Thomas A. Jaggar Museum

The Thomas A. Jaggar Museum, at Uwekahuna bluff in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, is permanently closed. Before its closure, the volcanology museum displayed lava samples, scientific instruments and exhibits on Hawaiian volcanoes. The site was also known for views toward Halema‘uma‘u Crater, but the overlook and nearby parking area were damaged by seismic activity and are closed. Check current National Park Service information before planning a stop in this part of the park.

A museum devoted to volcanology

The museum stood at Uwekahuna bluff on the rim of Kīlauea caldera, beside the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. The observatory monitored four active Hawaiian volcanoes: Kīlauea, Mauna Loa, Hualālai and Haleakalā. It was not open to the public, but the museum introduced visitors to the science of studying volcanoes. Its former displays included lava samples, seismographs and other scientific equipment, along with information about volcanic activity and the formation of the Hawaiian Islands. The museum was named for volcanologist Thomas Jaggar, who established the first full-time scientific observatory at Kīlauea in 1912.

Why the site closed

The 2018 Kīlauea eruption and associated seismic activity damaged the area around the museum. The collapse of the caldera affected the adjoining overlook and parking area, and the museum is permanently closed. Older accounts describing museum access or views from its observation deck do not reflect its current status. The former museum site was part of the Crater Rim area, where routes and access can change after volcanic activity or repairs. Check the National Park Service’s current updates before setting out, especially if your route depends on nearby roads, trails or parking.