Imiloa Astronomy Center

We loved this place! There is so much to see & learn. Plenty of hands on activities for children of all ages and lots of information stations and things to read. The theater dome is really cool and the shows are different and our guide was very knowledgeable and funny. The mural in the entrance is amazing and we loved how the culture is integrated into the lessons and traditional stories are passed down. I am considering a family year pass. The bathrooms are nice and there is an outside covered picnic table area so you can bring lunch and enjoy the day here. We went with our school class for field trip and we had the place to ourselves on a day they are usually closed. I saw there is a cafe area but it was not open when we went as it was not a regular, full-staff day. The parking lot seemed sufficient.

We came to this museum not knowing much about it. At $19 per ticket, we expected more. The museum is better suited for children. We attended a show about Mayan Skies in the planetarium which displayed impressive graphics. The museum does a good job of honoring Hawaiian culture which was really fascinating to learn about. However, it’s more about Hawaiian culture than astronomy at some points. If you’re an adult, you can plan to spend about 45 minutes in the museum. Overall, it was interesting but wish there was more on astronomy for $19. The layout of the museum was a little disorganized, it was difficult to know which exhibit you were in at some points or how the exhibit related to astronomy.

The entry fee of $19 per adult was worth every single cent. We had a close look at all the different well-organized exhibitions. We also went to the 3D cinema and learnt some many aspects of the Polynesian culture and history. It was great and a visit can be highly recommended. We visited the Center on a Sunday and it was not crowded at all. There is plenty of free parking just in front of the entrance.

First time visiting for the Dino exhibit. So organized, super clean, helpful staff. The bathrooms were very clean!! I love how they spaced out each dino and had information plaques and buttons to push. Gift shop had some really cute stuff, didnt visit the resturant this time, but will on the next visit. Lots of parking so no worries there. Two tickets were almost the same as the membership so I just bought that instead. Had to pay addition entry for the traveling exhibit, but it was worth it! 🦖

This was an excellent experience! I feel like I really learned a lot about how ancient Polynesians used astronomy to navigate the Pacific. This museum had a good mix of content for children and for adults. My only complaint is that the garden was a little confusing to navigate; a map would have been nice.

We loved this place! There is so much to see & learn. Plenty of hands on activities for children of all ages and lots of information stations and things to read. The theater dome is really cool and the shows are different and our guide was very knowledgeable and funny. The mural in the entrance is amazing and we loved how the culture is integrated into the lessons and traditional stories are passed down. I am considering a family year pass. The bathrooms are nice and there is an outside covered picnic table area so you can bring lunch and enjoy the day here. We went with our school class for field trip and we had the place to ourselves on a day they are usually closed. I saw there is a cafe area but it was not open when we went as it was not a regular, full-staff day. The parking lot seemed sufficient.

Not worth it. This place cannot decide whether it is a Hawaii history and culture center or a small university science exhibit. Both kids and adults in our party were bored after just an hour. Not enough interactive stuff for kids and the information for adults is not presented well. It is ok for a small town but if you are visiting from a place with large science museums, skip this one and enjoy Hawaiian nature instead.

10/13/2024 Imiloa Astronomy Center 600 'Imiloa Place Hilo, Hawaii 96720 I visit Hilo regularly but this is my first visit to this planetarium. I was very impressed, I've been to many and this one is top notch. The seat controls appear to be disabled and it would have been great to be able to recline the seat backs. I spent most of my time in the planetarium and saw four of the five shows with visiting a few of the exhibits between showings. Of my four shows I enjoyed the interactive Panana Kilo Hoku-Our Wayfinder's Compass program the most. It was informative, educational and entertaining; led by a very professional lecturer. I'm an engineering nerd. The keiki show was mostly accurate excepting for Tycho's ears sticking out of his space suit and would explode on the moon. If you are an astronomy buff, I'd recommend staying for at least 4 hours to take in the shows and exhibits. You can also have a great meal at the restaurant, which I reviewed separately. I saved the last show and the exhibits for the next visit, definite repeat. This would also be an excellent place to visit between your hotel checkout and late flight back to the mainland.

