Located in downtown Honolulu, this historic palace was the royal residence for the the Kingdom of Hawaii's monarchy. Built in 1880, the palace was built really as a status symbol, to enhance Hawaii's prestige overseas and solidify it as a modern nation.
Throughout its times, the palace has used as a royal palace, royal prison, and political centerpiece — following the history and overthrowing of the Hawaiian monarchy. After the overthrow of the monarchy, Iolani Palace served as the Capitol for almost 80 years until it was vacated in 1969.
Today, the palace has been completely restored to its former grandeur and is a National Historic Landmark. It stands as the only royal palace on U.S. soil and can be toured as a museum that celebrates Hawaii's royal heritage.