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So I took TheBus (yes, that's what's it's called) to Queen Emma's Summer Palace. If you walk up the drive, through lush tropical garden's, there a very New England style cottage. This was the Queen's summer home. I bought my ticket for a docent guided tour in the little gift shop behind the house. I was the only one on the tour and received the most wonderful tour from Cheryl. The tour starts in the rear of the house and works towards the front. I learned about the house, which was built from a kit. I learned about Queen Emma and her family. And I learned many customs and accessories of the Royal Hawaiian family. Cheryl was knowledgable, answered my many questions and made the experience interesting and personal. I'd give her 10 stars. Queen Emma with her husband established medical care facilities for Hawaiian people in the late 1800s. Queens Hospital is named for her. The gardens outside the house are lovely. It was easy to see how a queen (or anyone) could love this little get-away on the hill. The staff is incredibly friendly. The house was preserved and is maintained by the Daughters of Hawai'i. Special programs and events are offered throughout the month. The site even hosts weddings. I guess the palace is a short drive from Honolulu, or an hour bus ride. They will ask you to cover your shoes before entering the home and not to touch anything. I don't think the tour or delicate antiques are suitable for small kids, but older children might enjoy. They offer a non-guided tour, but I highly recommend the guided tour. You can buy advance tickets on-line This is a great experience for history buffs. Plan an hour for your visit.
Finally got a chance to visit the Queen Emma's Summer Palace. I first heard of Queen Emma when I saw her portrait at Kawaiaha'o Church back in 2001 and I've slowly been making my way around the islands to check out places relevant to the Hawaiian monarchy. This summer palace is basically just a small house with some historic furniture and items from various Hawaiian royals as of the 1800's. Many items and places other than the main house were gone as this house was salted for demolition to make way for a baseball field. Luckily, a historic society was able to save this main house a week before demolition. My husband and I paid for a docent-led tour. There were a few other couples and we were all asked to remove our shoes and leave them outside before walking into the home. Although they do have booties upon request, make sure to wear socks if you are shy about walking barefoot in public. The docent was fairly knowledgeable about the royal family but couldn't always answer questions about some of the artifacts inside the house, specifically the various vessels in the dining room / guest room. I did feel like I came away with having learnt things I didn't already know. Overall, it was a short tour as the property is quiet small, but if you're interested in Hawaiian history, this is a place you should be visiting. Visited September 2024
So, I know I AM being BIAS but I am also saying it's 5 star because ITS BEAUTIFUL! It's located off the Pali Rd, so which means it's in the mountain region. With all the congested traffic, it's actually a really nice place to relax at. Most people automatically think of a HUGE BUILDING WITH ARCHES & HIGH DOORS. But this is Hawaii & Aloha Tower was the LARGEST building in the vvvvv for State up until the the late 60's. So, when we say summer palace, looks more like a BIG HOUSE with several bedrooms & whatnot. So DON'T BE ALARMED by how SMALL our palaces are. Just know, it's. A beautiful place to visit, especially during the early evening. We came here tonight for a Christmas Night hosted by Daughters of Hawaii Organization and several of AHS students (Aiea High School) who participated in this evenings celebration. This was their FIRST time making an event like this & hoping to continue it another year. Our son's friends were participating in it and were invited to attend. Unfortunately, we got stuck in traffic. It was TERRIBLE TODAY! Of ALL DAYS TOO! I mean it took us over an hour just to get from Aiea/FREEWAY to Likelike cut off. Guess everyone's going out for the Christmas celebrations. However, it was really wonderful and I'm glad we still made it in time to see the boys before they went home. We had a chance to look around the palace and see all the artifacts and admire the beautiful arrangements made for Christmas. We had the privilege to listen to a Harpist too! She did a wonderful job in playing such melodious music. Makes me want to learn the harp. Anywho, if you do visit, PLEASE DO SOME RESEARCH on your own to learn about the place and the mo'olelo of our King & Queen & Prince. It makes the visit much more enjoyable & memorable. Mahalo for looking and have a good one! TIGER CLAW: So it went missing for a while. A story was printed in the magazine about the Queen with her photo displayed. I. That photo she wore the Tiger claw necklace. A person on their way to Hawaii on HA for vacation, just so happened had read this article on the plane ride over. This person immediately recognized this piece of jewelry & thought: " was this the same as the one grandma has?! It CANT BE!" Upon their return home from vacation in Hawaii, they stumbled around the home looking for gramas piece of jewelry. Once in possession, they compared it to the magazine and found it to be SIMILAR & EXTREMELY IDENTICAL. However, how could this be the same jewelry?! Grandma had gotten it form a garage sale for a steal. This person called Bishop Museum to confirm the jewelry & moments later, the jewelry was in its way to the Palace to be authenticated. Eventually, IT WAS THE EXACT PIECE! (SO THE STORY WAS TOLD) But, you'll have to look it up yourself to be sure... Good Luck!
