Top 10 Attractions in Hilo

1. Rainbow Falls: Rainbow Falls is a stunning waterfall located just a few minutes from downtown Hilo. Its name comes from the rainbows visible in the mist created by the tall waterfall. It is easily accessible and offers beautiful views.

2. Akaka Falls State Park: Akaka Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls on the Big Island. It plunges a staggering 442 feet into a lush gorge. The park features a scenic loop trail through a tropical rainforest, providing excellent photo opportunities.

3. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Situated a short drive from Hilo, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can witness volcanic landscapes, craters, lava tubes, and even witness active lava flows.

4. Mauna Kea Summit: Reaching an elevation of 13,796 feet, Mauna Kea is one of the best places for stargazing on Earth. Visitors can take guided tours to the summit, where they can marvel at breathtaking views of the night sky and observe celestial objects through powerful telescopes.

5. Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo: Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo is the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in the United States. It spans over 12 acres and is home to a diverse array of animals, including monkeys, tigers, lemurs, and various bird species.

6. Liliuokalani Gardens: Liliuokalani Gardens is a picturesque Japanese garden encompassing 30 acres. It features traditional Japanese bridges, pagodas, koi ponds, and native Hawaiian plants. A walk through this serene garden offers tranquility and stunning views of Hilo Bay.

7. Pacific Tsunami Museum: Hilo has a history of devastating tsunamis. The Pacific Tsunami Museum provides insights into these natural disasters and educates visitors about tsunami preparedness. It showcases artifacts, photos, and personal accounts, offering a deeply educational experience.

8. Mokupapapa Discovery Center: This unique center serves as a gateway to the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Visitors can learn about Hawaii’s rich marine biodiversity, coral reefs, and the significance of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Interactive exhibits make the visit informative and enjoyable.

9. Imiloa Astronomy Center: Imiloa Astronomy Center is a fascinating blend of astronomy, culture, and science. It offers interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and displays showcasing the connection between Hawaiian culture and the study of the universe.

10. Lyman Museum and Mission House: The Lyman Museum and Mission House provides a glimpse into the history of Hilo and the Pacific region. It houses exhibits on Hawaiian culture, geology, natural history, and showcases the 19th-century missionary life.