Have you played Animal Crossing: New Horizons?…read more Stay with me here. Because while this wasn't the first place I'd ever seen the iconic statue of King Kamehameha I (also known as Kamehameha the Great), my brain absolutely went, "Oh hey, my island museum decor!" the second I saw it in real life. Yes, I'm that person who unknowingly recreated a culturally significant landmark next to Blathers. I hadn't plan to see this statue while I was on Oahu but shoutout to my waifu Sheryl M. for the spontaneous detour. She hadn't seen it in person either, so it turned into one of those unexpectedly wholesome "Wait, this is actually kind of special" moments. Bonus: I also got introduced to a Hawaiian plover (tiny, adorable, and clearly the main character of the day). The statue stands proudly in front of Aliʻiōlani Hale, and here's where things get interesting: - The statue you see there is actually a replica. - "There are four Kamehameha Statues: One on Oahu, two on the Big Island - in HiIo & North Kohala, and another one in Washington DC at the US Capitol." - As per Bruddah Fran C. (go add him)! - The original statue had a whole dramatic backstory: It was cast in Europe, lost in a shipwreck, then later recovered (yes, ocean salvage arc), and eventually placed elsewhere in Hawaii. - The statue wasn't designed to accurately reflect Kamehameha's true appearance. It was westernized, which... yeah. A little side-eye moment. Even with that context, there's something undeniably powerful about seeing it in person. The stance, the gesture, the presence... It hits differently when you're standing right there. Would I recommend stopping by? Honestly, yes. It's quick, it's meaningful, and it's one of those spots that sneaks up on you. Embrace life and spontaneity.

Aliʻiōlani Hale is the Hawaii state supreme court building located behind the King Kamehameha…read morestatue. The statue of Kamehameha the Great, known as the first king of Hawaii, was astounding. It's said that Kamehameha unified the Hawaiian Islands under his rule. ,

Aloha Towers is a historic lighthouse that stands near Pier 9 on the Honolulu Harbor. The structure…read morewas designed by Arthur Reynolds and construction was completed in 1926. The style of this unusual lighthouse is Gothic Revival with a strong Art Deco influence. This iconic structure once housed the harbor navigation master, responsible for directing ships into and out of the Harbor. A massive Howard clock tells accurate time on the lighthouse. I took an early morning walk around the lighthouse with my daughter. The structure appears to be undergoing some rehab as the entrance was boarded up. A large plaque tells the building's history with several interesting photos. In the past, visitors could ascend to a 10th floor observation deck and view the harbor. Today, the building is closed to visitors, but is a central focal point of the Marketplace. The Marketplace houses restaurants and shops which were not open during my visit. The lighthouse was a fun discovery for me, but would have been more impactful if the observation deck was still open to visitors. We found parking about two blacks away in a metered lot. There is no charge to walk around the base of the tower.

Towering landmark…read more.. At 99 and going close to 100 years old it's still shows proudly the Aloha Spirit going strong as to this day mom remembers vividly seeing this tower greet her as she arrived with dad to Hawai'i and to this day is one of the prominent structure easily viewed in many directions though in the past the observation deck gave you the stunning views the Oahu shoreline provides it now is closed and is just majestically stands there to welcome all with Aloha. You can find the tower easily right besides some shops and currently Old Spaghetti Factory and even Aloha Tower Luau "Ka Moana Luau" which offers a buffet dinner provided by Chart House along with a beautiful undisturbed view of the waterfront and evening sunset. Thank you!

Historical building with beautiful architecture and a spacious garden. It was closed today so we…read moreweren't able to enter. This is the Royal palace for King Kamehameha and other royals until 1893. This is an easy walk from the piers if you are on a cruise. The Monkey Pod trees are huge and spacious. The grounds are well kept.