"Should I visit Queen Emma's Summer Place?" That depends. First reserve in advance the docent led tour. Small group (15 max). Cost more. Well worth it. The first impression will be "this is a palace??? My bedroom is twice the size as the queens. My living room is bigger than the 'grand ballroom'". Understanding that missionaries made the alii of Hawaii want everything European subsequently led to lumber, plaster, concrete, even furniture and a piano to be shipped to the islands and literally discard their culture makes you think. Hearing stories of the want to be part of the 19th century modern world was so great that foreigners were welcomed even if they brought diseases the indigenous people had no immunity to. Seeing the shoes of a child who died at age four a sad consequence. The tour is not haole bashing, "haole" as in all foreigners not just the lightly completed, just factual with artifacts all around you that reinforce whatever feelings you may have. Are said artifacts amazing? Yes, if put in the context of when and where they were made. You will find nicer koa bowls at a local craft fair but those of the palace are 150 years old. Online reservations suggested for self guided tours. They are required for docent led tours and sell out two to three weeks in advance. Plenty of free parking. So should you visit Queen Emma's Summer Palace? If you believe knowing history is important and are not afraid to experience feelings of melancholy, uneasiness, anger even guilt but value understanding it, then yes.
This is a place of beauty, wonder, and reverence...especially in the setting of the event "Mu'u at the Museum". And WOW, what an experience! It felt as if I've stepped back in time...ladies in vintage mu'umu'u strolling the gardens along the company of live musicians. There was a fashion show, hula, demonstration of horse lei making. My favorite was just to people watch, admire the absolute beauty of the variety of mu'umu'u. I was born and raised in California, thought of mu'umu'u along the lines of caftans and Filipino dusters (IYKYK). I couldn't be more wrong, and am excited to learn more. I think a proper docent-led tour is in order :-) Happy Mu'umu'u Month!
With only a few weeks left on Oahu I'm trying to see all the things left on my (long) list! Thankfully I finally was able to see the Queen Emma Summer Palace. I made reservations the night before and only received my confirmation about 10 minutes before I had to leave for my timed reservation yesterday morning (10-10:30am). I spent about an hour on the property with my husband and toddler-we were the only guests the entire time! We had a self-guided tour with a detailed pamphlet guiding us through the house. While the house was small, there are chairs with black cushions provided in every room just in case you need to sit down. It was so helpful to be able to put down the diaper bag once in awhile. The docents were able to answer every question I had after my self-guided tour. Both were incredibly helpful and kind. From jewelry gifted from Queen Victoria and Maharaja to a stereopticon gifted by Napolen III there were so many gems to look at. I especially appreciated the display of items that belonged to Prince Albert-including the fireman's jacket with a white "4" embroidered onto the jacket. Prince Albert was a huge fan of the Fire Engine Company No. 4 and was made an honorary member. The Hawaiian Engine Company No. 4 still has a parade each year on Price Albert's birthday (May 20th) as a remembrance. Also on display is the baptismal gift (a 3 foot high silver christening cup) Queen Victoria sent to Hawaii when Prince Albert became very sick. As Prince Albert's health started to decline, Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma asked two things of Queen Victoria: to become Prince Albert's godmother and to send a bishop from the Anglican Church to baptize Prince Albert. Queen Victoria fulfilled both requests, in addition to sending the christening cup. Most of the belongings were sold off before the house was rented out and before it fell into disrepair. Thankfully, when the items were sold there were detailed receipts. Through these receipts the Daughters of Hawaii was able to track down many pieces of furniture and belongs of the royal family from all over the world -- in the early 1900's! Additionally, the Bishop Museum and Iolani Palace both donated and permanently loaned pieces. The quilts on the beds and crib are not original to the royal family, but they are indicative of the kinds of fabric and style of quilting that was used. Just a few notes: - The ballroom is currently under construction and not open to the public - RSVPs only - Must wear shoe coverings that will be provided upon entrance - COVID-19: must wear a mask, have a wrist temperature taken, and contract tracing form filled out
It gets hot in Hawaii (who would have thought?) and Queen Emma was smart enough to build her summer home higher up the mountain. Soothing breezes and a average five degrees cooler than downtown Honolulu make this place a refuge for the sunburnt Haole. Cute plantation home with loads of original Koa wood furniture. Very interesting history along with the majority of the artifacts present Ted being originals. Grace was kind and knowledgeable about the property's story. I think they typically give you a laminated info booklet but totally take advantage of a guide if they're available. Bill and his little dogo showed us the variety of plants that grow onsite and sent us off wanting to come back and enjoy their open grass picnic area. Their website hours are posted and updated. Don't trust the signs as they're wrong.
My family and I came to Queen Emma's Summer Palace today forvtheir Easter Tea. What an amazing event. I have come here before and di the self guided tour. Today included with our tea, we had a guided tour. It was really awesome to learn local history especially about Queen Emma. From what I have learned about her over the years she was an amazing woman. Back where thevtea was being held there was music and nice sweet treats while we waited for the other group to finish their tour. Then they brought us our lunch. It was quite the spread with little sandwiches, fruit and cheese, and a beautiful salad. There was also some sweet treats as well. This was was a fantastic event and my family and I enjoyed it very much!
