Kilauea Visitor Center – everything you need for your adventures

• The Kilauea Visitor Center is located a short distance past the park entrance, on the right side.
• It is open every day from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM except for some holidays or major volcanic events (for more information, you can visit the park website https://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kvc.htm)
• There is a large parking lot with 125 stalls available for visitors, including 9 oversized spaces and accessible parking for visitors with disabilities.
• The Visitor Center offers a range of amenities for park visitors, including:
  • Information and maps about the park, trails, and activities
  • Gift shop with books, souvenirs, and park merchandise
  • Park Ranger talks and presentations
  • Outdoor picnic area with tables and seating
  • Water fountains
  • First aid services and lost and found items
  • Water fountains
  • Restrooms
• The Visitor Center is a great starting point for your visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It provides valuable information and resources to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in the park.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was established in 1916 and is one of the oldest national parks in the United States. The park was created to protect and preserve the unique and dynamic volcanic landscapes and the cultural and historical sites within the park’s boundaries. Over the years, the park has expanded to include over 330,000 acres, encompassing diverse ecosystems ranging from the lush rainforests on the slopes of Mauna Loa to the harsh volcanic deserts of the park’s coastal areas.

The Visitor Center was built in the mid-1960s to serve as the park’s main information hub and gateway for visitors. It was designed to provide a centralized location for park information, ranger talks, and resources, as well as a place for visitors to rest and relax. The center has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years to keep pace with the changing needs of visitors and park staff. Today, the Visitor Center is an essential stop for all visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, providing a wealth of information and resources to help visitors enjoy their time in the park.

With its central location and extensive amenities, the Visitor Center is an excellent starting point for visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro, you’ll find everything you need to know about the park, its trails, and its attractions. So if you’re planning a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, stop by the Visitor Center and get a head start on your adventure.

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center is more than just a place to grab a map and ask questions. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and education, all under one roof. Some of the unique features of the Visitor Center include:

1. Interactive exhibits: The Visitor Center has a variety of interactive exhibits showcasing the geological and cultural history of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that allow visitors to experience the park in a whole new way. From touchable specimens to virtual reality experiences, the displays offer a hands-on approach to learning about the park.
2. Cultural demonstrations: The park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, which is home to a rich cultural heritage. The Visitor Center often features cultural demonstrations and workshops that showcase traditional Hawaiian crafts, music, and dance.
3. Film screenings: The Visitor Center has a theater that shows a variety of films about the park and its natural wonders. Visitors can learn about the history and geology of the area while sitting in a comfortable, air-conditioned theater.
4. Bookstore: The park’s bookstore is a treasure trove of information, offering a variety of books, maps, and souvenirs related to the park. It’s a great place to pick up a souvenir or a guidebook highlighting the unique features and natural beauty of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
5. Information desk: The visitor center has an information desk staffed by park rangers who can answer visitors’ questions and provide maps, brochures, and other materials. Park rangers can also advise on the best hikes for your abilities and interests, as well as current lava viewing conditions, trail conditions, and any closures.

These unique features make the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center a must-visit for any park visitor. Whether you’re looking for information, inspiration, or just a fun and educational experience, you’ll find it all at the Visitor Center.