Honolulu Downtown Walking Tour (Self Guided), Honolulu

Honolulu is the largest city in Hawaii and the state's capital. Visitors flock here to enjoy the pristine beaches, beautiful scenery and unique culture. There is much to see and do in Honolulu.

The first residents of Honolulu were probably settled during the 11th century. These Polynesian migrants are thought to have come from Tahiti. King Kamehameha I conquered Oahu and claimed the area around Waikiki in 1804. Though the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom moved over the years, it was eventually King Kamehameha III who established a permanent center of power in Honolulu with the erection of the Iolani Palace.

Hawaii was annexed by the United States in 1898, however, the statehood didn't follow until 1959. Within that time, Hawaii had suffered no shortage of tragedies. The Chinatown fire of 1900 burned for 17 days, destroying more than 4,000 homes over a span of 38 acres. This disaster is often overshadowed by the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II that caused 2,403 deaths. Today more than two million people visit the Pearl Harbor National Monument each year to commemorate the event.

Although Hawaii is best known for its beautiful beaches and seaside activities, the Honolulu downtown is also rich in historical and architectural landmarks. The Iolani Palace is by far one of the top attractions. Other standouts not to be missed include the House of Heavenly Kings, City Hall and the Kawaiahao Church. If you want to learn more about the early connection between the Hawaiian kingdom and the continental US, visit the Hawaiian Mission Houses and the Washington Place.

This self-guided walking tour takes you to explore the must-see attractions, historical sites and architectural highlights in downtown Honolulu.