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Imiloa Astronomy Center
Museum

Imiloa Astronomy Center

Big Island of Hawaii
4.6
(780 reviews)
3
Tours Available
$25
Adult Entry
3 hours
Recommended Duration
March-May, September-November
Best Time

Overview

Imiloa Astronomy Center is an interactive science center that explores the wonders of Hawaiian culture and astronomy. Located in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, it offers a unique blend of education and entertainment.

Imiloa Astronomy Center is significant for its role in promoting education and awareness about Hawaiian culture and astronomy. It serves as a bridge between the past and the future, showcasing the rich history of Hawaiian astronomy and the cutting-edge research being conducted at the Mauna Kea Observatories.

Science Museum Cultural Center

Location

Address

600 Imiloa Place, Hilo, Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii

Neighborhood: Hilo

Coordinates

19.704500, -155.079500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
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 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
sunday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Admission

Adults
$25
Children
$12

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler weather

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
1 hour
Recommended
3 hours
Full Experience
full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

  • • Hawaiian cultural events
  • • Astronomy programs

summer

warm

  • • Extended summer hours
  • • Special exhibitions

autumn

cool

  • • Fall astronomy programs
  • • Cultural demonstrations

winter

rainy

  • • Holiday exhibits
  • • Winter astronomy programs

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Book tickets in advance
  • Bring ID
  • Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID Printed or digital tickets Water

recommended

Camera Sunscreen Comfortable shoes

seasonal

Light jacket Umbrella

not allowed

Large bags Drones Professional photography equipment

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

  • • Stairs and uneven surfaces in some areas

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $25
parking $5
food $15
souvenirs $20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

  • • 1-2 weeks
  • • official website
  • • 48 hours
  • • available

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Imiloa Astronomy Center App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Event calendar, Ticket booking

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Exhibition areas

Charging Stations: Rest areas and cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Hilo International Airport (ITO)

Distance: 6 km

Travel Time: 10 minutes

taxi
$20 10 min
public_transport
$2.50 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 3 km

bus
$2 10 min
taxi
$10 5 min
Walking
Free 30 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Deep connection to Hawaiian culture and astronomy

Historical Significance: Important events and research related to Hawaiian astronomy

Insider Tips

  • Free entry early morning for residents
  • Best local food at the on-site cafe
  • Special events for locals

Local Recommendations

  • • Try local shave ice
  • • Ask for guide John or Mary
  • • Visit nearby Lyman Museum

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Aloha
thank_you Mahalo
where_is Aia i hā?
how_much Pēhea kēia?
beautiful Nōho i ke aloha
ticket Kauohu

Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for the building's architecture

Result: Great shot of the entrance with the surrounding gardens

#imiloa #astronomy #hilo #hawaii #travel

Planetarium

Best Time: Any time

Tips: Capture the interior with the dome and stars

Result: Unique shot of the planetarium

#imiloa #planetarium #stars #hawaii #travel

Exterior gardens

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Use the natural light to highlight the plants and sculptures

Result: Beautiful garden shots with the building in the background

#imiloa #gardens #hilo #hawaii #travel

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Exhibition spaces, Planetarium (without flash)
prohibited areas None
flash photography not allowed in the planetarium and exhibition spaces
commercial photography permit needed for commercial use
drone policy prohibited without prior approval
tripod policy restricted, tripods allowed in outdoor areas only
selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Lyman Museum

Distance: 0.5km

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Hilo Farmers Market

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Market

Rainbow Falls

Distance: 4km

Walking: 50 min

Type: Waterfall

Reviews

4.6

Based on 780 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Book online for discounts"
  • "Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds"
  • "Don't miss the planetarium show"

Contact Information

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Quick Info

Available Tours

3

Rating

4.6 / 5.0

Reviews

780

Adult Entry

$25

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