10/13/2024 Imiloa Astronomy Center 600 'Imiloa Place Hilo, Hawaii 96720 I visit Hilo regularly but this is my first visit to this planetarium. I was very impressed, I've been to many and this one is top notch. The seat controls appear to be disabled and it would have been great to be able to recline the seat backs. I spent most of my time in the planetarium and saw four of the five shows with visiting a few of the exhibits between showings. Of my four shows I enjoyed the interactive Panana Kilo Hoku-Our Wayfinder's Compass program the most. It was informative, educational and entertaining; led by a very professional lecturer. I'm an engineering nerd. The keiki show was mostly accurate excepting for Tycho's ears sticking out of his space suit and would explode on the moon. If you are an astronomy buff, I'd recommend staying for at least 4 hours to take in the shows and exhibits. You can also have a great meal at the restaurant, which I reviewed separately. I saved the last show and the exhibits for the next visit, definite repeat. This would also be an excellent place to visit between your hotel checkout and late flight back to the mainland.

Loved it. Being an astrophysicist, I found this center remarkable. I will reach out to them for speaking engagements so I can educate and amaze more than my students. Regards Beau Toichi

We are interested in astronomy and are also familiar with the amazing navigation skills of the Polynesians who sailed to Hawaii. Having said that, this museum was a great disappointment, especial considering the $19 admission. Just not much here. They must be supported by the university, since what they offer won't draw much interest.

Great place to spend an afternoon, totally disagree with those that say it is only for kids There are lots of things for kids, but also excellent information for adults about astronomy and the Polynesian Voyaging Society. The planetarium shows are really good and the new restaurant is the bomb! Get the calamari appetizer, super good!

Came here thinking it would be an interesting astronomy/planetarium experience. Did not come with kids, and the person who sold us tickets told us only after we bought them that this is basically for children. It would've been nice to know that before spending $19/person. Got there an hour before the show in the planetarium and lasted about 20 minutes before we couldn't stand it and had to leave. There just was not that much detailed content in any of the exhibits that was scientific or historical. Had more questions leaving there than I had going in- ex. they had a huge model of a ship, but not a lot of info about what it was used for. I can't speak to this experience for kids- although I'm not sure how much astronomy anyone gets out of the exhibits, but I would not recommend going here as an adult for your own enjoyment.

I think this is a very interesting museum, definitely geared toward children 10 and under. It is a small museum, interactive with a lot of things to touch for the younger audience. An older audience might not enjoy the museum as much as those with children. $19 per person is steep for the venue in my opinion.

A wonderful and educational place, and great way to spend a few hours if in Hilo area. i can't believe the other poster called this place "woke"? because they have Hawaiian Language and Culture? I bet that same guy complains that in Italy they speak Italian and everything is written in Italian. What a fool. Check it out. Great Hawaiian Language, cultural experience from Celestial Navigation to the Planetarium shows. Clean, beautiful.

Lovely museum in Hilo. Lots of hands on learning for kids of all ages. Definitely worth seeing. Highly well organized & maintained. My kids love the big interactive fish screen & the big building blocks.

Imiloa has shutdown and are looking for new people to run the restaurant. Has closed since May and could reopen in September. Maybe

It's a kids museum they don't say it at the front desk or on the website but everything is catered to kids so there is kid activities inside, just incase your someone trying to go do something to pass time it's not worth the 19 dollars, they do have a 3d dome screening room which is kinda cool and other screens around the place but that's kinda it also 1.5 stars

When in Hilo you gotta come check'em out. Especially for a show! The hostess during last summer was pretty awesome. As we watched the show inside the planetarium, she did a perfect narration not just of the stars and galaxies but she also made use of 'Olelo by naming the stars and constellations as Hawaiian Voyagers would. Their gift shop is pretty cool too,make sure to check it out and take a little memory from your trip or your visit. Kiddos would love this place but adults can have their share of fun. Overall, I recommend this place, they also have a restaurant but I had never eaten there so I don't know how good the food is. Although I must say, every time I visit, the restaurant is full. That must mean something good right? Also dont worry about parking as there are plenty of spaces.

