of difficult parking, lack of access to the immense galleries, and overall not a lot of history. Hardly any portraits. Walls were bare in the hallways and the building does look a bit dated. Yes most of the state capitol buildings are so much older but for some reason this building it's just looking really dated. Sometimes things constructed over 100 years ago look better than things that were constructed 50 years ago. It's funny how that works. read more

To mourn the 2010 opening of the Legislature, I will review the horrid building that these goof-balls sit in. One of the best examples of brutal Hawaii "concrete monstrosity" architecture. This eyesore of a 1970's building has the smell of disgusting algae infested water around it on a hot summer day. Most of the "modern" government architecture in Hawaii lacks the grandeur and individual classical beauty or the modern style of most large cities. This is one of the glaring examples of that. The meeting rooms are always too small for any meeting and many of the attendees have to stand in the hallways. There are some nice things about it though, like the giant tile mosaic or the statues of Fr. Damien and Queen Liliuokalani. The open nature of the place leads many to be able to just voice their view(s) right up into the offices of the Governor, which usually is not the case in other states. I wonder why they didn't try to fashion it in the style like the colonial Hawaiian-style Iolani Palace, the HiSAM building, or the building in front of the palace where the Kamehameha stature sits. I understand the symbolism of the whole place, but you would think that they could have molded something that has nice Hawaiian kine form and function. read more

The state capital is a beautiful building and a great place for protestors to gather in the cool center under the sky. The Senate and House chambers are beautiful woth its koa benches, nautilus shell chandelier and tapestry hanging. It is centrally located in historic Honolulu. Most people are very friendly and helpful, as I had to deal.with a name change, and verification of some documents. read more

See all

The 4th graders went on a field trip here last Friday. I think they enjoyed it. We were able to get a tour of each side of the capitol; house and senate. They learned about the architect and how one side represents the sea and moon, and how the other side represents the land and sun. The pillars represents palm trees, too. Senator Sam Slom spoke to the class and shared some of his stories about his work. At the end, they visited the governor's office and took pictures! Queeny, the lady who did the tour was GREAT! read more

The building is under a bit of construction related to the water feature, but this is literally the friendliest group of people on the planet. Beautiful building, highly recommend stopping by to see the uniqueness of Hawaii in a common feature such as State Capitol Buildings read more

CONS: Mold in the ventilation system IS a problem and usually results in mass illness during the legislative session, meeting room are generally too spartan and small, and the parking garage seems dimly lit and vaguely dangerous. PROS: The architecture is both beautiful and unique-reminiscent of a volcano, the halls are wide and easy to walk-even when it's crowded, the ground level is definitely one of the best places for constituent rallies of any capitol I've been to-voices from it echo into every legislative office, and nothing beats watching a light rain come down onto the blue center tile from the lanai's of the capitol interior. BONUS: This is the only state capitol in the nation with no actual, physical dome. Beautifully, this capitol building's "dome" is represented by the open sky. read more

Hawaii State Capitol - Front view of the Hawaii State Capitol Building. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I went to a conference at the State Capitol last year (Ready to Run). It's somewhat confusing if you've never been there. The Capitol is surrounded by water on all sided, but the entrance. I read that this is supposed to symbolize the island of Oahu, and the ocean surrounding it. That, if you stand back and look at it from afar, it looks to be a volcano shape. Personally, I don't see it. But, I can appreciate the symbolism. Anyhow, when you get to the entrance (walk straight towards it from the bus line, and if you find street parking you might have to walk all the way around), you enter the main level. There is an elevator on the side. You can go up (towards offices and such) or down (to the conference center). The water is murky and there isn't much for a tourist to do there but snap some pictures, but it's symbolic, interesting in design and a place of great importance for the State of Hawaii. It's worth a look when you're walking through downtown on your way to Iolani Palace. Not to mention, close to come great restaurants if you want to grab a bite to eat. read more

See all

Beautiful grounds and nice Sheriff's Department personnel. The Capitol is a cozy space for tourists and locals, since the Legislative chambers are open to the public and our members of the House and Senate are widely available for meet-and-greets, and other professional settings. Proud to know many members of this legislative body, and happy that the Capitol is so widely available to the public. Tax payers appreciate this! read more

If you have never visited the Hawaii State Capitol, this is a must at least once in your lifetime. The Hawaii State Capitol is only one of two in the entire United States with an open capitol. Which means it's not an enclosed building and very accessible to the public. Situated in central Honolulu, who can miss this beautiful building located next to Iolani Palace. The capitol contains the offices to local elected legislators including the House of Representatives, the Senate, Lieutenant Governor and the Governor of the State. Parking: There is metered parking available to the public underground of the capitol. Parking entrance is on Punchbowl St. across from Queen's Medical Center. Meters will allow you to park for 4 hours. The first two hours is $0.25 every 15 minutes. Alternate metered parking is located on Iolani Palace grounds. Do not park at any parking that is not metered, you will get a ticket or may get towed. Tours: Capitol tours are free to the public and there are specific dates and times you can sign up for on the Governor's official website. Great to go if you want to learn about the history of the capitol and also may give access to Senate and House Chambers. Self Tour: You can also give yourself a self tour of the capitol. First go to the fourth floor's Governor's office to grab a pamphlet before you do! If your meter still has time, I suggest you walk across the street towards downtown Honolulu and go the the Hawaii State Art Museum also free to the public. If you live in Hawaii, please take the time to visit your legislators and voice your concerns as their decisions affect you directly as well as your pockets! read more

Beautiful building landmark. Love the water surrounding and the fish but water isn't kept up very well with all the algae. Busy busy office going on right now. I came at the right time because it's quieter right now. read more

Hawaii State Capitol - Serenity in water - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Quick tip: As of February 2019, guided public tours are not available until a new guide is hired. read more

