The Hawaii Army Museum Society is in Battery Randolph at Fort DeRussy, near Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. Its exhibits trace Hawaiʻi’s military history from ancient Hawaiian warfare and the era of King Kamehameha through conflicts including World War II and Vietnam. Look for artifacts, dioramas, models and an M24 Chaffee tank outside, then see the Cobra gunship mounted on the roof. Admission is free, with donations welcome. The museum is a useful stop for military history, island history or a break from Waikiki’s heat.
Inside Battery Randolph
The museum occupies Battery Randolph, a former coastal artillery fortification at Fort DeRussy. Its setting connects the exhibits to Hawaiʻi’s military past, while its location near Waikiki Beach makes it easy to add to a day in the area.
Inside, displays cover Hawaiʻi’s history from early Hawaiian military systems to modern conflicts. The story begins long before the arrival of Europeans and continues through the era of King Kamehameha, World War II and the Vietnam War.
Artifacts, vehicles and the rooftop gunship
Artifacts, dioramas and models give the exhibits detail beyond the historical timeline. Outside, look for an M24 Chaffee tank. A Cobra gunship mounted on the roof is another distinctive part of the visit.
The museum also has a gift shop with military memorabilia and souvenirs. Its air-conditioned interior can be a welcome pause from the Waikiki heat.
Planning a visit
The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed Sunday and Monday. Admission is free; donations are welcome. The museum has restrooms and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, elevator and restroom.
Parking is available across the street, but it is paid. DoD personnel can get discounted rates, and weekly parking passes may be less costly than parking at nearby hotels. If time allows, returning for another visit can give you more room to take in the exhibits.
FAQ
Is the Hawaii Army Museum Society free to visit?
Yes. Admission is free, and donations are welcome.
What are the museum’s opening days?
It is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed Sunday and Monday.
What can you see at the museum?
Exhibits cover Hawaiʻi’s military history from ancient Hawaiian warfare through the Vietnam War. Displays include artifacts, dioramas and models, with an M24 Chaffee tank outside and a Cobra gunship on the roof.
Is parking available?
Paid parking is across the street. DoD personnel can access discounted rates, and weekly passes may cost less than nearby hotels.