Amazing place. If you want to learn about Hawaiian history and Astronomy check it out David Li review is flat out racist and wrong

Been here a few times just recently took my sister while we were on the island and she enjoyed it. 1st stop was the planetarium show. Make sure to check their site so you can choose the show you want to see. Very educational and interactive astronomy and cultural stations for all ages. Both times I've been here we stayed about 2 hrs. Restaurant is open. Bathrooms are clean. Check out the lik gift shop b4 you head out.

Wonderful place to visit! Went here with the family a few days ago. Very informative and interesting. The kids and adults had fun with the interactive games. This museum is nicely done and very well laid out. From learning about meteorites to seeing how the Hawaiians/Polynesians navigated their canoes was very interesting. Go here when you are in Hilo!

This astronomy center is amazing. It's crazy that the day I went, hardly anyone was there.... apparently a lot of local school groups come here during the school year, but since I went during the summer it was practically empty. There is a small gift shop, a planetarium, and then the learning center. I went with a large group of teachers and our guide was exceptional. We started in the planetarium, and I'll be honest, I may have fallen asleep for part of the presentation. The chairs are just so comfortable and it was nice and dark and cool. Lol. Then we headed over to the learning center, which I think does a great job in discussing both native Hawaiian culture and science. There are many interactive simulations, including some very high tech options. You can probably spend about 2-3 hours here. Make sure to stop by the gift shop on your way out and if youre hungry, I think there is a restaurant adjacent to the center. There is also plenty of parking and the UH hilo campus is just a short drive from downtown Hilo.

Four stars because their hours are so limited. I love the focus on Hawaiian culture. Beautiful place, restaurant is good too.

Rented a large space inside for a huge banquet party that was catered. No problems whatsoever.

If you are into Astronomy, yes I would go and visit, but don't expect the Smithsonian. It is a nice little museum with an good planetarium that offers a selection of shows. You don't need much time there. The show would be about the longest activity, but you could allow for 2 hours of time to fully review the exhibits and take in a show. It is not cheap, so if you are looking for budget things to do while playing tourist, you might skip this one. The grounds and property is very nice and enjoyable to walk around. There is a cafeteria, but not sure of what is offered or if it is any good. It is right outside of Hilo Bay, but does require some navigation to get to.

The funnest place in the galaxy for the entire family -- 'Imiloa lives up to its mission to serve as a place of life‐long learning where the power of Hawai'i's cultural traditions, its legacy of exploration, and the wonders of astronomy come together to provide inspiration and hope for generations. The exhibits are available in both English and Hawaiian language to provide better access to the information in the two official state languages. Although the subject of the exhibits are looking beyond our planet, the delivery of the material is done in an organic manner that reflects the cultural landscape the center sits upon. 'Imiloa is out of this world -- 'Imiloa Astronomy Center is a gathering place that advances the integration of science and indigenous culture. The diverse exhibits, programs and events harness leading technologies, environmental resources, and cultural practitioners to engage children, families, and communities in exciting ways. Talk about excellence on a truly planetary scale.

This is my first visit to a planetarium. I'm impressed by the shows presented. We saw the "Skies Above Hawaii" and "To Space and Back". You got chance to ask anything about astronomy and there's live explanations on the first show, and the later is mostly seeing a video.