Hawaii State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

We came here for a planned rally. I asked security where I could use the rest room. They directed me to the state library. Which was abit of a walk, Especially if you really, really need a restroom. After my return, I found out that they do have restrooms downstairs, on the premises. Thanks for not letting a senior use them. Talk about humanity. read more

This is a great place to come together. Whether to listen to legislation and legislators. To rally for a cause/change. Or for an event. Bathrooms are not on the ground floor but they're around on different floors. Theyres a snack shop w beverages. And public parking is nearby for a fee, can use your card. This place is pretty user friendly and open after you've been there once you remember the building forever. read more

See all

One of the most aesthetically pleasing buildings in Honolulu, the state Capitol has an open air graceful architecture. It is like the columns are coconut trees, the surrounding pond, the ocean. The mosaic in the rotunda is immaculately restored. The open air middle frames the sky so majestically. I love this building. I was most impressed by the electric car charging station in the basement. Where others just park, this car was charging their battery. Now I remember when a certain City council person charged her electric buggy at Honolulu Hale. She got into deep trouble then. Not here! This one is paid by credit card. So like I said on the picture caption, charge your car and get your mileage card charged too! Cool! Yelp 365 Challenge: 100/365 read more

See all

The first time I went to the Hawaii State Capitol, I couldn't figure out how to get inside, and eventually just left and went home. (smacks head) Don't judge! If you don't know how, it can be confusing! I contemplated giving the Hawaii State Capitol 5 STARS just for being an awesome lock-down defense structure, but thought I should rate them on more than the ability to help us survive the zombie apocalypse. There are two sets of elevators on the "ground" floor, which is where most people enter the building. (There's parking underneath on the Chamber level for the Legislators, but your average Joe comes in on ground level.) The reason I gave the Hawaii State Capitol four awesome stars is that the legislators here are very open and welcoming to the people. You can visit your Senator or Representative, and talk to them one-on-one about issues that you think are important. (As a former teacher, mine tend to mostly be Education related, but I digress.) Living on Oahu, you know that it's a small world. These aren't just politicians--they're your neighbors, your friends, your aunties--and that really means something here. The ability to go and talk story with these elected officials is what makes the government worthwhile, and I hope that more and more people continue to do so. I docked a star because of parking. I recently attended Opening Day, and was late to the festivities because I was driving around for 45 minutes looking for parking. I'm serious: I timed it. I didn't actually find parking, and had someone park my car for me. We need to have free access to government, to make sure that our voices are heard, and I believe that some sort of review of the parking procedures for going to the Capitol should be done. In summary, I recommend this place. If you have an issue, go talk about it. Your voice really does make a difference! (That is, if you can find parking...) read more

Seriously- People want to Yelp and know about the StateCapitol- not just teacher dorks like myself that want to know about Opening Sessions that have a kick off day at the near beginning of every year - or that the Gov sits up at the top on the 5th floor- meetings are usually held in the basement ground floors as the real ground floor is the open artysy area that looks like the volcano. 2nd 3rd and 4th floors starts the leg offices. Great capitol as far as buildings goes - open air which does Hawaii Justice. Make sure that you stop by the Father Damien Statue and the Queen Liliokalani Statue in the back. Worthwhile art. read more

This building is interesting architecturally, both inside and out. It's adjacent to Iolani Palace and there's a statue of Queen Liliuokalani on the side nearest the palace that's worth a stop. You can see the chambers from the street level or take the elevator downstairs. When you're in the center of the building (outside), make sure to loop up. It's a great perspective. Downstairs, inside the building is also interesting. We were there to see a student art show along the internal walls in the downstairs level. read more

This is one of the many Icons Of Honolulu. The building is in the shape of Volcano cinder cone. There are many symbols through out the building. The Capitol Building is where all the laws for the State Of Hawaii are formed, Drafted, and Passed. The Hawaii State Legislature is much like the U.S. Congress. There are both the House Of Representatives and The Senate. There are 51 members of the House Of Representatives. It is lead by the Speaker Of The House. There are 25 member of The Senate. It is lead by the Senate President. The Governor's Office and The Lieutenant Governor's office are located in the same building. If you have a chance drop by and visit the Capitol, You never know who might see down here! read more

Lets face it - you really don't come here unless you work here, need to visit your representatives office or are trying to execute a name change. Today we were trying to to achieve the last feat. Parking is actually pretty good. You park in back of Iolani Palace. You will need quarters for the parking meter. 15 minutes for every quarter - an hour should work for most visits. I actually find the lobby very relaxing with the courtyard and surrounding pond. In the center is a glass tile mural by the late Tadashi Sato (my uncle). The tiles are from Mexico and they were selected for their vibrant color. You look up and you can see the clouds drift by the open ceiling. I am a little bit of a hallowed halls nerd ,so I think it is cool. For any of you needing a name change take the elevator to the top floor and the Lt Governors Office - it is on the west side of the building. Make sure you have all your documentation with you because you really don't want to come back multiple times like I did. :) Name Change Form - typed, notarized and signed in black ink. 1 original set with 5 copies of page 11 &12. Social Security Card and Passport or Drivers License or Birth Certificate. Just make sure your Birth Certificate was issued to you within 90 days of your request - yes I am serious. Anyhow you get the drift :) Then pay your $50 dollars via cashiers check or money order made out the The Office of The Lt. Governor ...and wait to get the call it has been executed :) read more

Didn't get a chance to go inside, but the architecture of the building is interesting. There are also statues in the front and back of the main lobby area, and the Liberty Bell that was given to the state by the US government. read more

Hawaii State Capitol - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

8/1/2014 Suspicious Package placed in capitol at approx. 9:40am. there was caution tape around the garage for a couple hours. All clear now read more