When you come up the driveway, get ready for a breathtaking grand entrance! The wide pillared portico is welcoming, and really conveys regal peace. When we first walked up, we saw the most amazing and friendly dogs, and of course I'm a sucker for dogs! Turns out they belong to the caretaker, a very nice gentleman who lives on site! After chatting with him for a moment, we went inside the palace itself, and we were in for a treat! Wow! This is not as large or imposing as the Italianate Palace downtown. It absolutely conveys the sense of regal tranquility and harkens back to the old southern plantation houses that were wide open and surrounded by trees and cool breezes. It is a palace, but it is not large, so you will be able to really take your time and enjoy the amazing artifacts and details throughout the house. Please visit the gift shop, they have some amazing things in there! The care taker actually hand carved the canes that are for sale in there, and I was able to get the most beautiful handmade cane! I've been looking for years for the perfect one that didn't make me look like an old man, but was still beautiful and functional and I found his amazing artwork to be just what I was looking for! The price is extremely reasonable for an afternoon at this peaceful and beautiful sprawling estate. Please visit!
Just amazing!! We loved the Summer Palace! and the surrounding area, they have a cute gift shop with a lot of cool stuff! We'll definitely go back! You need to check it out!
BEING AWAY FOR SO LONG AND FEELING HOME AGAIN. Something occurred yesterday when I visited #Queenemmasummerpalace and it was a feeling I hadn't had since the late 1980's when- being a regular at the market is appreciated, Driving on the roads in Hawaii was giving Aloha, and weekends with families were about every "local" family being at the beach all day! ... And going to family get togethers to someones house was a great sense of togetherness when we all gather at one house!! That was the feeling I had when I went to Queen Emma's summer palace. Just the sense of being "Home" and I'm feeling a little more closer to home.... Just a little more now since my visit. And it was my First time going there. Thank you Queen Emma Summer Palace for doing the job you do in keeps up that same feeling for people like me who have been gone for soo long!
Like many local people, I have lived in Hawaii most of my life but have never been to the most historic places. One of them is the Queen Emma Summer Palace just up the Pali Highway. Fortunately it was an open house this past Monday and I was able to take my friend Lizzy, who is visiting from China. We were both very impressed at how well things were maintained. We saw feather capes, Kahilis, and quilts that were very old. In the adjoining Hall there was a short film being presented about Queen Emma's life. The grounds are actually huge connecting to the adjacent park. One interesting thing about Queen Emma's Summer Palace is that it is all living space. No bathrooms or kitchen. There was an adjacent another structure that housed the restrooms, kitchen, and servants quarters. That building is no longer maintained. If you have the chance, it's definitely worth checking out. Especially if you are there when it is free admission for her birthday.
I have lived I Hawaii for over 40 years and this is the first time I have stepped foot at this amazing historical location. I regret not going before because I feel I really missed out. I almost dare to say that it is better then the Iolani Palace. There is a guided walking tour that really is full of amazing historical information and paints a complete picture of those that lived there and things that led up to their possessions and related historical facts that you just can't get out of a history book. You don't need much time there, but I would allow a total of 1.5 hours to fully enjoy. There is so much to see and study inside the house and the surrounding property is very beautiful with all the tropical landscaping. It is very inexpensive to visit and they do offer different discounts, but it is so inexpensive, it is almost unnecessary. Location is easy to get to, but parking might be a challenge depending on time and day of the week. There is a park just behind that has parking spaces and you can walk across the field to the site. It is a rainy area, so an umbrella might be a good idea just in case.