Fun exhibits for the kids with all kinds of interactive things to do. We went to one of the shows that showed off the stars for that evening! The narrator was well versed and knowledgeable about the history of the constellations. The building is as super cool outside to, it was 2 giant cones! Way cool

We came up here several times for the Chinese buffet. It's a buffet, so it was overall not too bad. I liked many of their fresh salads. The setting to me is what really makes this place. The Astronomy Center is set above Hilo so you have a nice view looking down the mountain to the sea standing outside. It also can get cool up there, being up the mountain a bit. The dining room is set nicely with windows encircling a bit more that 180 degrees. The good thing is that plenty of light gets inside, the unfortunate thing is that the view down towards Hilo is blocked by trees and such. The dining room can get a bit busy as the day goes on, but there seemed to be plenty of space still. We didn't go through the rest of the facility, but we did purchase a nice locally made and printed shirt from their store. The facility has a cool cone-like modern design to it. The center overall seemed not too busy, which is understandable since Hilo isn't really a tourist Mecca. Parking is plentiful and free in their parking lot.

omg this place was amazing. I didn't come for dinner but I'll be back for it they have an amazing looking restaurant and buffet. I reserve my ticket days in advance for what was to be I am told a sold out show it was a Led Zeppelin light show and it was totally amazing when I got there there was a beautiful young lady who needed a ticket so the curator told her to wait for me giving her my ticket so it was an impromptu date was very nice just about an hour and a half laser light show with the encore and then they showed us a U2 valentine's day show previewGood stuff. i'll be back again

I love science museums and this one hits all the right notes. The planetarium show about Polynesian constellations and celestial navigation was really interesting. The exhibit space is mid-sized with lots of cool space, science, and Hawaiian culture exhibits. The gift shop and cafe are also worth checking out. Check out the schedule before you visit as you may want to watch more than one of the planetarium shows.

Small but quaint astronomy center. Was hoping for more exhibits and cool planetarium like features. We paid $38.00 for 2 adult tickets as entrance fees and to catch one of their exhibit shows "Sharing Hawai'I's Legacy of Exploration". Program was featured on the ceiling of a theater size medium but well sized room which has tilted chair backs so you can watch on the dome like ceiling. It was pretty cool to see the planets and stars in live action motion and the milky way and Orion's atmosphere. Prior to the show a Specialist provided us with some insights and details including some fun facts. The only thing that we didn't like about it was the beginning of the story told via the teleprompter that created confusion in regards to the creation of life and focused more on the big bang theory which many of us disagree with. They also used storytelling of Greek Goddesses fighting to gain power of the Islands of Hawaii which was a total joke. I think that if they wanted to portray some sort of mystery around how the planets were created and what caused volcanic eruptions then they should not jump into Greek folklore and confuse people with theories that do not exist. Instead do some real investigations on how Humanity and this planet actually came to exist instead of dumb theories. Some will tell you this center is worth visiting and others will tell you it's a waste of time and money.

This museum only opened about a year ago. The buildings are cone shaped (to look like mountains, since that's where the observatories are located) and made out of titanium. Though it might not look it, the surrounding foliage is made up of about 80 different species of native Hawaiian plants. There is ample parking and a "cafe". Since the cafe is run by Marriot, I didn't bother trying the food, but there definately is food available. My grandfather says the food is good, but he's not very picky. Who knows, maybe it is good. The restrooms are clean. I think it's a worthwhile experience to visit this museum, especially if you are into astronomy/physics, or if you are from Hawaii. Astronomy brings in a lot of money to the Big Island's economy. The observatories on the mountain, "Maunakea", are basically the best in the world. The 'Imiloa museum has lots of neat interactive displays, including a "4D" mini-theater. All displays include text written in both Hawaiian and English. The planetarium show was really good, and apparently they have several different shows they do in the planetarium, including a special one around Christmas time. If you are on the Big Island, you owe it to yourself to visit this museum. My only critisism would be that some of the displays have these little books that go with them. I would think a lot of people would be lazy like me and not want to try to read the regular-sized font in somewhat dim lighting.

Wonderful place to begin to understand how Hawaiians' used the Stars to Navigate. So much information to retain. Much return and learn more.

Great place to see and learn about the stars and Hawaiian culture and history. Great for families. Exhibits are well done.

