It is called a puloulou, or “kapu stick” … the gold sphere on top of the ivory tusk from a narwhal whale between the thrones is said to be a gift from King Kalakaua’s 1883 coronation.

Across the street from the IOLANI Barracks in Richard’s Street is the YWCA Laniakea. Inside is a restaurant called Cafe Julia. There are a multitude of small restaurants one to two blocks West going towards Chinatown. A favorite of mine is Murphy’s Bar and Grill on Merchant street. Very popular and good food.

Yes, you can use credit cards to pay for the entrance fee.

Hi there if you are doing the tour the store your belongings.

Yes, it has an elevator for disabled persons. Just let the workers know and they will make sure you are taken cared of.

The kids might be a little too young to understand everything and what the palace represents. There are a lot of nice things for them to look at that holds history. Don't know if they would really get anything out of the visit but I'm sure you and your husband would.

Checkout their website as it will tell you exactly what time and dates are available. Making a reservation is always useful.

We took the bus, there is ample parking so I'm sure there is handicap parking to. Don't let that stop you from gong to see the palace, it's absolutely beautiful and worth seeing.

We prefer docent led tour most of the time, and this was no exception. Docents usually fill in with additional history and we've found are proud to share their knowledge of a site that they love. Thank you to all docents everywhere!