We have driven by for years. Decades actually. We finally stop in, on a rainy Saturday morning. It's a fantastic home - and heightens your appreciation for the royalty that one ruled the islands. The Daughters of Hawai'i have gone to extraordinary lengths to preserve, present and honor Queen Emma's summer home. We had several representatives of the daughters on site, each with extensive historical knowledge of Queen Emma, her family and this lovely home. If you love history, or if you would like to know about life of royalty on the islands, check this historical home out. They have a lovely gift shop. Highly recommended!! read more
Dropped by after hiking nearby to see if we could Tour Queen Emma's Summer Palace without reservations. We paid for the self tour and entered the building. Read through the information so we could understand the different items we were viewing. Fascinating walk through Hawaii History and Queen Emma's own personal involvement . Some of the furniture is beautifully made with local wood. There were interesting gifts received from other rulers. There were beautiful feathered capes on display, which the handout how they were produced by only taking a few feathers from multiple birds and releasing without doing harm. read more
1 year ago
Who knew royalty had such cozy taste? Queen Emma Summer Palace is like the Hawaiian version of a royal Airbnb--modest, charming, and surrounded by lush jungle vibes. It's a peaceful little escape just minutes from the buzz of Honolulu. You walk in expecting a palace, but leave with a deep appreciation for Hawaiian history and a strong urge to redecorate your living room. The staff and volunteers are lovely--part tour guide, part history buff, part grandma energy (the good kind). I learned about Queen Emma, her travels, and her love for the people. Bonus: no crowds, no stress, and plenty of photo ops if you're into vintage furniture and sacred feather capes. Highly recommend if you need a quiet, cultural detour--or just want to pretend you're Hawaiian royalty for an hour. read more
2 years ago
So I took TheBus (yes, that's what's it's called) to Queen Emma's Summer Palace. If you walk up the drive, through lush tropical garden's, there a very New England style cottage. This was the Queen's summer home. I bought my ticket for a docent guided tour in the little gift shop behind the house. I was the only one on the tour and received the most wonderful tour from Cheryl. The tour starts in the rear of the house and works towards the front. I learned about the house, which was built from a kit. I learned about Queen Emma and her family. And I learned many customs and accessories of the Royal Hawaiian family. Cheryl was knowledgable, answered my many questions and made the experience interesting and personal. I'd give her 10 stars. Queen Emma with her husband established medical care facilities for Hawaiian people in the late 1800s. Queens Hospital is named for her. The gardens outside the house are lovely. It was easy to see how a queen (or anyone) could love this little get-away on the hill. The staff is incredibly friendly. The house was preserved and is maintained by the Daughters of Hawai'i. Special programs and events are offered throughout the month. The site even hosts weddings. I guess the palace is a short drive from Honolulu, or an hour bus ride. They will ask you to cover your shoes before entering the home and not to touch anything. I don't think the tour or delicate antiques are suitable for small kids, but older children might enjoy. They offer a non-guided tour, but I highly recommend the guided tour. You can buy advance tickets on-line This is a great experience for history buffs. Plan an hour for your visit. read more
Finally got a chance to visit the Queen Emma's Summer Palace. I first heard of Queen Emma when I saw her portrait at Kawaiaha'o Church back in 2001 and I've slowly been making my way around the islands to check out places relevant to the Hawaiian monarchy. This summer palace is basically just a small house with some historic furniture and items from various Hawaiian royals as of the 1800's. Many items and places other than the main house were gone as this house was salted for demolition to make way for a baseball field. Luckily, a historic society was able to save this main house a week before demolition. My husband and I paid for a docent-led tour. There were a few other couples and we were all asked to remove our shoes and leave them outside before walking into the home. Although they do have booties upon request, make sure to wear socks if you are shy about walking barefoot in public. The docent was fairly knowledgeable about the royal family but couldn't always answer questions about some of the artifacts inside the house, specifically the various vessels in the dining room / guest room. I did feel like I came away with having learnt things I didn't already know. Overall, it was a short tour as the property is quiet small, but if you're interested in Hawaiian history, this is a place you should be visiting. Visited September 2024 read more
So, I know I AM being BIAS but I am also saying it's 5 star because ITS BEAUTIFUL! It's located off the Pali Rd, so which means it's in the mountain region. With all the congested traffic, it's actually a really nice place to relax at. Most people automatically think of a HUGE BUILDING WITH ARCHES & HIGH DOORS. But this is Hawaii & Aloha Tower was the LARGEST building in the vvvvv for State up until the the late 60's. So, when we say summer palace, looks more like a BIG HOUSE with several bedrooms & whatnot. So DON'T BE ALARMED by how SMALL our palaces are. Just know, it's. A beautiful place to visit, especially during the early evening. We came here tonight for a Christmas Night hosted by Daughters of Hawaii Organization and several of AHS students (Aiea High School) who participated in this evenings celebration. This was their FIRST time making an event like this & hoping to continue it another year. Our son's friends were participating in it and were invited to attend. Unfortunately, we got stuck in traffic. It was TERRIBLE TODAY! Of ALL DAYS TOO! I mean it took us over an hour just to get from Aiea/FREEWAY to Likelike cut off. Guess everyone's going out for the Christmas celebrations. However, it was really wonderful