Capitol Modern image

Capitol Modern

Tourist attraction Art museum

Historic hotel space with multiple galleries featuring artistic visions of Hawaii by Hawaiians. People often mention museum, visit, free, Hawaii, location, floor, view, local, great, Hawaiian,


Address

250 South Hotel St Second Floor, 250 S Hotel St #5, Honolulu, HI 96813

Website

www.capitolmodern.org

Contact

(808) 586-0900

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (551 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM to 4 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: museum (16) visit (15) free (15) Hawaii (10) location (9) floor (8) view (8) local (8) great (8) Hawaiian (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Jakob Z. 2 years ago on Google
    Another must visit location while visiting Oahu. This museum showcases art from Hawaiian artists. The main entrance is on Richards street, there is a small gate to enter the property, from there you go in and to the left are stairs and an elevator to take you up to the second floor. A guard will take your temperature and you must leave all bags with the guards. Cameras are okay to bring. There are two galleries to view art and the sculpture garden is in the back fenced area. The best part is that this is a free museum. You’re hole family can come here and enjoy the exhibits. As a reminder though, please don’t let your kids go wild. It’s just not the place for that. Go and enjoy Hawaiian art!
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Chris B. 2 months ago on Google • 1452 reviews New
    Security was friendly. Museum is free. There isn't really parking, so that is a bummer. Artwork is beautiful with a good variety. Place is on the small side, but is well curated. No gift shop or souvenir magnet.

  • 5/5 Dee Y. 1 year ago on Google
    Small but powerful art museum by local artists. Recommend if you are in the area. Free entry and will take ~45mins to cover. Difficult to find parking nearby.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ayla S. 7 months ago on Google • 108 reviews
    This museum is small & takes less than an hour to go through. It's free though, in a breathtaking historic building, featuring Hawaiian art. Everything from kapa cloths to digital artwork. The descriptions of the pieces are informative. While I wouldn't suggest making a special trip if you're a tourist, it's a lovely little day trip if you want to spend time doing something that won't take all day. There aren't a lot of people, less than a dozen on a Saturday. As stated on the website, no food or drinks, & security will ask you. The gallery is on the second floor. The first floor has a cafe & vending machines, so get a drink on the way out. Through the back is the small sculpture garden with half a dozen statues. No parking here. You'll need to use a parking garage nearby (whichever one you prefer-Ali'i on Alakea is the closest).
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bert K. 2 years ago on Google
    A museum truly for the general public. Visiting felt like entering a mini-Smithsonian (free admission) that’s emerging and under development. Of the people and for the people. During last summer’s visit we noticed that there was no gift shop, and no floor staff, other than at main desk. Only security guards. However, the guards don’t “hover” among visitors. Uncrowded, lots of time to read descriptions and view works up close. Features major artists living in or connected to Hawaii as well as student works of all ages. Well known and highly regarded local artisans in painting, sculpture, ceramics and textile design were featured. A separate room showcased Native Hawaiian artists and their works. Special exhibits such as Children’s Day flying carp “koi nobori” are also featured. Cleanliness of exhibition areas were uneven, especially in unused spaces. Great value. Casual, relaxing atmosphere. Photo (non-flash) encouraged. Attendants not hovering around you. On-street or municipal metered parking available nearby. Some public parking stalls available behind ʻIolani Palace. Easily accessible by bus. Unforgettable.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 cindy a. 1 year ago on Google
    The building of Hawaii State Art Museum is an authentic masterpiece of art! I enjoyed taking photos of it.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Benson L. 5 months ago on Google • 140 reviews
    Free access. Awesome place to enjoy art and pass your time in hawaii
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sherry 4 months ago on Google • 115 reviews
    People is nice here, the environment is comfortable. It is free to visit and accept donation.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Karlen R. 5 months ago on Google • 110 reviews
    It's a fantastic art museum, particularly if you want to see 20th Century artists and the vast collection of what the State holds in it's "Art in Public Places" depository. What gets put on display is always impressive and don't miss going to the sculpture garden in the back. I still don't understand the new branding but it's on my shortlist of places I take out of town friends when they visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jesse W. 5 months ago on Google • 255 reviews
    Beautiful venue in the middle of Honolulu, usually a art museum but this night turned into a great setting for a wedding. Staff was friendly, everything was up-kept nice and clean.

