Honolulu Museum of Art, Honolulu

The Honolulu Museum of Art stands as the largest of its kind within the state, boasting one of the most extensive collections of Asian and Pan-Pacific art in the United States. Since its official inauguration on April 8, 1927, the museum's holdings have expanded to encompass over 50,000 art pieces.

This institution features a substantial assembly of Asian artworks, with a particular emphasis on Japanese and Chinese creations. Its notable collections encompass the Samuel H. Kress assortment, renowned for its Italian Renaissance paintings, as well as a rich array of American and European paintings and decorative arts. Additionally, the museum houses art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas, along with textiles, contemporary art, and an impressive graphic collection comprising over 23,000 works on paper. Among its treasures are the James A. Michener collection of ukiyo-e prints and the Hawaiian art collection, which traces the artistic history of Hawaiʻi.

Knowledgeable docents lead guided tours for the general public, school groups (ranging from preschool to higher education), and community organizations. The Tour and Tea program, for instance, combines gallery discussions led by docents with the enjoyment of iced tea in the museum's courtyard. Moreover, an introductory tour known as "Treasures of the Museum" highlights select pieces from the museum's permanent collection.

For those interested in temporary exhibitions, special tours are available, often featuring supplementary materials and activities, some specifically tailored for children. Theme tours delve into specific countries, regions, historical periods, art movements, or groups of artists, offering diverse perspectives on the museum's rich offerings.

Tip:
Definitely check out their monthly after-hours event, Art After Dark, which happens every last Friday of the month – a special time when the museum is open late to feature artists and feed museum-goers gourmet food and specialty cocktails.
You can enter free on the 1st Wednesday and 3rd Sunday. Entry to the Museum shop, the café and the Robert Allerton Art Library is always free.