Palace Fact: The U.S. has exactly one official royal palace and it's Iolani Palace!…read more Cue me and my impeccable timing. We popped by ʻIolani Palace on a Saturday, fully unaware that they close at 4:00 PM. And yes, we just missed them. Pain. Tragedy. A royal-level fumble. We had wandered over after visiting the statue of King Kamehameha I across the street, so at least the vibe was still immaculate. Even from the outside, the palace is stunning, grand, elegant, and carrying that quiet weight of history that makes you instinctively lower your voice a little. Shoutout to Nadine C. for dropping the knowledge that this is the only royal palace in the United States. Let that sink in. Not a mansion. Not a "former estate." A palace palace. A little context moment because it makes standing there hit different: This was the royal residence of Hawaiian monarchs starting with Kamehameha III in 1845, and later home to Queen Liliʻuokalani, who was ultimately overthrown and even imprisoned here in 1893. It's also the second palace built on this site, which somehow makes it feel even more layered, like history stacked on history. Today, it's a designated National Historic Landmark and honestly? I'm a little mad at myself for not planning better because I know the inside tour is going to be incredible. Guess I'll just have to come back and do it properly. Next time, we check the website and respect the hours. Lesson learned.

The Princess Ruth Keelikolani Building in downtown Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, at 830 Punchbowl Street,…read moreis home to state government offices including the Industrial Relations Office, State Department of Labor, and Hawaii Department of Taxation (state tax office). There are other offices in there as well as where those who have applied for and been approved to test for Hawai'i Notary Public by the Attorney General. The building is named after Princess Ruth Ke'elikōlani Keanolani Kanāhoahoa of the founding dynasty of the Kingdom of Hawaii and the former Royal Governor of the Island of Hawaii. She was quite an interesting lady and I'd encourage you to do a study if you're not familiar with her! Upon immediate entry there is security that requires patrons to present photo identification. Everyone has been friendly and happy to direct you to where you are looking to go. The atrium in the center is nice and the building is quite clean. Bathrooms are easy to access and there are strategically placed hand sanitizer stands throughout the building if that's your thing. There is street parking directly in front of the building, and a parking garage directly across the street for convenience, too! Little note, the parking garage only accepts cash. There is an ATM on the bottom floor of the building. There is also a little grab and go snack shop on the bottom floor. It looked well to stocked and I should have taken a few photos; my bad! Lots of people, everyone nice and friendly and even with all the traffic it didn't feel crowded at all.

A giant wave... It…read moregot me at "hello" whenever I drive up and down Waiakamilo Road and you just can't miss it though it's behind a chained fenced surrounded by parked cars you can never really get a clear view of it but this stunning work of art is something so worth seeing or at least drive by it for a closer look. I'm clueless of the details like my friend Nadine C but know that it's always so stunning to get a quick glance at regardless and I did have that chance as I was dropping off some cans for recycling and to see that it was located right next to the wall which was really cool. Whatever reasons you may find yourself here, as a crafter I appreciate the joy it brings to everyone and hope that it stays there forever and ever. Thank you!

Only in Honolulu…read more.. On a little Hawaiian island named O'ahu, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is the World's Largest Wave Mural! Standing 5 stories high, this 14,000 square foot masterpiece was created by Hilton Alves from Brazil. It took him just 8 days to complete on October 26, 2013. However, 6 months of planning,150 gallons of paint, and $10,000 (for supplies) went into it! This Landmark in Kalihi, on the corner of Waiakamilo and Kalani Streets, reminds me of the Angel Wings project by Colette Miller. Colette has artwork all over the world, and so does Hilton Alves. While Ms. Miller reminds us that "We are the angels of the earth", Mr. Alves has more of an environmental theme and has educational projects which call upon children in our communities to get involved. There are about 11 wave murals in 5 different cities and 3 countries! For more information, visit the website: TheArtOfHilton.com Aloha!

An interesting tour of the history of the Hawaii judicial system. Houses the Hawaii Supreme Court…read moreand a law library. The tour guide has soo much information and it took about 3 hours to really see and read everything. It will feel like you have stepped back into time. Bring as little with u as possible because u need to go through a metal detector. It is just easier when u just carry a small bag like I did into a high security building. Bring quarters for the parking meters. Take a stall with shade so your car won't be too hot when u return to your car.

This was a surprise for the wife and boy was she. The area was very clean and there was an…read moreinformation plaque on the ground explaining about the statue. The building was nice.

