Family Things to Do & Attractions in Hilo HI -- Kid Friendly Fun!

Hilo, Hawaii, offers the ultimate in family fun. Located on the coast, you have the sun and sand you equate with Hawaii, but you are also in close proximity to two volcanoes, one of which, Mauna Loa, is active. One of the famous celebrations in Hilo is the Merrie Monarch Festival, which takes place after Easter each year. It is a time when you will really see the Hawaiian culture come alive in the ancient and modern hula. Visitors of all ages will love the experiences of visiting the ‘Imaloa Astronomy Center of Hawai’i.

Among the many opportunities for family fun, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo. This is the only zoo in the United States set in a tropical rainforest. There are many different exotic animals here and there is a petting zoo for the children open only on Saturdays. Visitors can also take an interactive tour to see all facets of the zoo from the butterflies to the giant anteaters. Along with the many species of mammals, primates, birds, and amphibians, there is quite an extensive collection of plants, flowers and shrubs.

If you like engaging in outdoor activities as a family, you will love the experiences at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here you will see the culture of the island at its best in the midst of an active volcano and diverse wildlife. Depending on the time you have allotted for your visit, you can take a three-hour tour of the summit of the volcano on the Center Summit Drive.