Tour the Lyman Museum and Mission House

Overview of the Lyman Museum and Mission House

At the Lyman Museum and Mission House in historic downtown Hilo, visitors are offered a rich experience with exhibits on volcanoes, gem and mineral displays, Hawaiian artifacts, and comprehensive insights into the history of Hawai'i and its people.

Self-Guided Tour of the Lyman Museum

The Lyman Museum, affiliated with the Smithsonian since 1971, allows guests to explore various artifacts and archives, natural history exhibits, special exhibitions, and a gift shop. Visitors have the freedom to take a self-guided tour to appreciate the full extent of the museum's offerings.

Docent-Led Tour of the Mission House

Adjacent to the museum, visitors can opt for a docent-led tour of the Mission House, a significant historical structure built in the late 1830s. Originally owned by David and Sarah Lyman, missionaries from New England, the house is one of the oldest standing wooden buildings in Hawai'i and is listed on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Inside, visitors will find an array of furniture, tools, household items, and artifacts utilized by the Lymans and other early missionary families.

Ideal for a Rainy Day

This hidden gem is especially ideal for a rainy day, providing an enriching indoor activity.

Tickets

Admission prices for the Lyman Museum's self-guided tour are $7 for adults and $2 for children aged 6 to 17. For those interested in a guided tour of the Mission House, tickets are $3 per adult and $1 per child.

Hours

The Lyman Museum is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is advisable to make reservations, with three available visitation sessions at 10 a.m., 12:15 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. The Mission House operates on a similar schedule, with tours starting at 10:05 a.m., 12:20 p.m., and 2:35 p.m.

For more detailed information and reservations, please visit the official website.