Washington Place

Took a tour today with Sylvia as the docent. She was knowledgeable, witty, and full of aloha. The building/grounds are immaculate and full of history. Anyone that wants to learn more about the past/present of Hawaii should take this one hour tour. As a footnote, there’s a flock of rose-ringed parakeets that make the grounds of Washington Place their home.

I definitely would recommend coming here and getting the tour. It takes about 1.5 hours to do the tour, so plan parking accordingly.

Washington Place is a Greek Revival palace in the Hawaii Capital Historic District in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. It was where Queen Liliʻuokalani was arrested during the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Later it became the official residence of the Governor of Hawaiʻi. In 2007, it was designated as a National Historic Landmark. The current governor's residence was built in 2008 behind the historic residence, and is located on the same grounds as Washington Place.

William Little Lee made Washington Place his home from 1849–1854. Lee was instrumental in integrating a Western legal system in the Hawaiian Islands, based upon the Massachusetts model. Lee also authored the Great Mahele, which introduced private land ownership into Hawaiian culture.

Lydia Kamakaeha Pākī, the future Queen Liliʻuokalani and the Heir Apparent to the throne of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, married John Owen Dominis in 1862, making Washington Place the private residence of the princess and future queen. Another Massachusetts lawyer, Alfred S. Hartwell, rented a guest room from 1868 until 1872. He describes Mary as still expecting her husband to return any day. Mary Dominis died on April 25, 1889, and John Owen Dominis died on August 27, 1891, leaving the property to Liliʻuokalani, who had just become Queen after the death of her brother, King Kalākaua.

Had the rare opportunity to visit and see the newly completed renovations. Also met the governor and his wife.

I don't know the cost of the tours. I just work there when there's an event

Free tours to Washington Place, home of Hawaii's governor's, each Thursday.

This place is something most people don't think of as a historical place to visit. It is an important part of Hawaii's history leading up to modern times, but it wasn't until recent years did become open to the public for free tours every Thursday.

The tour space is very limited, so it is a good idea to plan in advance. You can easily book online to confirm available space. Again, it is free, so this is a no lose deal. The docents take you back in time to really help you understand everything about the property and events that have happened over time.

Being located next to the State Capital, Iolani Palace, and State Art Museum, you can make a day of it just touring Hawaii's history in one walkable area.

I don't recommend this for young children as it will be boring for them and they will disturb others who are trying to listen to the docent. This is a very adult and mentally mature type of activity.

The Docent that took us on the tour was very knowledgeable. The history of Washington Place is good for all of us that live in Hawaii should know. My Kupuna group from Kapolei enjoyed it. Some of the group has never been there and appreciated it. Good tour!!

Another great experience at Washington Place. The only issue is the limited parking. The home is kept in very good condition and it is a great venue for military promotions. The governor provided opening remarks and presided in the promotion ceremony.

If you ever have the chance to visit you should. This once was the home of our beloved Queen Liliokalani. And the home to Hawaii's first family.

Beautiful home, it was very welcoming

Cameron and the crew are very passionate about enay they do and the history of Hawaii represented at Washington Place

A must visit for anyone interested in Hawaii's history and culture.

Hawaii State Governor's mansion. Docents are extremely knowledgeable of Hawaii's Royalty history.

What a great place to learn the history of the Hawaiian people.

Great historic place to learn on Hawaiian monarchy history.

Nice place with nice tour guide lady:) highly recommend Thursday's guide tour!

The tour was amazing and informative. Staff is knowledgeable and friendly

A very special and cherished piece of our history... Home of Queen Liliu'okalani.

Great place to have an event. Staff is wonderful.