It's been a number of years since we've traveled to Philadelphia, PA to visit Independence National…read moreHistoric Park which features Independence Hall, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution and nearby, is the iconic Liberty Bell. The Liberty Bell is a symbol of of the American Revolution and of the liberties gained as well as a reminder of liberties denied. To visit or view this symbol, visitors must pass through security gates and wait in line as National Park Rangers will allow small groups in at a time. What does this have to do with Hawa'i? While roaming around our State Capitol and its environs, I "discovered" two Liberty Bells. Did you even know that we had ONE? Apparently, in 1950, every State and Territory of the United States received a replica (gift) through a program developed by the United States Department of Treasury who with several private companies had contracted 55 full-sized replicas to be cast. This Liberty Bell is located on the front lawn (Beretania Street) of our State Capitol. It is an EXACT replica of the one in Philadelphia. The interesting story about this replica bell is that it was a gift from U.S. President Harry S. Truman and the U.S. Congress to the then, Territory of Hawai'i in 1950. It was presented on July 4th, 1950. The iconic gift symbolizes freedom and democracy. However, it's ironic why Hawai'i received a Liberty Bell because of the overthrow of its sovereign nation which was backed by economic and political pressures from the United States. You can actually get up close to this replica to read its inscription: "Proclaim LIBERTY Throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants thereof" LEV XXV. v.X . The inscription is a Biblical reference from the Book of Leviticus (25:10). A recent news story ran about this landmark at http://ksnt.com/2015/11/21/lost-piece-of-liberty-bell-replica-recovered-on-hawaii-beach/. It was unfortunate that an act of vandalism marred this symbol of Freedom and I hope that this plaque will soon be replaced. To me, even though this is a replica, The Liberty Bell still symbolizes the Freedoms that we gained as American Citizens. "Let Freedom Ring"!

Same as the flame. Just sitting in front of a building…read more Total skip. Just a copy of the real bell

Downtown Honolulu has so many Hawaiian landmark or historical gems. Many pass by without taking…read morethe time to see what may behind stone walls or fences. We have been amazed by past and recent "finds". Of course, when we roam about our neighborhood, we are respectful to the properties that we enter. That being said, over the years that we have come to the Kawaihao Church Annual Bazaars, we'd pass through its entrance gate and this masoleum without stopping to recognize its historical significance. The masoleum is and its surrounding garden is well-maintained. Democratic Process: THE PEOPLE'S CHOICE AND LEGISLATURE'S CHOICE. High Chief William Lunalilo was born with the Kamehameha lineage and was rightful heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Hawai'i succeeding King Kamehameha V. But, because King Kamehameha V had passed away in December 1872 without naming a successor and even though Lunalilo could've claimed his birthright to be King, Lunalilo chose to hold a special election. His challenger in this democratic process was High Chief David Kalākaua who was not of the bloodline. In 1873, William Lunalilo was elected by the people of Hawai'i and was crowned King. He was the first King of Hawai'i to have been unanimously voted in to reign by both the people and Legislature. Unfortunately, King Lunalilo's reign was cut short due to his early death at age 39. He reigned for only a little more than a year and did not name his successor. But, he changed the succession way of Hawai'i's Monarchs... they would be CHOSEN through democratic process. His last wishes was to buried on the grounds of Kawaihao Church where he felt closest to the common people who elected him to the throne. Apparently, he wanted to return the love to the people and be amongst them at Kawaiaha'o Church. All other Royals were interned at the Royal Masoleum at Nuuanu. The next time you're in the area, stop by to take in a bit of Hawaiian history along with the beauty of our island.