  • 5/5 Vasilisa Z. 1 year ago on Google • 12 reviews
    I love museums and this one is great atmosphere and friendly stuff which I appreciate, also met an artist who had residency there. The collection is not big, to visit museum is free. I recommend. I am working on my own art and I'm looking forward to exhibit there one day
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jamie 2 years ago on Google
    Fantastic contemporary art exhibit featuring various local Hawaiian artists. Especially considering that the entry fee is free, the exhibit is well curated, and each piece comes with a descriptive plaque. A great place to spend an hour or two for art enthusiasts.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zech Daddyyy G. 7 years ago on Google
    I don't live on honalulu I would go there but I live in new mexico but I have watched Hawaii 5-0 and I would love to go there and meet the actors
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pinghui R. 2 years ago on Google
    Here is the one of my favorite places in Hawaii, even only one floor, but has many nice art works from local artists!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 G T. 4 years ago on Google
    You've probably seen it in Hawaii FIVE 0. Home of the Hawaii Supreme Court. Across from Iolani palace. Has a small museum on the first floor. Very old and well upkept building that is part of Hawaii's history.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Michelle K. 4 years ago on Google
    Went to the open house celebrating the Biennial. My docent was very knowledgeable about the judicial history.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Cakey C. 2 years ago on Google
    Very quick visit. It shouldn't take you more than 30 mins to explore 2 sections of the gallery. Fun art work to explore.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eugene B. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazingly large tree and what a great view of the Arizona monument!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Skyler G. 11 years ago on Google
    I felt a resounding sense of respect standing by the statue of King Kamehameha V. I don't know his story, but the design and placement of the sculpture makes it a sight to see while visiting. During the daytime people put out a box of nuts tied to fortunes that bring good luck. It's a fun location to stop at and I highly recommend it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 liu y. 1 year ago on Google
    An interesting place to contrast after visiting the war memorial at Punchbowl Crater.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael J. 4 years ago on Google
    Fantastic location and the view is incredible. However, a few things to note. First, this at the end of a street in a populated neighborhood for the families of our service members. Be respectful, quiet, and avoid making loud noises - as you don't know if the service member works an alternative shift. Probably best to avoid going entirely. Second, avoid putting coins on the memorial. The penny's stain the white paint and does not add to the aesthetics - I understand the meaning behind the coins, but frankly, take your money and donate to a charity that helps our service members instead.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nori S. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) It's always spectacular (Original) いつ見ても壮観
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Raechel A. 8 months ago on Google • 113 reviews
    Very small art gallery. It's something you do after you've lived here for a few years and have done everything else on the island. The security guard confiscated my hydro flask, which was really annoying. As if I can't be trusted to not spill or something. Then he asked if I had any food in my very small purse that only holds a hydro flask. Really? What do you think I'm hiding in there? Do you think I'm going to pull out a sandwich and start chomping down while looking at art? Or are you afraid that I'll suddenly get a hankering for a protein bar and get a crumb on the floor? What about a cough drop... do you want to strip search me while you're at it just Incase I have a lolly in my pocket? Just asking people to not eat or drink should be sufficient. At least it's air conditioned and had bathrooms, and was free.

  • 5/5 Julia P. 3 months ago on Google • 14 reviews New
    This is a free museum with art from many graduates and professors from the University of Hawaii. The building itself is gorgeous and it’s directly across from Iolani Palace

  • 4/5 Lucia C. 3 years ago on Google
    Cute museum, appears new and/or under construction on lower floors but the upper floor is beautiful! Nice courtyard as well

  • 5/5 Azalea P. 8 months ago on Google
    Loved seeing local art. Especially the kids of Hawaiis art. It doesn't take long to go through, but it's beautiful in its own way!

