SAHMRI
SAHMRI: An award-winning architectural marvel housing cutting-edge health and medical research, offering tours and insights into life-saving discoveri...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Guided tours offer best access
SAHMRI
Best Time
Guided tours offer best access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
SAHMRI: An award-winning architectural marvel housing cutting-edge health and medical research, offering tours and insights into life-saving discoveries.
"It’s like walking through a piece of living art, and a dream for any photography fans."
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Tours offer access to more areas & insights. Bookings essential, check website for fortnightly Thursday slots!
📸 Photography Rules
Foyer & exterior are open for photos. Interior access requires a guided tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Cheese Grater' Architecture
Exterior and Foyer
An award-winning architectural masterpiece, its unique facade offers stunning visual appeal and photographic opportunities.
Guided Tours
Various interior sections
Gain insight into cutting-edge medical research and explore the building's design with knowledgeable guides.
Medical Research Insights
Foyer displays and tour information
Learn about life-saving research in areas like cancer and leukaemia from dedicated scientists and clinicians.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Photography Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Tours offer access to more areas & insights. Bookings essential, check website for fortnightly Thursday slots!
📸 Photography Rules
Foyer & exterior are open for photos. Interior access requires a guided tour.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking near SAHMRI can be difficult. Consider public transport or check parking restrictions.
🔬 Learn About Research
Engage with displays and tours to understand the vital health and medical research conducted here.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Tours offer access to more areas & insights. Bookings essential, check website for fortnightly Thursday slots!
📸 Photography Rules
Foyer & exterior are open for photos. Interior access requires a guided tour.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking near SAHMRI can be difficult. Consider public transport or check parking restrictions.
🔬 Learn About Research
Engage with displays and tours to understand the vital health and medical research conducted here.
☕ Nearby Cafes
Grab a coffee or sandwich at the SAHMRI store for a quick bite.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise SAHMRI for its stunning, award-winning architecture, often described as a 'living art piece,' and the insightful guided tours that reveal groundbreaking medical research. The professional and friendly staff are also frequently highlighted. However, some visitors express disappointment regarding limited public access for photography and challenges with nearby parking.
"Been here a few times for clinical trials and the staff are incredibly professional and friendly."
Jordan Venning
"They are working hard to make dreams come true!"
View of Australia
"Finally got around to doing the tour of this amazing building. It’s like walking through a piece of living art, and a dream for any photography fans. India, who led the tour, was wonderful and provided real insight into the work that goes on here and the diverse team that collaborate on all matter of health related research. A real eye opener and highly recommend visit."
David Hein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
SAHMRI is located on North Terrace in Adelaide. It's easily accessible by public transport, including buses and trams that stop nearby. If driving, be aware that parking can be challenging and expensive in the city center.
On-site parking is very limited. Public parking stations are available nearby, but can be costly for longer stays. Many visitors opt for public transport to avoid parking hassles.
You can walk around the exterior of the building and access the foyer. For deeper exploration of the interior and research areas, a guided tour is necessary.
For exterior shots, any time of day can work, but afternoon light is often recommended for capturing the building's unique shapes and shadows.
Yes, SAHMRI is well-served by Adelaide's public transport network. Numerous bus routes and the free City Connector tram service stop close to North Terrace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to the foyer is free. However, to access specific areas and learn about the research, you'll need to book a guided tour, which usually has a small fee that supports related charities.
Guided tours are typically offered fortnightly on Thursdays at 3 PM. It's crucial to check the official SAHMRI website for the most up-to-date tour schedule and booking information, as availability can be limited.
The building's public foyer is generally accessible during business hours. Specific tour times are limited and must be booked in advance.
Entry to the foyer is free. Guided tours usually involve a small charge, often for a charitable cause associated with the institute.
You can enter the public foyer without a ticket. However, to see more of the building and learn about the research, booking a guided tour is the recommended way to visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is permitted in the public foyer and on the exterior of the building. Access to other interior areas for photography is generally restricted to guided tours.
Many visitors find the afternoon light to be ideal for capturing the building's unique architectural features, highlighting its shapes and shadows.
The building's nickname, 'Cheese Grater,' comes from its distinctive facade, which offers many interesting angles. The foyer also provides a visually striking space for photos.
While you can use professional cameras in permitted areas like the foyer and exterior, be mindful of any specific guidelines provided by staff, especially during tours.
Experiment with different angles from North Terrace and surrounding streets. The building's geometry is a photographer's dream.
🎫 🔬 Research & Impact
SAHMRI is a leading health and medical research institute focusing on areas like cancer, leukaemia, diabetes, and heart disease. They aim to translate research into real-world patient outcomes.
SAHMRI is home to a diverse team of scientists, researchers, clinicians, and support staff dedicated to advancing health and medical knowledge.
The institute's work directly contributes to developing new treatments, diagnostic tools, and preventative strategies for various diseases, ultimately improving public health.
SAHMRI is involved in clinical trials. If you are interested, you can inquire through their official channels or discuss with your healthcare provider.
SAHMRI researchers and clinicians often work closely with the Royal Adelaide Hospital, facilitating the rapid translation of research findings into patient care.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a SAHMRI store that serves coffee and sandwiches, offering a convenient spot for a quick bite.
While there isn't specific information on bringing outside food, the foyer is a public space. However, it's generally best to consume food and drinks in designated areas.
Being located on North Terrace, SAHMRI is surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and dining options in Adelaide's CBD, catering to various tastes and budgets.
The SAHMRI store focuses on fresh flavours, serving coffee and proper sandwiches.
Yes, the SAHMRI store is open to the public, offering a place to grab a coffee or a sandwich.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the architectural aspect and the visual appeal of the building. The SAHMRI store also offers a casual spot for a snack. For younger children, a brief visit to the foyer and exterior might be sufficient, while older children might appreciate the insights gained from a tour about how science helps people.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While exterior and foyer shots are readily accessible, keen photographers will want to book a guided tour. These tours can provide access to interior spaces, including the iconic spiral structure, offering unique perspectives and a deeper understanding of the building's design. Always check the latest tour schedules and photography guidelines beforehand.
🔬 Science & Medical Enthusiasts
You'll gain insights into the dedication of researchers and the collaborative efforts that drive medical advancements. The opportunity to learn about life-saving discoveries and the future of healthcare makes SAHMRI a truly inspiring visit for anyone interested in science.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: The SAHMRI Building
Visitors can admire the building's exterior from various vantage points along North Terrace. The interior foyer also offers a glimpse into the building's unique design, with its soaring spaces and intricate structural elements. For a more in-depth appreciation, guided tours provide access to areas that showcase the building's innovative features and its role in fostering a collaborative research environment.
Key architectural features include the distinctive facade, the central atrium, and the integration of sustainable design principles. The building's form is inspired by natural elements, creating a space that is both inspiring and conducive to groundbreaking scientific work.
Behind the Science: SAHMRI's Research
The institute's commitment to 'better health' is evident in its pursuit of groundbreaking treatments, advanced diagnostics, and effective preventative strategies. Visitors on guided tours often gain fascinating insights into the daily work of researchers, learning about the complex processes involved in medical discovery and the impact these efforts have on improving lives.
SAHMRI also plays a vital role in training the next generation of medical professionals and researchers, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. Their dedication to both scientific advancement and community well-being makes them a cornerstone of South Australia's health landscape.
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