Kīlauea Visitor Center to Close for Renovations, Park Store Relocates
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National park Store to Remain Open During Visitor Centre Renovation
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park – Park visitors will still be able to purchase souvenirs and support park initiatives despite the upcoming closure of the Kīlauea Visitor Center for renovations. Starting February 17, 2025, the visitor center will be closed for two years, but the Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association store will relocate to a temporary location just 1.2 miles away.
The store,operated by the non-profit Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association,will move to the Koa Room at Kīlauea Military Camp. This move ensures uninterrupted service for visitors seeking unique keepsakes and supporting park preservation efforts.
“[Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association] is excited about the Kīlauea Visitor Center remodeling project, as we know the updated facilities will result in an expanded interpretive product line and an enhanced visitor experience,” said Hawaiʻi Pacific parks Association Executive Director Mel Boehl. “Mahalo nui to Kīlauea Military Camp and National Park Service for their partnership in finding a good solution for a temporary visitor center and park store.”
the association has a long-standing relationship with the park, operating the store for 90 years. This temporary relocation ensures continued service and support for the park.
“Change, like the ever-evolving landscape of Kīlauea volcano, brings new opportunities,” said Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Area Manager Al Galiza. “We are excited for the upcoming partnership with Kīlauea military Camp and look forward to continuing to provide our visitors with memorable keepsakes of their time at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.”
While the visitor center undergoes a major change, visitor services will also be available at the Koa Room. Additional parking will be provided at the ball field near Kīlauea Military Camp.
The renovations will bring meaningful improvements to the visitor center, including:
A covered hālau (pavilion) on the western end of the building.
Relocated restrooms to the eastern end of the building.
Full accessibility for all visitors.
Expanded interior space by converting office space into visitor-use areas.
A larger interior space for the Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association store.
New bilingual exhibits in English and ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (hawaiian language).
During the closure, programs like After Dark in the Park and Nā Leo Manu will be suspended. Visitors can stay updated on construction progress and any changes to park services on the National Park Service website.
While the visitor center undergoes its transformation, the spirit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes national Park will continue to thrive, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
keeping the Aloha Alive: hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Store
NewsDirectory3.com Exclusive Interview
Despite the upcoming closure of the Kīlauea Visitor Center for renovations, visitors to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park will still be able to purchase souvenirs and contribute to park preservation efforts.
We spoke with Mel Boehl, Executive Director of the Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association, which operates the park store, about this exciting transition.
NewsDirectory3.com: Mr. Boehl, the visitor center closure might seem like a hurdle, but you’re relocating the store. Can you tell our readers about that?
Mel Boehl: absolutely! We’re thrilled about the Kīlauea Visitor Center remodeling project as we certainly know the updated facilities will allow us to expand our interpretive product line and enhance the visitor experience. We’ll be moving the store to the Koa Room at Kīlauea Military Camp, just a short drive from the current location.
NewsDirectory3.com: This partnership with Kīlauea Military Camp sounds beneficial.
Mel Boehl: It is indeed a fantastic partnership. We’re incredibly grateful to both Kīlauea Military Camp and the National Park Service for helping us find this solution.
NewsDirectory3.com: The Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association has a rich history with the park.
Mel Boehl: We do indeed, having operated the store for 90 years. This temporary relocation ensures we can continue providing our valuable services to visitors while supporting the park we all love.
NewsDirectory3.com: What are your thoughts on the renovations themselves?
Mel Boehl: We see these renovations as a positive step forward. They’ll result in significant improvements, including increased accessibility, expanded interior space, and exciting new exhibits.It’s a win-win!
NewsDirectory3.com: A big thank you for your insights, Mr. Boehl.
Mel Boehl: My pleasure. We look forward to welcoming visitors to the new temporary location!