  • 5/5 Christina �. 2 years ago on Google
    Museum I literally stumbled upon! Lots of great pieces, but was sad to learn that they've been struggling due to COVID. If you are in Honolulu, I strongly recommend a visit...and its FREE!

  • 5/5 Windy H. 2 years ago on Google
    I love all art museum no matter where I travel it's a must

  • 5/5 Cassandra K. 1 year ago on Google
    So glad we stopped in during our first day in Honolulu. The staff were so friendly.

  • 5/5 Hau'olilani H. 1 year ago on Google
    We're having a Wedding here on Saturday! So excited to share more photos!

  • 5/5 Jubilee S. 5 years ago on Google
    I love this museum! It’s free admission and visually captivating. Not only is the building architecture stunning but the art it holds within is also breathtaking. It’s very peaceful. When you go upstairs you have to give your bag to the guard at the desk. Downstairs they have a cafeteria and gift shop. The bathrooms are very nice.

  • 5/5 emi c. 1 year ago on Google
    A hidden gem in Honolulu. A nice way to spend a couple of hours learning about some of the local artistry. Excellent helpful staff from the security staff on up. On Fridays, there are different local events for all who visit. Inquire with a phone call or look online.

  • 5/5 Darlene M. 5 years ago on Google
    I would live here lol

  • 5/5 GHøSTy Y. 1 year ago on Google
    This was for a school trip, but I highly do recommend coming in and checking out the Hawaii State Art Museum it's certainly worth a visit especially for the artistic people out there.

  • 5/5 Kort P. 1 year ago on Google
    It’s not too big, but it’s free so who cares! Had fun taking the kids while touring downtown.

  • 5/5 Pebs F. 10 months ago on Google
    I was welcomed by Paula who enthused passion about where she worked which in turn made my experience all the more wonderful. Sublime architecture and hints of art deco everywhere... a must-see for all you heritage lovers. Thank you Paula 👍 From Paula (also), Australia

  • 1/5 marsilla f. 10 months ago on Google
    They should be entrance ramp access for strollers/ disabled. They only have to add that on the side of entrance. Toilet is tearing down. Some days you need to ask for key to use. It should be open since this is public space. They should at least have active cafe open everyday or little shop here. It looks like such a waste of space and lonely museum.

  • 3/5 Ernst G. 9 months ago on Google
    It's a pleasant spot to visit. Entrance is free. But collection is not big. You can spend there 25-30 mins at most.

  • 3/5 Sonia L. 2 years ago on Google
    Some of the art is unique and/ or interesting to gaze upon. Museum is free. Recommendation: Mellow Hawaiian music would be nice to hear as you walk around.

  • 4/5 Marisol B. 5 years ago on Google
    Can only access if have DoD identification/base privileges

  • 5/5 Paulness 3 years ago on Google
    This is a very old Banyan tree on Ford Island. Like most other reviews mention, be respectful of the location, this is an active military community. Second, the USS Arizona is right off the shoreline here which is hollowed military waters. The view of the memorial is awesome. The tree is pretty impressive as well, unfortunately, its pretty scarred from people carving their names and other words into the tree. Very historical and impressive.

  • 5/5 Trevor B. 3 years ago on Google
    Very cool location under the tree with a great view of the Arizona.

  • 5/5 Amy L. 4 years ago on Google
    It's a big beautiful banyan tree. Military neighborhood, so be respectful. Only military, retired and DOD have access. Lovely view of the Arizona Memorial. Great picture site

  • 5/5 Richard J. 4 years ago on Google
    Very peaceful location with lots of shade. This location has a great view of the Arizona Memorial. Popular location for promotions, etc.