Imiloa is a super contribution to the town of Hilo. It's shiny and new for one thing, and in sleepy Hilo town that is quite significant because the only shiny new competition around here is Target and Safeway. It's also very educational, of course, and tastefully blends and addresses issue of Astronomy and Hawaiian culture. Imiloa is also quite a bit more fun for the keiki than the Tsunami or Lyman Museums. It's very interactive and is bound to have at least a couple of exhibitions that amaze your kids. My personal favorites are the entrance exhibit, the cosmic kitchen, and the 4D theater. Oh, just a helpful hint, there's only one set of restrooms (right by the front desk), so try to go before you get into the exhibits. Otherwise you'll have to backtrack or charge ahead through all the exhibits if you have to go while you're in the exhibition hall.

Very interesting place. We missed seeing the movie but did get to spend some time in the museum. Lots of hands-on things to do. Ton of things to learn. Loved it! The garden outside is cute but nothing to write home about. The gift shop was very over priced! (Most are)There were a few things we wanted but they were out of everything we saw that we wanted (4 t-shirts, 4 posters, scarf and 2 books) so I took pics and got the info from their display items. Found it all on line less then half of what they were asking. Restaurant next to this place is delicious.

This was our second visit and every time we go we have a great time, something new to see on every visit! This visit we arrived on Sunday Morning driving on the old Saddle Back Road, gotta be careful about speeding because they are out there to write you a ticket! So, we had the Buffet and lots of food to eat and good price too! Pasteries, fruits, salads, chicken, fish, and desserts. The best part was how friendly they were from the Hostess to the Waitress, all very warm and treat you like family (only family let you eat free.... There is a exhibit for children and adults can learn too, tons of inter-active exhibits. Bring along some questions about Astronomy because they can answer a ton of them. Good show on stars above Kona, and lots of questions answered about Black- Holes and Galaxies. They even have a light show to the Stones, be a good place to see some great laser effects and listen to some Old Time Rock N Roll!

The gf and I came to check this place out one morning and I was mostly pleased with what we got. The actual museum was pretty small and we pushed through the exhibits pretty quickly. Most of the exhibits were geared towards younger kids but I was still able to find several that interested me. No doubt the coolest exhibits there were the children's science projects (they recently had a science fair). Science projects from kid's island wide were on display and let me tell you: These kids are smart! I could have looked at these all day but had to run to catch our show. The show we watched was alright and was on par with something you might see on the national geographic or discovery channel (albeit 3D and on a huge 360 degree screen). What was really cool was going over what the night sky would look like. Our presenter showed us many constellations and even a few planets that would be visible later that night. Because the place is mostly geared towards kids I would either suggest bringing some with you or allowing your inner 12-year old to escape for an afternoon. 4 stars for learning!

The Imiloa Astronomy Center is a astronomy and Hawaiian culture museum located on the University of Hawaii-Hilo and near the base operations for many of the telescopes that operate at the summit of Mauna Kea. The center features exhibits on Hawaiian culture, particularly the influence the culture has over the summit of Mauna Kea. In addition it blends it with astronomical exhibits and the developments that the telescopes of Mauna Kea have produced. There is also a planetarium which features a selection of shows throughout the day. The gardens and the structures are very interesting to view. There is also a restaurant in the complex which appeared to be very busy. Prices to view the exhibits are decent and the offer discounts for Hawaii residents and University of Hawaii students.

Excellent interactive place for both kids and adults. It combines the heavenly skies with the intricate culture of Hawaii. Be prepared to spend about 2 hours here if you want to see the basics. There are a lot of videos and fun things that you can interact with to experience astronomy combined with Hawaiian culture. There is a "taxi" that travels the universe, a test to see how well you know the solar system, finding life in a galaxy, and many more things. There is also a 4D video which is very cool to see and its just about 5 mins long. However, the star of this place is the Planetarium, which hosts their main show Mauna Kea. This show presents the legend of Pele and her trip to make a home in Hawaii and how man discovered this place. They also show how they used the heavens to guide them to Hawaii and how they affect their life. The video is about 45 mins and in the end, the narrator shows how the current night sky will look like and where the constellations are. So if you have about 2-3 hours handy, come enjoy this place before 11 when the main show is presented. If you have a whole day or can't make it in the morning, then go for the afternoon shows.