and I'm glad we still made it in time to see the boys before they went home. We had a chance to look around the palace and see all the artifacts and admire the beautiful arrangements made for Christmas. We had the privilege to listen to a Harpist too! She did a wonderful job in playing such melodious music. Makes me want to learn the harp. Anywho, if you do visit, PLEASE DO SOME RESEARCH on your own to learn about the place and the mo'olelo of our King & Queen & Prince. It makes the visit much more enjoyable & memorable. Mahalo for looking and have a good one! TIGER CLAW: So it went missing for a while. A story was printed in the magazine about the Queen with her photo displayed. I. That photo she wore the Tiger claw necklace. A person on their way to Hawaii on HA for vacation, just so happened had read this article on the plane ride over. This person immediately recognized this piece of jewelry & thought: " was this the same as the one grandma has?! It CANT BE!" Upon their return home from vacation in Hawaii, they stumbled around the home looking for gramas piece of jewelry. Once in possession, they compared it to the magazine and found it to be SIMILAR & EXTREMELY IDENTICAL. However, how could this be the same jewelry?! Grandma had gotten it form a garage sale for a steal. This person called Bishop Museum to confirm the jewelry & moments later, the jewelry was in its way to the Palace to be authenticated. Eventually, IT WAS THE EXACT PIECE! (SO THE STORY WAS TOLD) But, you'll have to look it up yourself to be sure... Good Luck! read more
4 months ago
"Should I visit Queen Emma's Summer Place?" That depends. First reserve in advance the docent led tour. Small group (15 max). Cost more. Well worth it. The first impression will be "this is a palace??? My bedroom is twice the size as the queens. My living room is bigger than the 'grand ballroom'". Understanding that missionaries made the alii of Hawaii want everything European subsequently led to lumber, plaster, concrete, even furniture and a piano to be shipped to the islands and literally discard their culture makes you think. Hearing stories of the want to be part of the 19th century modern world was so great that foreigners were welcomed even if they brought diseases the indigenous people had no immunity to. Seeing the shoes of a child who died at age four a sad consequence. The tour is not haole bashing, "haole" as in all foreigners not just the lightly completed, just factual with artifacts all around you that reinforce whatever feelings you may have. Are said artifacts amazing? Yes, if put in the context of when and where they were made. You will find nicer koa bowls at a local craft fair but those of the palace are 150 years old. Online reservations suggested for self guided tours. They are required for docent led tours and sell out two to three weeks in advance. Plenty of free parking. So should you visit Queen Emma's Summer Palace? If you believe knowing history is important and are not afraid to experience feelings of melancholy, uneasiness, anger even guilt but value understanding it, then yes. read more
This is a place of beauty, wonder, and reverence...especially in the setting of the event "Mu'u at the Museum". And WOW, what an experience! It felt as if I've stepped back in time...ladies in vintage mu'umu'u strolling the gardens along the company of live musicians. There was a fashion show, hula, demonstration of horse lei making. My favorite was just to people watch, admire the absolute beauty of the variety of mu'umu'u. I was born and raised in California, thought of mu'umu'u along the lines of caftans and Filipino dusters (IYKYK). I couldn't be more wrong, and am excited to learn more. I think a proper docent-led tour is in order :-) Happy Mu'umu'u Month! read more
5 years ago
With only a few weeks left on Oahu I'm trying to see all the things left on my (long) list! Thankfully I finally was able to see the Queen Emma Summer Palace. I made reservations the night before and only received my confirmation about 10 minutes before I had to leave for my timed reservation yesterday morning (10-10:30am). I spent about an hour on the property with my husband and toddler-we were the only guests the entire time! We had a self-guided tour with a detailed pamphlet guiding us through the house. While the house was small, there are chairs with black cushions provided in every room just in case you need to sit down. It was so helpful to be able to put down the diaper bag once in awhile. The docents were able to answer every question I had after my self-guided tour. Both were incredibly helpful and kind. From jewelry gifted from Queen Victoria and Maharaja to a stereopticon gifted by Napolen III there were so many gems to look at. I especially appreciated the display of items that belonged to Prince Albert-including the fireman's jacket with a white "4" embroidered onto the jacket. Prince Albert was a huge fan of the Fire Engine Company No. 4 and was made an honorary member. The Hawaiian Engine Company No. 4 still has a parade each year on Price Albert's birthday (May 20th) as a remembrance. Also on display is the baptismal gift (a 3 foot high silver christening cup) Queen Victoria sent to Hawaii when Prince Albert became very sick. As Prince Albert's health started to decline, Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma asked two things of Queen Victoria: to become Prince Albert's godmother and to send a bishop from the Anglican Church to baptize Prince Albert. Queen Victoria fulfilled both requests, in addition to sending the christening cup. Most of the belongings were sold off before the house was rented out and before it fell into disrepair. Thankfully, when the items were sold there were detailed receipts. Through these receipts the Daughters of Hawaii was able to track down many pieces of furniture and belongs of the royal family from all over the world -- in the early 1900's! Additionally, the Bishop Museum and Iolani Palace both donated and permanently loaned pieces. The quilts on the beds and crib are not original to the royal family, but they are indicative of the kinds of fabric and style of quilting that was used. Just a few notes: - The ballroom is currently under construction and not open to the public - RSVPs only - Must wear shoe coverings that will be provided upon entrance - COVID-19: must wear a mask, have a wrist temperature taken, and contract tracing form filled out read more
