One of the top 15 best things to do in Hilo is to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to Kilauea Crater, Thurston Lava Tube, and Kilauea Iki Crater, which can be explored through hiking trails or helicopter tours.
Depending on current conditions, you may have the chance to view actual eruptions.
While there you can learn about the Big Island’s volcanic history at this popular spot. Mauna Loa—the island’s most active volcano—has also significantly shaped Hilo’s past and present.