You can't beat the price for this delightful buffet above Hilo town. Great for family celebrations (which was why we were there!) or a gathering of friends. It can get busy by 11am, but we always try to make it there as soon as they open. The wait staff was friendly and helpful, and our used dishes disappeared as soon as we were done. You can also order from the menu, which is good when you're eating with picky children! The food was good, and I could have just eaten from the salad bar (but I didn't! .)

The planetarium show was good and afterward I particularly liked the description of the current night sky and how to find the planets and constellations currently viewable - this was not recorded but was given by a live presenter. Our impression of the interactive displays was mixed - some were interesting, others were more geared toward kids, and some were pretty complicated and we couldn't figure out what to do/how to operate them. At some point a volunteer came up to us and pointed out a display we hadn't seen yet and we were able to ask him a lot of questions and he proceeded to show us several additional displays and told us more than was presented on the display panels, etc. We really appreciated his time and interest! In all, we weren't as blown away by the astronomy center as we had hoped to be, but it would be a good few hours to take kids, particularly on a rainy afternoon.

Good place to go if you have kids or are a science enthusiast. Paid admission got a ticket to one of three shows. I saw one on black holes, which was followed by an expert giving us a crash course on stargazing. There were a few other exhibits and a 3D show as well. You might be able to spend two hours here (including the one hour show)...maybe 3 if you really stretch it. I enjoyed it, but I don't think I'd come back without kids.

Came here on a recommendation from a co-worker but was saddened to learn that it's kind of geared toward kids (thought it was for all ages). As someone with a reasonably strong astronomy background, there wasn't a ton for me to take away from it. All in all, though, it's a nice museum for kids with good exhibits. You can learn a lot about astronomy before heading up to the observatory nearby.

Very fun and educational place. The planetarium had a good show on Orion. The interactive parts were good for kids to. There was enough to keep my 9 year old son entertained yet my 15 year old daughter was good too. The gift shop is reasonably priced and I like there molecule selection of jewelry.

We spent a warm afternoon learning about all the observatories that are located on Maine kea. This center was full of information and we enjoyed it. We found the restaurant to be ok. They served an all you can eat Chinese buffet for $17 per head

With two kids, 16 and 19, this is pretty plain. Can see everything in no time. Waiting for planetarium show now. I think the cashier knew we would be bored so gave us two bucks off each ticket. Don't waste your money.

This is a wonderful place to visit when you are in Hilo. We love the planetarium shows are very interesting. Imiloa is a great place to take children because it is so interactive.

Had a great lunch at the cafe then walked through the numerous and varied exhibits and saw the show "Maunakea" I espically liked the after show presentation on the current night sky above Hawaii island. This experience will be enjoyable for both young and old! If you are a resident of Hawaii there is a hefty kamaina discount. Either way it is a fun way to spend the day.

This was an excellent stop for a rainy morning. The exhibit hall was very interactive and informative. I enjoyed the mixture of Hawaiian culture and astronomy. I then saw the night sky 3D presentation in the planetarium, it was a little slow, but informative.

The 3-D experience in the planetarium was great!! Definitely a must with keiki..especially if they're into science/astronomy..

A great learning center on astronomy. Also includes a great restaurant and a gift shop for last minute gifts. Try the astronaut ice cream. Yum!

We are here on a rainy day. Picture four kids ages 10 to 1, full of energy. Now picture a tired mom sitting comfortably for the first time all day. Hands on exhibits, lot of open room for kids to explore. Suddenly the day is not so gloomy. Admission includes one planetarium show. I wish I found this place an hour ago instead of waiting for the rain to pass. Highly recommend!

This place is truly one of a kind. The views and landscape here is super nice. Got 3D shows, interactive displays and a great restaurant called Sky Garden. If you're in Hilo, Imiloa Astronomy Center is certainly a place worth checking out.

I could've spent at least all day in here! I loved this place, I wish I would've allotted more time to visit here. My husband thought the night sky 3D planetarium presentation was 'too relaxing.' However, I loved it and was glad to have gone here the day after I went to Mauna Kea Stargazing.