Hawaii is undoubtedly one of the world’s most unique places owing to its stunning nature, the flavor of Polynesian culture, and status as a major crossroad in the Pacific Ocean. It’s not surprising that numerous museums have been established to preserve what makes the state so special. If you’re in Waipahu, HI, here are some of the best museums on Oahu that you’ll have easy access to!
3 of the Best Museums in Driving Distance of Waipahu, HI
1. USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
Located on the eastern side of Pearl Harbor on 11 Arizona Memorial Drive, this establishment features the Balao-class attack submarine that it’s named after and the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. The USS Bowfin was launched one year after the attack on Pearl Harbor and undertook many missions for the US Navy in the Pacific theater. Today, Visitors can take guided tours on the well-preserved ship, which still houses a number of artifacts.
The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum is adjacent to the USS Bowfin and contains exhibits that chronicle the history of the Navy’s submarine forces as they operated during World War II, the Cold War, and modern times. Exhibits detailing submarine propulsion and navigation are especially fascinating! As you explore the outside, you’ll come across several interesting sights, such as the beautiful Waterfront Memorial and a reproduction of an early cruise missile.
2. Tropic Lightning Museum
The US Army’s 25th Infantry Division earned the nickname “Tropic Lightning” thanks to its reputation for making swift advancements during operations against Japanese forces. Taking that same name, this museum is dedicated to telling the famed unit’s story, including the use of the nearby Schofield Barracks as its home garrison. Several large collections of artifacts show how the division’s choice of uniforms and equipment has evolved over time.
Just outside of the building, various armored vehicles, including an M4 Sherman, and towed artillery pieces can be viewed. The Tropic Lightning Museum is located at 361 Waianae Avenue. As the museum is on an active military installation, civilians should first enter through Lyman Gate, directly across from Wheeler Army Airfield.
3. Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum on 1525 Bernice Street is where you’ll want to head first if you want to learn about Hawaii’s geologic and cultural past in one place. It’s also considered to be the state’s largest museum, holding a vast collection of Polynesian relics and millions of plant and animal specimens. The Hawaiian Hall is one of the first areas guests will visit, where it details the major realms of Hawaiian mythology.
Other permanent galleries display various watercraft that early Oceanic people used to explore the Pacific, Hawaiian artwork from the 1800s, and flora from the island chain’s delicate ecosystem.
After your first visit to any of these fine museums, you’ll want to return again and again in order fully experience them! Make sure you still have time for a stop at Tony Hyundai Waipio, so you can take one of the new models for a test drive!
Image by Hermann Traub from Pixabay
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