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United States/Things to Do in Hawaii, solo trip

Iolani Palace (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is Iolani Palace?

90%Solo-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: The palace offers flexible audio or guided tours, free-roaming grounds, and abundant historical detail, letting a solo traveler explore at a self-set pace with zero child-care constraints.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 5,601 reviews)
Iolani Palace: The Only Royal Palace in the United States (Honolulu, Hawaii)
5 min
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Iolani Palace: The Only Royal Palace in the United States (Honolulu, Hawaii)
98.6K views • 2 years ago
IOLANI PALACE: Full Video Tour! | Only Royal Palace in the U.S. | Honolulu, Hawaii
14 min
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IOLANI PALACE: Full Video Tour! | Only Royal Palace in the U.S. | Honolulu, Hawaii
3K views • 2 years ago
Hawaii Walk Iolani Palace | Where to Park for Downtown Honolulu | Sky Gate August 16, 2024
14 min
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Hawaii Walk Iolani Palace | Where to Park for Downtown Honolulu | Sky Gate August 16, 2024
1.2K views • 1 year ago

Positives:

  • Small group tours: Guided tours cap at about 10 guests, making it easy to connect and ask questions.
  • Flexible pacing: The audio tour lets you pause and revisit rooms at your own speed.
  • Free grounds access: You can explore the courtyard and take exterior photos without a ticket.

Challenges:

  • No flash photography: Indoor flash is prohibited; use non-flash or phone settings to avoid fines.
  • Limited seating: Benches in galleries are scarce; wear comfortable shoes for standing.
  • Indoor warmth: The palace interior can feel warm; bring a refillable water bottle.
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🏖️ Explore Iolani Palace with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Iolani Palace. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Iolani Palace?

  • A 19th-century palace completed in 1882 to serve as the official royal residence and seat of government for Hawaii’s monarchy
  • The only authentic royal palace on U.S. soil, blending American Florentine architectural style with Hawaiian craftsmanship and indigenous materials
  • A designated National Historic Landmark restored to its original opulent interiors, including the private apartments of King Kalākaua and the formal throne room of Queen Liliʻuokalani

What is so special about Iolani Palace for solo trip?

  1. Experience the lifestyle of Hawaii’s last monarchs through guided or audio tours.
  2. Explore original royal chambers and basement exhibits at your own pace.
  3. Capture unique palace architecture on the grounds with fewer crowds.
  4. Benefit from small-group tours ideal for solo travelers.
  5. Access free palace grounds for exterior photography anytime.

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours

Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows you to complete a self-led audio tour and photo stroll at a relaxed pace.

(View Iolani Palace on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in Iolani Palace

Self-Led Audio Tour:

Follow a 60-minute narration through the first floor and basement gallery at your own pace.

Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to pick up your audio device and adjust the volume before entering.

Docent-Led Guided Tour:

Join a small-group storytelling tour led by a palace docent.

Tip: Reserve your spot online at least one day in advance to secure a place.

Palace Grounds & Photography:

Walk the exterior grounds to frame Iolani Palace’s unique baronial architecture.

Tip: Visit at opening time for soft morning light and fewer visitors; use non-flash mode indoors.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Iolani Palace

  1. Pre-book tours: Buy audio or guided tour tickets online to skip the ticket counter.
  2. Hit opening time: Arrive at 9 AM to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
  3. Combine experiences: Start with the guided tour then use leftover time on the audio device for exhibits.
🏖️ Tour Iolani Palace like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Iolani Palace. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Iolani Palace

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Arunabha Mitra

Arunabha Mitra

Aug 2025

An icon of Hawaiian history and heritage. The guided audio tour was very well organized without being overwhelming. The information presented in the audio narration was concise without missing important details - there were many excerpts included from letters and diaries of the Hawaiian royals and their associates which added great atmosphere to the overall experience. The palace itself is beautif...

Mick Oldham

Mick Oldham

Aug 2025

Well worth a visit. Beautifully restored back to the times of the last kings and Queens. Good audio tour, that takes you through the various rooms at a reasonable pace (you can choose to spend more or less time in each room as you wish, you have a tour start time, but there is no end time).

Jakarin Hongyok

Jakarin Hongyok

Jul 2025

Iolani Palace is a beautiful and special place to visit in Honolulu. It’s full of history and has a peaceful atmosphere. I didn’t know much about Hawaiian royalty before, but the tour taught me a lot. It’s the only royal palace in the United States, which makes it quite unique. The building is stunning, both outside and inside. The rooms are well kept, and you can see where the kings and queens o...

Kendrick

Kendrick

Jun 2025

This is a must-visit location for anyone interested in learning more about the past. Every corner is rich with historical significance, and the exhibits are thoughtfully curated to offer both educational value and engaging stories. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, there’s so much to take in and appreciate. The staff is knowledgeable, and the atmosphere really brings the stories to li...

Ty Carrick

Ty Carrick

Jun 2025

Way more going on here than I ever knew. Started this trip completely ignorant of the culture of this beautiful island chain. So glad I was given the opportunity to learn something new for it gave me great perspective for the place I was calling a vacation. As a visitor to these islanders, thank you for having me and taking the time to help me see perspective. Excellent job bringing your history t...

When is the best time to visit Iolani Palace (Hawaii, United States)?

Check the palace events calendar for occasional hula and music performances held on summer weekend afternoons.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Hawaii on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Self-led audio tour ticketUSD 28
Cafe snackUSD 10
Souvenir postcard or small giftUSD 15
Total EstimatedUSD 53

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Iolani Palace

Address: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Iolani Palace (Hawaii)?

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About Iolani Palace

Opening Hours

Monday:Closed
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday:9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday:Closed

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 808-522-0822

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