Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Unlock the storied heart of Hawaii‘s capital, Honolulu on this self-guided walking tour through its Downtown and Chinatown districts. Your guide on this audio adventure is Kapena, a local guide who was born and raised in Oahu. Dive into the city‘s rich cultural heritage and learn about missionaries, diverse religions, and the way it fits into the wider world. Explore the city‘s glitzy side by seeing iconic film and television locations, such as the headquarters of Queens Hospital and the Honolulu Police Department, which both feature in the popular television series, Hawaii Five-0. See the statue of Elvis Presley on Ward Avenue, and hear about his performances in Hawaii. Walk through Hawaii‘s oldest city park, Thomas Square Park and swing through Chinatown, one of America‘s most historic. From the start of this Honolulu tour at King Kamehameha Statue to its end in front of the Queen Lili‘uokalani Statue by Iolani Palace, you‘ll learn all about the Hawaiian Kingdom.

1. 1

   King Kamehameha Statue

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   Start your tour at this striking bronze statue honoring Hawaii's greatest king, draped in traditional lei. Discover the fascinating stories of his royal descendants and their remarkable achievements on the world stage.

2. 2

   Stop 2

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   See Hawaii's first Christian church, built from 14,000 coral blocks harvested from local reefs. Step inside this historic 1842 sanctuary known as the "Westminster Abbey of Hawaii" where royalty was crowned and married.

3. 3

   Hawaii State Capitol

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   Pass by this unique architectural marvel, one of only 11 state capitols without a traditional dome. Discover how its distinctive open-air design symbolizes Hawaii's volcanic origins and island geography.

4. 4

   Stop 4

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   Walk past this beautifully restored 1922 movie palace, known as the "Pride of the Pacific." Learn how this beloved neoclassical landmark survived decades of demolition threats to become a thriving cultural center.

5. 5

   Aloha Tower Marketplace

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   Stroll through the marketplace surrounding this iconic 1926 lighthouse that once welcomed ocean liners to Honolulu. Hear how this was Hawaii's tallest building when Pearl Harbor was attacked during World War II.

6. 6

   Stop 6

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   Explore one of America's oldest Chinatowns, a vibrant neighborhood filled with markets, shops, and authentic eateries. Experience the neighborhood's fascinating wartime history and enjoy award-winning Vietnamese cuisine at the Pig and the Lady.

7. 7

   Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

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   View Hawaii's oldest Catholic cathedral, a striking French Gothic Revival building consecrated in 1843. Marvel at the beautiful stained glass windows and hear about the missionaries who shaped Hawaii's religious landscape.

8. 8

   Thomas Square

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   Walk through Hawaii's oldest public park, a peaceful green space dating back to 1843. Enjoy the shade of mature trees while learning about its significance in Hawaiian sovereignty history.

9. 9

   Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives

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   Pass by this living history museum featuring New England-style homes built by missionaries in the 1820s. Discover how these early arrivals influenced Hawaiian culture, language, and eventual political change.

10. 10

    Ali'iolani Hale

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    See the Hawaii State Supreme Court building, instantly recognizable as the headquarters from Hawaii Five-0. Learn about its original purpose as a royal palace and its role in Hawaii's judicial history.

11. 11

    Stop 11

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    Visit Hawaii's oldest bar, a classic navy watering hole that's been serving sailors and locals since 1935. Step inside this authentic dive bar to experience a piece of old Honolulu that has remained unchanged for generations.

12. 12

    Stop 12

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    Admire America's only royal palace, a magnificent Victorian-era building where Hawaiian monarchs once ruled. Explore the grand halls where Hawaii's last queen was imprisoned during the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.