It gets hot in Hawaii (who would have thought?) and Queen Emma was smart enough to build her summer home higher up the mountain. Soothing breezes and a average five degrees cooler than downtown Honolulu make this place a refuge for the sunburnt Haole. Cute plantation home with loads of original Koa wood furniture. Very interesting history along with the majority of the artifacts present Ted being originals. Grace was kind and knowledgeable about the property's story. I think they typically give you a laminated info booklet but totally take advantage of a guide if they're available. Bill and his little dogo showed us the variety of plants that grow onsite and sent us off wanting to come back and enjoy their open grass picnic area. Their website hours are posted and updated. Don't trust the signs as they're wrong. read more
4 years ago
My family and I came to Queen Emma's Summer Palace today forvtheir Easter Tea. What an amazing event. I have come here before and di the self guided tour. Today included with our tea, we had a guided tour. It was really awesome to learn local history especially about Queen Emma. From what I have learned about her over the years she was an amazing woman. Back where thevtea was being held there was music and nice sweet treats while we waited for the other group to finish their tour. Then they brought us our lunch. It was quite the spread with little sandwiches, fruit and cheese, and a beautiful salad. There was also some sweet treats as well. This was was a fantastic event and my family and I enjoyed it very much! read more
1 year ago
When you come up the driveway, get ready for a breathtaking grand entrance! The wide pillared portico is welcoming, and really conveys regal peace. When we first walked up, we saw the most amazing and friendly dogs, and of course I'm a sucker for dogs! Turns out they belong to the caretaker, a very nice gentleman who lives on site! After chatting with him for a moment, we went inside the palace itself, and we were in for a treat! Wow! This is not as large or imposing as the Italianate Palace downtown. It absolutely conveys the sense of regal tranquility and harkens back to the old southern plantation houses that were wide open and surrounded by trees and cool breezes. It is a palace, but it is not large, so you will be able to really take your time and enjoy the amazing artifacts and details throughout the house. Please visit the gift shop, they have some amazing things in there! The care taker actually hand carved the canes that are for sale in there, and I was able to get the most beautiful handmade cane! I've been looking for years for the perfect one that didn't make me look like an old man, but was still beautiful and functional and I found his amazing artwork to be just what I was looking for! The price is extremely reasonable for an afternoon at this peaceful and beautiful sprawling estate. Please visit! read more
4 years ago
Just amazing!! We loved the Summer Palace! and the surrounding area, they have a cute gift shop with a lot of cool stuff! We'll definitely go back! You need to check it out! read more
BEING AWAY FOR SO LONG AND FEELING HOME AGAIN. Something occurred yesterday when I visited #Queenemmasummerpalace and it was a feeling I hadn't had since the late 1980's when- being a regular at the market is appreciated, Driving on the roads in Hawaii was giving Aloha, and weekends with families were about every "local" family being at the beach all day! ... And going to family get togethers to someones house was a great sense of togetherness when we all gather at one house!! That was the feeling I had when I went to Queen Emma's summer palace. Just the sense of being "Home" and I'm feeling a little more closer to home.... Just a little more now since my visit. And it was my First time going there. Thank you Queen Emma Summer Palace for doing the job you do in keeps up that same feeling for people like me who have been gone for soo long! read more
Like many local people, I have lived in Hawaii most of my life but have never been to the most historic places. One of them is the Queen Emma Summer Palace just up the Pali Highway. Fortunately it was an open house this past Monday and I was able to take my friend Lizzy, who is visiting from China. We were both very impressed at how well things were maintained. We saw feather capes, Kahilis, and quilts that were very old. In the adjoining Hall there was a short film being presented about Queen Emma's life. The grounds are actually huge connecting to the adjacent park. One interesting thing about Queen Emma's Summer Palace is that it is all living space. No bathrooms or kitchen. There was an adjacent another structure that housed the restrooms, kitchen, and servants quarters. That building is no longer maintained. If you have the chance, it's definitely worth checking out. Especially if you are there when it is free admission for her birthday. read more
8 years ago
I have lived I Hawaii for over 40 years and this is the first time I have stepped foot at this amazing historical location. I regret not going before because I feel I really missed out. I almost dare to say that it is better then the Iolani Palace. There is a guided walking tour that really is full of amazing historical information and paints a complete picture of those that lived there and things that led up to their possessions and related historical facts that you just can't get out of a history book. You don't need much time there, but I would allow a total of 1.5 hours to fully enjoy. There is so much to see and study inside the house and the surrounding property is very beautiful with all the tropical landscaping. It is very inexpensive to visit and they do offer different discounts, but it is so inexpensive, it is almost unnecessary. Location is easy to get to, but parking might be a challenge depending on time and day of the week. There is a park just behind that has parking spaces and you can walk across the field to the site. It is a rainy area, so an umbrella might be a good idea just in case. read more
