Loved the tour, history and the house. It was amazing. But as someone who is regular weight and height, but struggling with infertility, to be asked by the docent whether I was pregnant, is hugely hurtful and shows lack of interpersonal interactions. Specially as she was a woman, or even it it were a man, that is unacceptable. I am not expecting. We are going through IVF. I thought everyone from a young age was asked not to ask that kind of question. I loved our visit, but now it's on a sour feeling. Would not recommend bc of conduct of the docent. Otherwise, it's spectacular read more

Perched high in the mountains of Makiki Heights and nestled in an oasis of eucalyptus trees and lush tropical foliage sits the magnificent Liljestrand House. Getting there is quite the experience of hairpin turns and winding roads, but once you see the low sprawling home, your blood pressure will return to normal. With its Japanese aesthetic and simple clean lines, the home captures the ambience of country cabin meets mid-century modern innovation and convenience. Once occupied by the Lilijestrand family, today the House is a showpiece of architectural excellence best experienced on a small guided tour. We were lucky to have Lisa and Kim as our guides, regaling us with one fascinating story after another along with intimate peeks into the lives of the architect and the homeowners. The breathtaking views from every room in the house is as gasp-inducing as the artwork and amazing nooks and crannies. Betty Lilijestrand oversaw the construction and it's her foresight along with Ossipoff's brilliant design that makes one marvel at their genius. Remember to wear shoes that can be removed easily, and plan to do some walking and taking lots of photos. And ... I imagined if I lived here I wouldn't want to leave! A wonderful experience that I highly recommend! Enjoy! read more

See all

Incredible architectural tour, amazing property. If you are even somewhat interested min mid century architecture or even just interesting homes do not skip this. read more

If you like Modern Architecture- do t miss this GEM! It is one of Ossipoff's Finest works. You will not want to leave. read more

See all

This is an impressive example of MCM residential design. The architect, Ossipof, and the family, the Liljestrands, created a wonderful space for living down to the last details. The views of Honolulu alone are worth the visit! The docent tour was so well done. Highly recommended if you're in Honolulu or visiting. read more

I've been to a few wonderful curated events and finally toured the home. Kim was an incredible docent. Her interactive approach let us guess what was behind the cleverly concealed cabinets - the most marvelous music center & speaker system, tableware, sewing machine, typewriter and rolodex, bedding storage, a bar, etc. The charm is in the personalization and collaboration of the owners and architect in this stunning Ossipoff. From the 11 page guide for the kitchen with the unique stepping stool pull outs to the artwork and custom furnishings, it is beyond a mid-century modern gem. read more

The Liljestrand House - The concealed music center! Genius! - Historical Tours Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Fantastic! So glad that this has reopened. A very well curated tour of a very interesting home. The view is "worth the price of admission" as they say. I don't want to spoil the surprises but if your a fan of mid century architecture, this is a must! read more

The Liljestrand House - View - Historical Tours Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Wow!! Such a great experience. The docents and caretakers are warm and welcoming. I loved hearing the stories of the home and the family. The house is a gift that it is has been preserved and open to the public to view this work of art. If you like mid-century architecture, art, and history of Honolulu, this is a wonderful experience. Planning on coming back and to take my son! read more

THIS tour is a "must do" for anyone who is into architecture especially mid-century modernism! This tour was definitely a highlight for us and even now as I look at the photos am in awe of how beautiful and special this home is esp. when you see it in person. As you can see from the photos even the view and photos from outside are breathtaking and when you step inside you will not be disappointed with the inside as cool and awesome. Surprisingly I learned that many of the locals have not visited or even heard of it. Definitely a HIDDEN GEM! I learned about The Liljestrand House when our local AAA Westways Magazine featured a small piece about it. I was so excited after I read about it and hoped to have the chance to visit saving it here on Yelp as a bookmark. Fast forward to today and thrilled and grateful to have had the opportunity to finally visit and see its incredible beauty first hand. read more

See all

This was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. The Liljestrand House is a stunning example of mid-century modern architecture in the middle of Honolulu. Beautiful architecture, outstanding views, and great docents. They were very accommodating when our original reservation was canceled due to the recent hurricane force winds which caused power outages. This is an absolute must for architecture lovers. We will return with friends! read more

See all

If you're a fan of mid-century modern architecture, you must do a tour in f this masterpiece designed by renowned architect Vladimir Ossipoff. And you. Don't need to drive far from town. I e been to the property 3 times and plan to find an opportunity to visit again. The unobstructed views of the city can't be beat. Book a tour online! read more

What a wonderful way to spend the morning! Yes, I'll admit that I love mid century architecture....but to have a treasure like this here in Hawaii? Amazing! I loved learning about the Liljestrand family, and how they lived their lives during this time. I loved all the hidden details that were designed into the house....really clever! As I walked around, I feel like I went back in time, and could almost imagine what it really felt like to live in this house, during that time. The grounds are beautifully landscaped....peaceful, and the view is unforgettable! You'll be reminded that so much thought, detail, and quality craftsmanship went into the homes of yesteryear. Our tour guide was wonderful! I forgot her name, but will include a photo of her. Worth the time...and the price....you won't regret it! It's so important to appreciate and support the relics of our past, and keep them alive for future generations! read more

