arrived at Honolulu Harbor. They established businesses and also contributed to the overthrow of the Hawaiian Monarchy in 1883, leading to Hawaii’s annexation by the United States in 1898. However, Honolulu has remained 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. Adjacent to the Aloha Tower Marketplace, you'll find a variety of cafes and restaurants, including the beloved Old Spaghetti Factory. Ka Moana Luau is an Aloha Tower must! With 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 regal hallways. Reservations are recommended for the variety of trees. HAWAII THEATRE CENTER The iconic Hawaii Theatre has played a significant role in Honolulu’s cultural landscape since 1922. Since 1984, the non-profit center’s mission is to provide a broad range of entertainment, cultural and educational experiences, and to promote Downtown & Chinatown 219 Especially Oahu visitors and new residents are often confused that “Downtown” and “Waikiki” are one-in-the-same locations. It’s quite the contrary, however. 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. Downtown Honolulu’s historic landmarks are sprinkled among skyscraperlined thoroughfares bustling with modern businesses and commerce. In Chinatown, remnants of the neighborhood’s sketchy redlight 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 hang. The Downtown Honolulu area, which includes Chinatown, is roughly bordered by River Street (Ewa), South Street (Diamond Head), South Vineyard Boulevard (Mauka) and the Pacific Ocean (Makai). Buses and expected Honolulu Rail stops – along with bike paths and pedestrian walk-ways – add to access ease. Parking is at a premium, although metered street parking and both 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 conquering Oahu, Kamehameha I moved his royal court to Waikiki in 1804 and relocated 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 Aliiolani Hale were erected. Throughout the 19th century, foreign merchant ships and American missionaries 1 2 3
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