What a peaceful place this is. Although it seems to me that he had a sad life, he was loved and he…read moretruly stood up for what he believed. A man who definitely represented his people and it is very sad that his life and reign was cut short. How history could have changed if he had lived longer... William Charles Lunalilo was the sixth monarch and very popular during his reign. King Kamehameha V had preceded Lunalilo and had died without naming a successor. Lunalilo was appointed by a vote of the people over his opponent, David Kalakaua. He took the throne in January 1873 and his inauguration was held at Kawaiaha'o Church. He only ruled a little over one year when he passed away on 3 Feb. 1874 at 39 years old. His last wish was to be laid to rest near his people, and this is why his tomb stands on the grounds of Kawaiaha'o Church and not at the Royal Mausoleum. More history: - Lunalilo is the grandson of Kamehameha I's half-brother and is related to Kinau (one of Kamehameha's daughters) through his mother. His father Kanaina was a lower chief. - Once he had been engaged to Victoria Kamamalu, but the match was opposed by Kamehameha IV, so Lunalilo remained a bachelor. It is said that he died of tuberculosis and alcoholism. A twist on his resting place (rumor or truth?): slighted by the Kamehameha family over the final resting place of his mother's remains, Lunalilo insisted that he be buried in a tomb separate from the Royal Mausoleum; his resting place still stands inside the grounds of Kawaiaha`o Church. He left his property to create the Lunalilo Home, a place for the poor, elderly, and ailing Hawaiian people. - He amended the Constitution of 1864 and abolished property requirements for voting. - Lunalili unsuccessfully pursued a reciprocity treaty with the United States and withdrew a proposal to lease out Pearl Harbor when faced with public opposition. - Kamehameha IV sponsored a contest in 1860 for new national anthem. He wanted the lyrics to match the tune of "God Save the King." Lunalilo wrote the winning entry and was awarded 10 dollars. His song became the kingdom's new anthem. I found this and its pretty good info: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lunalilo

300 Ala Moana Blvd is where the US Federal Building named Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana'ole Building…read moresits. In and at this building sits all, and I mean ALL the federal departments. US Federal District Court, IRS, SSA, VA, TSA to name a few are homed here. Here are a few things you need to know 1- no Building or Facility parking! zip! zero! nada!. There are 2 municipal parking lots on the east side of Punchbowl Street. $2.00 per hour. There are street metered parking spaces so you need to bring your change; $.25 will do it @ $2.00 per hour. These parking meters are old. It does not accept credit cards. 2- Secured entrance to building now only on the south side of the building. (reduced from 3 entrances pre Pandemic) Best you have an appointment for the department you are visiting or you may have to wait outside until the crowd control says you can enter. Picture identification is required 3- Sundry Store on the ground floor is in sad shape and condition. Their A/C is out. Their coffee maker is broken and their refrigeration system is running warm.... 5- Cafeteria on the 5th floor has lost its luster. I used to love to eat there. The food used to be good and it was priced right. The Cafeteria was designed to service the federal employees, judges, attorneys, plaintiffs and others who have business within the Federal Building. But its not the greatest anymore. Menu has shrunk, coffee from Starbucks, no table service. You wait in the line like a cafeteria and you bus you own trays. So the bottom line is unless you have specific and definite business in the Federal Building, don't go there or go prepared.

Located at 300 Ala Moana Blvd in Honolulu and open 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday (except…read morefederal holidays) There is no parking available in the building for the general public. Metered street parking is nearby as well as paid parking garages are within walking distance to the building. I parked right across the street in the garage and it was $6 for four hours. There is a security checkpoint you must pass through as you enter the building. It was efficient and I was on my may. The building was well maintained, very clean and a lot of hustle and was bustle going on. I had some notary business to take care of which is what brought me to this building. The big boys in the building are are the U.S. District Court, U.S. Coast Guard, SSA, IRS, and Honolulu Passport Agency. There's a cafeteria on the fifth floor (M-F 6:15 a.m. to 2 p.m.), snack shop in the courtyard on the first floor (M-F 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), and vending machines throughout. There's also a credit union/ATM on the first floor, Rainbow Schools Childcare Center for the public and federal employees located on the first floor. The fitness center and health unit are only for federal employees. Located at 300 Ala Moana Blvd in Honolulu and open 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday (except federal holidays) There is no parking available in the building for the general public. Metered street parking is nearby as well as paid parking garages are within walking distance to the building. I parked right across the street in the Maka garage and it was $6 for four hours. It's important to note they are cash only. There is a security checkpoint (ADA accessible) you must pass through as you enter the building. (Think airport security) It was efficient and I was on my way. The building was well maintained, very clean and a lot of hustle and was bustle going on. I had some notary business to take care of which is what brought me to this building. The big boys in the building are are the U.S. District Court, U.S. Coast Guard, SSA, IRS, and Honolulu Passport Agency. There's a cafeteria on the fifth floor (M-F 6:15 a.m. to 2 p.m.), snack shop in the courtyard on the first floor (M-F 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), and vending machines throughout. There's also a credit union/ATM on the first floor, Rainbow Schools Childcare Center for the public and federal employees located on the first floor. The fitness center and health unit are only for federal employees.