Skip to main content
Usitour
Museum

Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii

📍 600 Imiloa Pl, Hilo, HI, USA
No photos yet
3.8/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
USA, Hilo
Category
Museum
Duration
1-2 hours
Address
600 Imiloa Pl, Hilo, HI, USA
Coordinates
19.7008, -155.0890

Introduction

The Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii, located in Hilo on the Big Island, is a unique cultural institution that bridges Polynesian voyaging traditions with modern astronomy. The name 'Imiloa means \"to explore and seek\" in Hawaiian. Through three major exhibit halls, visitors journey from the ancient star-navigation wisdom of Hawaiian wayfinders to the cutting-edge science of contemporary astronomers exploring the distant universe. The center features a 15-meter dome planetarium equipped with state-of-the-art digital projection systems delivering immersive star shows. The building's design is inspired by the Hawaiian voyaging canoe, with seven columns representing the Big Dipper and symbolizing celestial navigation. It serves both as an astronomy education hub and an important venue for preserving Native Hawaiian cultural heritage.

✨ Highlights

1
Planetarium Immersive Shows
A 15-meter dome planetarium with advanced digital projection delivers stunning Hawaiian night sky and deep space shows, taking visitors on a journey through the galaxy.
2
Polynesian Voyaging Hall
Showcases ancient Hawaiian wayfinding wisdom using stars, currents, and seabirds, recreating the legendary voyages of the Hokulea canoe.
3
Origins Exhibit Hall
Presents a dialogue between Hawaiian cosmological creation myths and modern Big Bang theory, juxtaposing ancient stories with scientific discovery.
4
Maunakea Observatory Display
Introduces research from world-class observatories atop Maunakea, highlighting the premier stargazing location in the Northern Hemisphere.
5
Interactive Navigation Experience
Visitors can handle traditional celestial navigation tools and simulate ancient wayfinding across the vast Pacific guided by the stars.
6
Hawaiian Cultural Heritage
Through indigenous language, art, and oral traditions, the exhibit emphasizes the deep connection between astronomy and Hawaiian cultural identity.

🛈 Practical Info

→Location：600 Kuhio Street, Hilo, Big Island, adjacent to UH Hilo campus
→Recommended Duration：2-3 hours, allow 3+ hours if including planetarium shows
→Best Time to Visit：Morning hours are less crowded, weekend afternoons feature special presentations
→Opening Hours：Wednesday-Sunday 9:00-16:30, closed Monday-Tuesday
→Ticket Information：Adults $19, Seniors 65+ $17, Children 4-12 $12, under 3 free
→Transportation：About 10 minutes drive from downtown Hilo, accessible via Hele On Bus Green Line

💡 Tips

• Planetarium seating is limited; reserve showtimes online ahead of time, as weekend sessions often sell out during peak season.
• Visit Imiloa by day to learn astronomy, then join a Maunakea summit stargazing tour at night for a complete celestial experience.
• Native Hawaiian educators regularly share voyaging traditions; ask the front desk for schedules, as these sessions offer deep cultural value.
• Rich interactive exhibits let children learn astronomy and navigation through play, making it perfect for family science education.
• Combine with UH Hilo campus and Rainbow Falls for a full day exploring the eastern Big Island.

FAQ

What are the opening hours of Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii?

Wednesday-Sunday 9:00-16:30, closed Monday-Tuesday

How much is the admission for Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii?

Adults $19, Seniors 65+ $17, Children 4-12 $12, under 3 free

Any practical tips for visiting Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii?

Planetarium seating is limited; reserve showtimes online ahead of time, as weekend sessions often sell out during peak season. Visit Imiloa by day to learn astronomy, then join a Maunakea summit stargazing tour at night for a complete celestial experience.

How long should I spend at Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii?

A typical visit takes 1-2 hours.