If buildings could talk.

You might recognize Aliiolani Hale (aka the State Judiciary Building) from the opening sequence of Hawaii 5-0. With its statue of King Kamehameha I draped in lei, it’s possibly the most photographed building in the islands. But did you know it’s also one of the most tragic in Hawaiian history?

Take a historical walk with Willis Moore (professor, professional lecturer and world traveler) and you’ll learn things even the locals don’t know. Through the Hawaii Geographic Society, he offers four downtown walking tours. Each one is about 2 hours, and goes at your own pace. Choose from: 1) Downtown Honolulu Architecture, 2) Honolulu: The Monarchy, 3) Downtown Temples covering Eastern and Western religions, 4) Petroglyph, Waterfall & Rainforest Trek. (Would you believe Oahu’s best petroglyph field is just outside Downtown?) Except for Tour 4 which also calls for a towel and mosquito repellent, all you need are sunscreen, walking shoes, water, snacks and a hat.

The cost is $15 per person, with a 2-person minimum. You determine the date and time. It’s not uncommon for tours to begin and end at one of Honolulu’s well-known pubs. To learn more, call Willis Moore at 808-538-3952 or hawaiigeographhicsociety@gmail.com