  • 5/5 Christopher K. 5 years ago on Google
    Quiet, peaceful and serene. Great place to sit and reflect.

  • 5/5 Matthew B. 5 years ago on Google
    Peaceful and serene location (opposite of USS Arizona memorial; shore side - Ford Island) for such a historical national tradgedy. A must see if you can. This site is on private property and very difficult to access. Very beautiful, with historical housing; activly being lived in. As much as it's worth to see in person, it's worth the same to leave it as it is, let it retain it's own dignity and leave it in peace. I'm not leaving a picture. A memory is good enough.

  • 5/5 Bill R. 4 years ago on Google
    The King Kamehameha statue is at it’s best across the street from the only Royal Palace in the United States. When it is covered in flowers🌺 ,it’s fantastic. Thanks for reading my review and a thumbs up would increase my google rating. Aloha and good luck to you and yours.

  • 5/5 Lakshmikantha Rao P M. 4 years ago on Google
    Top class traditional court facility we could see live. The Victorian furniture and style is showcased in every inch of the court building. Lot of old pictures which are historic are displayed for visitors to see.

  • 5/5 Greg E. 4 years ago on Google
    As with everything in Hawaii it is a beautiful place and a must see . I had see the place on tv but visiting in person is am experience.

  • 5/5 Laura G. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place to visit, very interesting. The Staff super nice. A lot of information. 📖

  • 5/5 M. F. 4 years ago on Google
    Excellent stop for anyone interested in local history and the justice system.

  • 5/5 Stacey J. 4 years ago on Google
    Great place to take in the site play tours for the day.

  • 5/5 Nathan S. 5 years ago on Google
    Definitely worth visiting. Parking is kind of expensive and don't plan on spending too long here as it doesn't take terribly long to see what there is to see. Definitely worth a visit.

  • 5/5 Jordan C. 3 years ago on Google
    Five o HQ

  • 4/5 Christian F. 4 years ago on Google
    Very interesting museum.

  • 5/5 Kathy B. 4 years ago on Google
    Learned a lot about Hawaiian history.

  • 4/5 Edward S. 5 years ago on Google
    Very interesting part of Hawaii's history

  • 5/5 Kathryn D. 6 years ago on Google
    So glad I had the opportunity to visit, and everyone was so great with our girl scouts.

  • 5/5 Justin S. 7 years ago on Google
    Hidden gem free spot

  • 4/5 vupam1 t. 8 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) King kamehameha statue landmark (Original) 國王kamehameha雕像地標

  • 5/5 Andrej A. 9 years ago on Google
    I came to see this place because of hawaii five-o.

  • 5/5 Felipe G. 9 years ago on Google
    I love this place Makes me remember Hawaii Five-0

  • 5/5 David A. 10 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Got a forca especial !!!!! (Original) Gavai forca especial!!!!!

  • 5/5 ANTONIO P. 11 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) This is where Master Roshi's house should be ... (Original) Por aqui deve de estar la casa del maestro Roshi......

  • 5/5 Sharee H. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a wonderful place to visit on your vacation. Beautiful art and sculpture! I highly recommend!

  • 5/5 Jeronimo L. 2 years ago on Google
    Small collection but varied. Some good pieces and well arranged. Entrance is free. Well worth the visit.

  • 1/5 Nancy Y. 3 months ago on Google • 1 review New
    This is a review for the admin staff not the museum. Completely unresponsive to my calls and emails to inquire about renting the facility for a graduation ceremony. I tried for 6 months! The only email I got back was to direct me to another email that I already emailed multiple times. I even went in person TWICE and security said I was not allowed to meet them, and I have to make an appointment. But I couldn't make an appointment because no one answered my calls or emails! The security felt bad for me and helped me call every one of their contacts but only got voicemails. Completely absurd. Don't ever try to host your events here, would be a waste of your time.


Call (808) 586-0900 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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