Honolulu comprises a variety of neighborhoods, but when locals think about Honolulu, they often think about Downtown Honolulu and nearby Chinatown. Tourists might often think about Waikiki – Honolulu’s world-famous urban resort destination, while Downtown is the city’s government and financial district – with a trendy Chinatown at its Ewa edge.
In Downtown Honolulu, historic landmarks are sprinkled among skyscraper-lined thoroughfares bustling with modern businesses and commerce. In Chinatown, remnants of the area’s sketchy red-light district past remain – along with traditional Chinese markets and herbalists.
The Downtown Honolulu area, which includes Chinatown, is roughly bordered by River Street on the west, South Street on the east, South Vineyard Boulevard on the north, and the Pacific Ocean on the south. Buses and expected Honolulu Rail stops – along with bike paths and pedestrian walkways – add to the ease of access to the area. Downtown parking is at a premium, although metered street parking and public and private for-pay lots are available.
While these neighborhoods often attract young adults, there are things to do with kids in Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown, as well.
What Is The History Of Downtown Honolulu And Chinatown?
Before you embark on a Downtown Honolulu adventure, share with your kids (in an age-appropriate manner) a little about the history of the area.
Here are some fun facts to include in your conversations:
- Honolulu means “sheltered harbor” in Hawaiian, and oral history indicates the original Polynesian migrants settled on Honolulu’s beautiful shores in the 11th century. After Kamehameha I conquered Oahu, he moved his royal court to Waikiki in 1804, later relocating to downtown Honolulu in 1809 for three years.
- In 1845, Honolulu became the permanent capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, and iconic buildings, such as Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, ‘Iolani Palace, and Ali‘iolani Hale, were erected.
- Throughout the 19th century, foreign merchant ships and American missionaries arrived in Honolulu harbor, establishing businesses and also contributing to the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1883, leading to Hawaii’s annexation by the United States in 1898. However, Honolulu has remained – from then until now – as Hawaii’s capital, largest city, and main seaport and airport for the islands.
