Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Memories

Save visits & photos across your bucket list — sign in to start.

No memories yet. Add your first visit to start a timeline.

    Guide

    Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

    Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

    For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

    FAQ

    What’s new? Updated today
    • Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
    • Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
    • Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes
    What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

    Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

    How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

    Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

    Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

    Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

    Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

    Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

    Tips

    • Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
    • Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
    • Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.
    Add visit

    Two of the world’s most active volcanoes (Kilauea, Mauna Loa) can be found on the Big Island of Hawaii, home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where hardened black lava rock appears to stretch endlessly across the terrain until its sharp cliffs meet the rich blue sea.

    Two impressive scenic drives lead to numerous hiking opportunities: Chain of Craters road passes numerous craters and continues all the way to the ocean while Crater Rim Drive wraps around the summit of Kilauea.

    Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is surely a geological spectacle, but the region is also incredibly rich in human history as illustrated by trails like the Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs Trail. In fact, its 23,000 petroglyphs make it the largest concentration of rock art in all of the Hawaiian Islands.

    Facebook
    Twitter
    Email
    Pinterest