See all

Beautiful home in an amazing setting. Hidden in the trees, this house has a view of all Honolulu. Incredible care for the views, home and grounds is obvious. Friend staff and lovely stories of the home owners and architect. read more

See all

I booked a tour months ago and checked the reviews and looked at pictures online prior to going - but the house and the tour were beyond expectations. Our tour guide was excellent (thanks, Lisa) and the house was far more beautiful and impressive than any photos. What did I enjoy most? Probably the setting of the house - a perfect location and situated beautifully, showcasing a breath-taking view of the city from Diamond Head to the Waianae mountains. read more

I absolutely loved visiting here with my mom. The tour guide was so nice even though we were late for our tour she didn't shame us and we still got to see a lot. Will be coming back with my other friends for any other events! read more

The Liljestrand House - View from the balcony - Historical Tours Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

This was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. The Liljestrand House is a stunning example of mid-century modern architecture in the middle of Honolulu. Beautiful architecture, outstanding views, and great docents. They were very accommodating when our original reservation was canceled due to the recent hurricane force winds which caused power outages. This is an absolute must for architecture lovers. We will return with friends! read more

See all

When you live on an island, you quickly realize that you're often sucked into the same routine, dreaming of novel things to do for fun. A tour of the Liljestrand House could help to break that monotony-- at least for one afternoon. Having been up Tantalus many times, I now recognize that I've passed by this unassuming plot of property countless times without even recognizing it. If you look really carefully, there's actually a small stone on the side of the road designating a historical residence; the sign probably goes unnoticed by nearly everyone. Who would have known that such a nice house lies beyond the old rickety gate? The house is available for small group tours which need to be reserved in advance via the foundation's website. The tour is officially free, but there is a suggested donation amount of twenty dollars. The Liljestrand House was designed by world-renowned architect Vladimir Ossipoff and sports an unobstructed view of Diamond Head all the way to the airport and Pearl Harbor. During the tour, you'll get to hear the story of the house's construction as well as the family that lived in it. What's even better is that the tour is given by a woman who actually worked under the Liljestrand family. Consider booking a tour here. You won't regret it. read more

See all

I have toured this house 5 times and each time is better. The stunning architecture, the stories about how it was built, and when, and about those who built it, are magnificent. The walking tour through the house is really a visit with a new friend each time... while looking outside at the beautiful views, the sunshine and shadows on the landscape, the huge trees and forest, and in each room a different story and a new view. The quiet and silence around the house is a surprise - city living is so noisy and here we are looking down into urban Honolulu from a sanctuary. I bring local friends and visitors and they all are simply delighted. I am grateful for the hospitality while we all take pictures and ask questions. The tour guides treat us all like special guests - as if we are the only people who have ever visited. A must on your list. read more

Melinda did a wonderful job as our guide and just a wonderful afternoon. highly recommend everyone visiting the property and taking the tour

This was a magnificent tour and so thankful the family decided to open this treasure for others to tour and enjoy. Melinda was an amazing guide. Absolutely recommend! read more

Driving up Tantalus to this home takes you to another world. Stunning views and fascinating architecture. It is a must to see this historic home. read more

This is an absolutely amazing home and tour. The home is an understated example of great design. I was expecting a fun tour and I was blown away! Steve's (our tour guide) enthusiasm and knowledge of architecture really enhanced the experience. I cant wait to go again! read more

How this place only has (now) two reviews is confusing. It's an architecturally significant home up in mid-lower Tantalus area. If you're a fan of architecture and design, you'll love this home. Beautifully curated by the family's former assistant, you'll learn a tremendous amount of information about the residence, the residents, and the architect. It's a wonderfully informative tour of a great home with an incredible history. I liked it so much I'm going back in a few weeks with a visitor. Typical donation for the free tour is $20. Do your research on getting up there and do a dry run (or leave early) because four people came pretty late to our tour after having driven past the subtly hidden entrance. read more

The BEST VIEWS of Honolulu, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor. Superior guiding by docent Elaine Evans and great impromptu recollections of the Liljestrand family and their home. If you are in Honolulu do not miss this tour. read more

Amazing slice of architectural history, one of Vladimir Ossipoff's incredible residential creations, beautifully preserved. The docent was excellent, full of great info, and the entire home is on full display. Thank you for keeping this treasure available to the public. read more

Anyone with an appreciation of Mid-century modern architecture should plan a visit to this one-of-kind home tucked in the hills atop Tantalus. It was a walk back in time for us - reminiscent of an era of simple, yet functional decor combined with an open air setting and stunning views of Diamond Head and the South Shore. We attended one of their monthly architecture series events, but there are also tours available - which we will definitely be returning for. read more

See all