Children's Discovery Center
Rating
Family of 4
$45-65 (admission approximately $12-16 per person; check discoverycenterhawaii.
Duration
1.5-2.5 hours
Best Ages
Best for ages 2 to 10
About
Honolulu's Children's Discovery Center is the city's dedicated children's museum, a place where young visitors can engage with interactive, hands-on exhibits that make learning feel like play.
The exhibit content leans into Hawaii's unique cultural and natural identity: children can explore Hawaiian culture, the state's ecosystems, and themed role-play stations that give young visitors a window into island life beyond the beach and luau. For families visiting Honolulu, the CDC offers educational depth that complements the usual tourist experience.
Key planning note: the Children's Discovery Center is closed on Mondays. Weekday hours run from 9AM to 1PM, arrive at opening to get the full experience before the short morning closes. Weekend hours run 10AM-3PM.
Located in downtown Honolulu near the waterfront, the CDC is accessible from Waikiki and the Kaka'ako area. Admission runs approximately $12-16 per person, budget $45-65 for a family of four. Kama'aina (Hawaii residents) discounts apply; visitors pay standard rates.
This is one of the better indoor activities in Honolulu for children aged 2 to 10, particularly on a rainy tropical morning.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Available
Kid Meals
Limited
Setting
Indoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Tuesday through Friday morning (open 9AM-1PM); closed Mondays
Wait Times
Minimal; 15-20 min possible on weekend mornings
Nearby Food
Downtown Honolulu and Kaka'ako neighborhood have excellent dining within a 5-10 minute drive. Honolulu's waterfront area has food options nearby.
Why Kids Love It
Honolulu's Children's Discovery Center is a hands-on children's museum with interactive exhibits covering science, culture, and Hawaii's natural world. Kids aged 2 to 10 love the themed activity stations where they can role-play, build, experiment, and create. The Hawaii-specific content gives visiting families an educational window into island culture that goes beyond a typical tourist experience.
What Parents Say
“I think kids up to 7 years old would enjoy it.”
Pro Tips from Parents
- Closed Mondays, an important detail that trips up many visitors
- Weekday hours are limited (9AM-1PM), arrive at opening to maximize your time
- Weekend hours are slightly later (10AM-3PM) but the museum can get crowded
- Exhibits have Hawaiian cultural themes that add educational depth for visiting families
- Located in downtown Honolulu near the Kaka'ako area, combine with a walk to the waterfront
What to Bring
- Water bottle
- Snacks for after (limited on-site options)
- Comfortable shoes for active exhibit exploration
Cost Info
Admission Prices
- Adult
- $12
- Child
- free
- Senior
- $7
Tips to Save
- The CDC has limited hours, closed Mondays and closes at 1PM on weekdays.
- Plan around these constraints.
- Kama'aina (Hawaii residents) discounts apply, visitors pay standard rates.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 9AM-1PM
- Monday
- Closed
- Sunday
- 10AM-3PM
- Tuesday
- 9AM-1PM
- Saturday
- 10AM-3PM
- Thursday
- 9AM-1PM
- Wednesday
- 9AM-1PM
Have a Question?
Frequently Asked Questions
Tickets & Booking
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