Very nice blast into historic Hawaiiana... Admission: $6 adult/$4 kama'aina/$1 kids/free under 4 Hours: open daily 9a-4pm The first thing my son said was "This doesn't look like a palace!", and he's right, it's a house. A house filled with historic artifacts from the monarchy. Queen Emma (who was married to Kamehameha IV) enjoyed living here because it was much cooler in Nuuanu (too hot in town). There are many of her things/artifacts in this house which takes about 20-30 minutes to see: Her piano was from Europe, which was shipped to Hawaii by boat via Cape Horn. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VXdRs_hKpfMcdW88q4FNMw?select=nComhDVzd0aChzKNXFeoig Her fancy (what-do-you-call-that-glass-case-that-holds-all-the-fancy plates and cups?) display from Queen Victoria (her wedding gift) sits proudly in the back room. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VXdRs_hKpfMcdW88q4FNMw?select=sR3FXumX3N8eq6b66i22Rg You also get a glimpse into Emma's son Prince Albert's childhood, as there are several of his things on display as well. (He died when he was only 4 years old.) (BTW, When we got to the piano, the tour guide asked if I had an iPhone to take a picture of my kids next to the piano. So I whipped out my phone and started snapping away. I was set up! There is a sign at the entrance (which I failed to see) that says no inside photography. Oops.) read more
7 years ago
This is NOT a big place. Without knowing the history behind it, you will just think it looks like an open-house in one of the towns in Northeastern US. I would recommend you read up the Hawaiian history and study Queen Emma's biographies before coming. It will make the experience much more robust. There was only 2 other groups/ couples here when we visited. we only spent 30 mins at the house and in the gift shop behind the house. It was definitely not a major attraction... read more
4 years ago
Beautiful place to visit. Quilters every Tues morning and ukulele lessons ones a week. Well worth the adventure so learn some Hawaiian history. read more
4 years ago
20 years ago
Perfectly quaint and lovely. I always visit the Summer Palace when I'm in town, just to take in the Hawaiian history that fills this elegant, perfectly appointed home. It was built in 1847 and was lived in by Queen Emma and her husband, King Kamehameha IV. When you walk inside, you see the history in the pictures and paintings on the walls, the neatly preserved beds, and the grounds itself, which is perfectly maintained. I love seeing old Hawaii and surrounding myself with the stories of the Hawaiian monarchy. It's sad to see the gardens where young royals used to roam, knowing they died at very young ages and did not live long enough to truly enjoy life in Hawaii. If you get a chance, visit the Bishop Museum for a truly in depth tour of the history of Hawaii. It's a sad story to say the least, but memorable, and illuminating. In my opinion, Hawaiians are resilient and proud, and when you walk into the Summer Palace, you can almost feel that energy pulsing. read more
15 years ago
I coordinated a weeding at Queen Emma Summer Palace this past weekend so this review is for those considering use of the property for an event. The 2-acre garden is absolutely stunning! The flora and fauna and lush green vegetation makes this the perfect place to hold a wedding and reception. The ceremony was held on the Prince Albert Terrace. Luckily the weather cooperated and we had a rain-free ceremony despite passing showers only 30 minutes prior. Caveat: This is the Pali, so rain showers are frequent, even in the summer! The museum remained open for an hour after the reception for guests to peruse. Gift shop can also remain open if requested. Reception was held at the Emmalani Hale. We were able to comfortable fit 75 people (8 per table), but I doubt that you could get any more in without it feeling a bit tight. Buffet and bar were both outside of the hall to free up more space for the guests. The other option would have been to put the head table on the stage, but that would have isolated them a bit from the guests. Total rental (hall plus terrace) came out to $1000, which is very reasonable, except that you need to factor in food catering, equipment rental, wait help, sound system, valet service, insurance, trash pick-up, etc. Parking area is quite small for an event for 75 people, so valet service is highly recommended! And although a lovely setting, Emmalani Hale and the adjoining kitchen could use a make-over. Lighting and sound system needs updating along with the assortment of 'extras' in the kitchen that could have been removed to provide more working space. Lastly, the Daughters of Hawaii (who operate the palace) as well as the grounds keeper were very helpful throughout the entire event. read more
Having visiting friends and family is a great excuse to take a field trip, and Queen Emma Summer Palace is definitely worth visiting. It provides an intimate look at the royal Hawaiian family, bringing alive their life stories. The docents do a terrific job explaining the history, cultural significance of artifacts in the museum, and bringing alive the life stories of Hawai'i's monarchs. At the back of the palace is a small but excellent gift shop with local art and craftwork. It took us about two hours to complete our tour of the palace, gift shop, and grounds. I would suggest this tour for adults and older children who enjoy history. Hanaiakamalama (The Southern Cross), or Queen Emma Summer Palace, served as a summer retreat for Queen Emma of Hawaii from 1857 to 1885, as well as for her husband King Kamehameha IV, and their son, Prince Albert Edward. It is a now a historic landmark, museum, and tourist site preserved by the Daughters of Hawai'i. Hanaiakamalama was the "mountain" home of Queen Emma, inherited from her uncle, John Young II (son of the famous advisor to Kamehameha I, John Young I). Queen Emma used the home as a retreat where she could escape from the oppressive heat of Honolulu into the coolness of Nu'uanu. The Queen Emma Summer Palace was acquired by the Daughters of Hawai'i in 1915, narrowly avoiding the demolition of the house and construction of a baseball field on the grounds. The Territorial Government granted the Daughters the use of the home and 22,750 square feet of the grounds as long as the home was used and maintained as a museum. (The Daughters of Hawai'i was founded in 1903 by seven women who were daughters of American Protestant missionaries born in Hawai'i, citizens of the Hawaiian Kingdom before annexation, and foresaw the inevitable loss of much of the Hawaiian culture. They founded the organization "to perpetuate the memory and spirit of old Hawai'i and of historic facts, and to preserve the nomenclature and correct pronunciation of the Hawaiian language.") There are a number of worthwhile events held at the palace annually, including the annual Hawaiian book sale, a festival, and Christmas tea. You can view the events calendar and get lots more info on the palace at http://daughtersofhawaii.org/2011/01/27/queen-emma-summer-palace/. Admission to the Palace is just $6 for adults, $1 for children, and $4 for kama'aina. The palace is open seven days a week, 9 AM to 4 PM, with the exception of major holidays. To arrange a group tour, call 808.595.3167. Yelp 365 Challenge #141/365 read more
