The East Hawaii Cultural Center is an important force that promotes Hawaiian arts, culture and creative traditions. Since Hawaii is a multi-ethnic state, the council was founded in 1967 with six charter organizations that reflect the diversity of the Pacific islands. The cultural center is home to an effective alliance of arts organizations, including the Big Island Dance Council, Hawaii Concert Society, Bunka No Izumi, Kin Ryosho Dance Academy, and the Philippine Women's Circle.
The Honolulu Zoo features more than 1,230 animals in a 300-acre setting that comes from royal beginnings. The zoo was established by grants made by the sovereign monarch of King David Kalakaua. In 1877, the land in the area was beautified and opened as Queen Kapiolani Park in honor of Julia Kapiolani, Queen Consort of Hawaii.