The Niaulani Campus of the Volcano Art Center lies surrounded by a beautiful rainforest of Kilauea State Recreation Area on one side and the Kahaualea Natural Area Reserve in the south. The natural beauty that envelopes this art center-cum-educational institution is intended to inspire potential artists to create art works that match, or, perhaps, surpass nature’s work. The art foundation is responsible for encouraging and honing local talent. They have regular events and art exhibitions held at the venue. Do check the website for details on their events.
Few of the earth's natural processes match the might of a volcano - blazing fountains of molten earth and liquid fire that thrust mountains from the sea while retracing shores and drowning islands in a single sweep. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the few places in the world where this violently majestic phenomenon can be witnessed first hand. Home to two of the world's most active volcanoes - Mauna Loa and Kilauea - vociferous eruptions with fiery streams of molten lava spewing from the lofty hulks of these volcanic mounts are regular events. Mauna Loa is also renowned as the world's largest mount, its summit at a height of 56,000 feet (17,000 meters) above the seafloor. Volcanic deserts with glowing embers, steaming craters, lava tubes, and lush forests teeming with life tell the tale of the islands of Hawaii, their dramatic origins, natural heritage, and human ancestry.
The Palace Theater is a landmark in the charming waterfront town of Hilo. The marquee still shines bright on performance nights. It was originally opened in 1925 made completely of redwood imported from the Pacific Northwest. Today the theater hosts a movie schedule of notable films, including a special Wednesday morning cultural performance.
Located in Hilo, this museum comprises of two separate galleries. The Island Heritage Gallery features a number of exhibits on Hawaii's history, heritage and culture. The Earth Heritage Gallery is devoted to the natural sciences. Additional permanent exhibits include the Interactive Astronomy Center and the Shipman Foundation Gallery of Chinese Art. Special exhibits are featured periodically. The structure is on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in the first half of the 19th century to house missionaries, it was converted to a museum in 1931.
All that is artistic on the Eastern side of Hawai'i, whether it be theatrical, musical or ethnic cultural, seems to have a home base at this downtown facility. Two galleries display the works of local and international artists. Experimental theater performances, special-interest lectures and even swing dances take place in the intimate venue on the second floor. A half-dozen arts and cultural organizations, including Hilo Community Players and Kin Ryosho Dance Academy, operate within the center. Various workshops and classes are held regularly. Call or pick up a copy of the monthly calendar for up-to-the-minute information.
Located in a residential area, this five-acre (20234.3 square meters) county park offers one of the best opportunities to explore a lava cave. The 2-mile-long (3.21 kilometers) cave offers lots of dank and dark scenery that includes a skylight and endangered crickets. The park is not hard to find along Kaumana Drive and offers a picnic area, rest rooms and even picnic tables. The stairway to the entrance of the cave travels down into slippery rocks that are covered with ferns. Flashlights and sturdy shoes are highly recommended. There is ample free parking located in a lot across the street from the cave entrance.
Centrally located and well staffed, this place provides visitors with ample free information about the Big Island's many attractions and events. The staff also can recommend restaurants, shops and galleries to visit. In addition to printed information and maps, the staff here offers plenty of recommendations and anecdotes. They are patient and ready to answer as many questions as you can ask. If you're not yet in the area, check out the website.
When visiting the beautiful islands of Hawaii, most tourists think of sunny beaches, but one thing that you cannot miss on a trip here is Mount Kīlauea in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. A staggering two million people visit this active volcano every year to view the enthralling sight of the mountain spewing ash and molten lava. There are several hiking trails and craters from where one can get a glimpse of this incredible erupting force of nature. Located at an elevation of 4,091 feet (1,247 meters), Mount Kīlauea makes for an amazing experience to witness the ancient landscape of these islands.
Go back in time as you step into the Plantation Museum in Papaikou. You can look at the pictures of the intermingled lives of the various communities of plantation workers of Hawaiian, Filipino, Portuguese and Puerto Rican descent. This has made Hawaii a unique cultural meeting point that it is today. Find photos from the 1900s and other such memorabilia in this fascinating collection. Check website for opening hours, admission prices and more information.
Few of the earth's natural processes match the might of a volcano - blazing fountains of molten earth and liquid fire that thrust mountains from the sea while retracing shores and drowning islands in a single sweep. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the few places in the world where this violently majestic phenomenon can be witnessed first hand. Home to two of the world's most active volcanoes - Mauna Loa and Kilauea - vociferous eruptions with fiery streams of molten lava spewing from the lofty hulks of these volcanic mounts are regular events. Mauna Loa is also renowned as the world's largest mount, its summit at a height of 56,000 feet (17,000 meters) above the seafloor. Volcanic deserts with glowing embers, steaming craters, lava tubes, and lush forests teeming with life tell the tale of the islands of Hawaii, their dramatic origins, natural heritage, and human ancestry.
Whether it be the Farmer's Market, community cook-offs or the seasonal Luau, the Cooper Center is the heart of the cultural scene here in Volcano. Lending a helping hand to those in need is a priority and the center often hosts events and fund raisers. So, come join in the vibe of the community that even rents out spaces for special events.