One day, we decided to venture out of the leeward side to see what the rest of the island has to offer. We were actually on our way to Pali lookout when we went past this place. me: hey! isn't this the place you was talking about long time ago? hubby: oh yeah. so this is where it is. (passing it while in the left lane) we'll check it out on our way back. me: maybe u can make a U-turn over there (points to a direction that we can U-turn) Being it was my first time there, I didn't know what to expect. (like if you have to pay to get in) Admission is $6 adults, $1 kids. This place is so rich in Hawaiian history, all the way down to having original flooring. We took the self guided tour, but regardless of that, the tour guides were more than happy to share their knowledge with us. Although small, the palace has a lot of things to see. Our kids loved seeing the different artifacts that were in all the rooms. They have a better understanding of the things that they have been taught in school. If you are ever in the area, (before you take the out of towners to Pali lookout) this is a good place to check out. Bookmark this place if you are interested in learning about Queen Emma and her life back then. You won't regret it. read more
9 years ago
Aloha Kakou, Today there was an Event going on at the Queen Emma Palace, being our first time here, we found a parking in the grassy area, and paid $6.00 each to get in, the food was very expensive at this event, the Hawaiian Plate was $15.00 and just a Teri burger with Cheese they were charging $7.00. The Museum was very small and wasn't as great as I anticipated. read more
10 years ago
I'd bookmarked this place YEARS ago and finally was able to tour it. I went for their annual evening Christmas program, and was not disappointed. It is run by Daughters of Hawaii, who also runs Hulihe'e Palace in Kona, where we've had an excellent experience, so no surprise that this is similarly well-managed. Nice gift shop with a good selection of Hawaii- and hand-made goods. Books, jewelry, Christmas ornaments, all the usual suspects. Their Christmas evening program was from 6-8pm, well after their usual 4pm closing time. We purchased our admission ($5 - a steal!) at the gift shop and then walked up to the entry, where we were serenaded by the Emmalani singers' Christmas carols. There was no formal tour - we were free to wander at our own pace, and each room had a docent available for questions. And they were extremely knowledgeable! I asked a few questions, but I also enjoyed listening in on others' conversations. So sad that Queen Emma lost her son and husband within about a year of each other. Also sad that the prince died so young and so painfully from what was likely appendicitis - something so easily diagnosed and treated today. They have rotating special exhibits, too, like the lauhala weaving on now with modern and older pieces on display. It was lovely to see the place dressed up for Christmas, and the music made the evening extra-special. There were free refreshments in the hale next to the palace, with fruit, cookies, homemade cupcakes, water, and hot chocolate. The palace is quite small, so it doesn't take long to tour, but there's a lot of history within its walls, and the experience is much more intimate than, say, 'Iolani Palace or Bishop Museum. I'd recommend it any time of day/year, but strongly recommend the Christmas at the Palace in December. read more
13 years ago
Most guys don't like historic museums, but I can tell you that after passing this place on the Pali several times, I decided to stop and visit; I've been back a couple of times now. It's definitely worth the visit to see the history and culture of this beautiful island. You'll see amazing furniture made from many native Hawaiian trees. So quit passing this place up and stop by for a visit. Tell your guy-friends that they need to "get over it" and prepare to be amazed. read more
I have gone by this local treasure many times and never took the opportunity to stop in. What a neat and historical place. We were greeted with Aloha. And given a semi guided tour. It was interesting to hear the history of the Summer Palace and the King Kamehemeha IV and Queen Emma. How they were not only royalty but pillars of the community. Seeking to improve the healthcare system in Hawaii for its citizens. So much so, that the King would go door to door to humbly ask people for donations to help build a local hospital. The wood furniture is amazing and beautiful. The high ceilings in the house help keep it cool. A neat detail to notice is how wide the doors are in the house. These are custom doors made to fit a females larger bottom skirts. The for visiting this historical Hawaiian place is minimal. So I was sure to make a donation. This helps with the upkeep of this amazing place. If you have the time to stop by here, please do. Don't just keep driving by like I have done many times. This time, I stopped in for a friends wedding that she had hosted at the Summer Palace. Which is a truly amazing place to have an outdoor wedding and be surrounded by such rich Hawaiian heritage. Another neat tidbit is the piano is a working piano. And at times they might allow a guest to play the piano. read more
8 years ago
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Queen Emma Summer Palace - museums - Updated October 2026
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