Lyman Museum

Great little museum covering the rocks, minerals, geology, history of colonization of plants, animals, and people. Also, the industrial development of the island, political changes, and present culture. The museum also has a historic house tour but you need to reserve your place on a tour prior to arrival as they are booked days in advance.

First class museum, a must see for the cultural history of Hawaii, but als the geologic history. Compact, yet full of wonderfull exhibits. Reservation kept the crowd minimized.

Excellent small local museum that covers Hawaii natural history and political history. Great collection of minerals and gen stones. The guided tour of the Lyman house is well worth it.

Lovely museum, we did not take the mission house tour due to time constraint but we visited in June 2023 and it was a very nice museum, learned so much and especially love their mineral and shells exhibit. My husband loves all the historical facts and beautiful depictions of how Hawaii came to be. WWe

I had the pleasure of visiting the Lyman Museum in Hilo, Hawaii, and it exceeded all my expectations. As a Smithsonian-affiliated institution, it offers a comprehensive exploration of Hawaii's islands and its people. The exhibits on volcanic origins, unique flora and fauna, and the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture truly brought the story of Hawaii to life. The section dedicated to Hawaiian culture was a particular highlight for me. The artifacts and displays beautifully showcased the customs, traditions, and beliefs that have shaped the vibrant society of Hawaii today. It was an immersive experience that left me with a deep appreciation for the indigenous culture. I highly recommend taking the guided tour of the historic Lyman Mission House, the oldest wood frame building on the island. Stepping inside this piece of history was like stepping back in time. The tour provided fascinating insights into the lives of 19th-century missionaries and the challenges they faced.