SHORE EXCURSIONS

OVERVIEW

Stroll through the largest Edo-style ornamental garden outside of Japan and enjoy free time browsing the shops and farmer’s market near Hilo Bay. To reach Liliuokalani Gardens, you will travel down Banyan Drive, a sun-dappled street lined with banyan trees that celebrities such as Babe Ruth and Amelia Earhart planted. More botanical treasures await you within the gardens, which is named for Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani. It opened in 1917 as a tribute to the many Japanese immigrants that worked Hawaii’s sugarcane fields. While meandering through the serene setting, you will notice that nearly every plant is indigenous. They include species such as the rosy trumpet tree and the towering kukui, the national tree of Hawaii. Afterwards, continue to Wailuku State Park where you’ll find picturesque Rainbow Falls. Watch as water from the Wailuku River plunges 80 feet over the lip of the waterfall to cascade into the pool below, often forming a beautiful rainbow effect. Later, you will independently explore the abundant boutiques, art galleries and marketplaces along the waterfront. There will be plenty of time to dine on your own if you wish.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Drive down a beautifully shaded street lined with banyan trees that celebrities planted.
• Meander through Liliuokalani Gardens, a botanical oasis with mostly indigenous plants.
• View breathtaking Rainbow Falls at Wailuku State Park
• Spend time exploring Hilo’s main shopping and dining district along the bay.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Join the magic of the steam train and travel back in time aboard the pride of the White Pass fleet, Engine #73. Pulled by an authentic steam engine, enjoy the live commentary and views from the comfort of your vintage railcar while following the footprints of the Klondike Gold Rush. Board a parlor car for a fully narrated tour aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route. Against all odds, the iron trail was carved through some of the North's most rugged terrain in 1898 to include mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels & trestles. Travel 40 miles roundtrip up one of the steepest grades in North America, enjoying a light snack, non- alcoholic beverages, and a Prosecco toast while your narrator discusses the Klondike Gold Rush and the history of the building of the railroad. After traveling around the summit loop, travel back to Skagway. Each guest will receive a souvenir as a remembrance of a rare ride aboard a working steam train.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride through the wilderness on a train pulled by a vintage steam locomotive on the “Scenic Railway of the World.”
• Learn about the significance of the area during the Klondike Gold Rush in the 1890s.
• Pass incredibly scenic natural wonders on the train ride back to Skagway. Locally sourced snack included.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in layered clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.