Visiting Local Cultural Centers and Museums on the Big Island #CommunityFirstTravel

Visiting Local Cultural Centers and Museums on the Big Island #CommunityFirstTravel

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage. From ancient Hawaiian history to contemporary art, there are many cultural centers and museums on the island that offer visitors the opportunity to learn about and experience this rich heritage.

One such cultural center is the East Hawaii Cultural Center located in downtown Hilo. Administered by the East Hawaii Cultural Council, this collaborative of local art organizations creates a vibrant and thriving gathering place centered on art and culture¹. The center maintains high standards for aesthetic expression through exhibitions, performances, and programs centered around art, theater, and music¹.

Another great place to learn about local culture and history is the ʻImiloa Astronomy Center located on the University of Hawaiʻi Hilo Campus. ʻImiloa (which translates to “seek far”) uses exhibits and planetarium shows to explore the deep connection between the Hawaiian islands, its culture, and the skies above². Visitors can take a journey to the top of Mauna Kea and learn about how ancient Hawaiians navigated via the stars².

In addition to these cultural centers, there are many museums on the Big Island that deal with the intersection of culture and environment, including marine science, astronomy, and volcanology². For example, the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center focuses on the natural science, culture, and history surrounding the islands and their marine environments². Featuring a 3,500-gallon salt-water aquarium, visitors can learn more about Hawaiian coral reefs and see life-size models of local sea creatures².

In conclusion, there are many cultural centers and museums on the Big Island of Hawaii that offer visitors the opportunity to learn about and experience the island’s rich cultural heritage. By visiting these places during your trip to the island, you can gain a deeper understanding of local culture and history.

Source:
(1) East Hawaii Cultural Center | Big Island Guide. https://bigislandguide.com/east-hawaii-cultural-center.
(2) 14+ Fascinating Historic & Cultural Sites on the Big Island (+Map). https://www.lovebigisland.com/history-and-culture/.
(3) Polynesian Cultural Center | Go Hawaii. https://www.gohawaii.com/listing/polynesian-cultural-center/708.