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 USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park offers visitors a fascinating look at the history of submarines, from the first attempt in 1776 to current technological feats of today's nuclear submarines. The USS Bowfin Museum allows visitors to go below deck aboard the National Historic Landmark, which was launched after the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1942. The World War II submarine went on to sink 44 enemy ships during her nine war patrols.