has remained – from then until now – as Hawaii’s capital, largest city, and main seaport and airport for the islands. ALOHA TOWER When it debuted in 1926 as Honolulu’s tallest structure, Aloha Tower was a beacon welcoming luxury cruise ships. Today, it operates as Honolulu Harbor’s control center. At the adjacent Aloha Tower Marketplace (alohatower.com), history, events, grinds and memorable entertainment can be found. Staple eateries at Aloha Tower include The Old Spaghetti Factory (osf.com) and Aloha Tortilla Factory & Café (alohatortillafactory.square.site). 1 Aloha Tower Drive. Ka Moana Luau (moanaluau.com) is an Aloha Tower must! Offering an organic, farm-to-table buffet dinner or table-service option, enjoy a voyage across Ka Moana (the ocean) while experiencing the cultural chants, dances and songs from some of the many islands that comprise Polynesia. Valet parking is available. IOLANI PALACE Iolani Palace, the official residence of Hawaii’s monarchy, is a marvel of opulence, innovation and political intrigue. Meticulously restored to its former grandeur, this National Historic Landmark in Downtown Honolulu tells of a time when their Majesties, King Kalakaua, who built the palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, walked its celebrated halls. A variety of tours are available and reservations are recommended. 364 South King Street. iolanipalace.org HAWAII THEATRE CENTER The iconic Hawaii Theatre has played a significant role in Honolulu’s cultural landscape since 1922. The mission of the non-profit Hawaii Theatre Center, established in 1984, is to provide a broad range of entertainment, cultural and educational experiences; promote redevelopment and revitalization of downtown Honolulu/Chinatown; and enhance the quality of life in Honolulu. To view their current shows, check on their website. 1130 Bethel St. hawaiitheatre.com Downtown & Chinatown 217 Especially among visitors and new residents, there is often confusion that “Downtown” is the same place as Waikiki. It’s quite the contrary, however, as Waikiki is Honolulu’s world-famous urban resort destination, while Downtown is the city’s government and financial district – with a trendy Chinatown at its Ewa edge. In Downtown Honolulu, historic landmarks are sprinkled among skyscraperlined thoroughfares bustling with modern businesses and commerce. In Chinatown, remnants of the area’s sketchy red-light district past remain – along with traditional Chinese markets and herbalists. The constant flow in Chinatown of new and older trendy restaurants, bars, shops and art galleries make it one of Honolulu’s hippest places to be. The Downtown Honolulu area, which includes Chinatown, is roughly bordered by River Street on the west, South Street on the east, South Vineyard Boulevard on the north and the Pacific Ocean on the south. Buses and expected Honolulu Rail stops – along with bike paths and pedestrian walkways – add to the ease of access to the area. Downtown parking is at a premium, although metered street parking and public and private for-pay lots are available. POLYNESIANS ARRIVAL TO ROYAL CAPITAL TO INTERNATIONAL HUB Honolulu means “sheltered harbor” in Hawaiian, and oral history indicates the original Polynesian migrants settled on Honolulu’s beautiful shores in the 11th century. After Kamehameha I conquered Oahu, he moved his royal court to Waikiki in 1804, later relocating to downtown Honolulu in 1809 for three years. In 1845, Honolulu became the permanent capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, and iconic buildings, such as Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, ‘Iolani Palace, and Ali‘iolani Hale, were erected. Throughout the 19th century, foreign merchant ships and American missionaries arrived in Honolulu harbor, establishing businesses and also contributing to the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1883, leading to Hawaii’s annexation by the United States in 1898. However, Honolulu 1 2 3
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