Learning Adventures

History and Culture in Hilo

East Hawaii Cultural Center: Changing exhibits in a friendly setting by many of Hawaii Island’s most imaginative artists. (808) 961-5711. www.ehcc.org.

Lyman Mission House and Museum: This nationally accredited and Smithsonian-affiliated museum on a quiet Hilo side street is a gem, with precious native artifacts and treasures, as well as changing exhibits from around the globe. You can also walk through a faux lava tube to learn about Hawaii’s volcanoes. Other exhibits describe extinct and rare Hawaiian birds. There are also superb collections of Hawaiian tropical marine shells. Named for the Rev. and Mrs. David Belden Lyman, Christian missionaries who influenced Hilo during the mid 1800s. Guided tour of their restored house. 276 Haili St., Hilo. (808) 935-5021 www.lymanmuseum.org.

Pacific Tsunami Museum: Exhibits depicting how radically the destructive 1946 and 1960 tsunamis changed the social and economic face of the community in and around Hilo. Other informative exhibits explain what a tsunami is. Lots of historical photos, exhibits, maps and survivor stories, as well as a theater. Pick up their brochure of the East Hawaii Driving and Walking Tour of Historical Tsunami Sites. 130 Kamehameha Ave., Hilo. (808) 935-0926 www.tsunami.org

University of Hawaii Hilo Hawaiian EDventure Program: A “living classroom” concept takes students into the forest and the ocean to teach a curriculum of integrated academic, recreational and cultural activities. Flexible curricula adjusted for “life learners” of all ages. (808) 974-7555. http://conference.uhh.hawaii.edu.