South Australian Museum
Explore natural history and Aboriginal culture at this free-entry museum, featuring vast collections and interactive exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
South Australian Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore natural history and Aboriginal culture at this free-entry museum, featuring vast collections and interactive exhibits.
"A great place for when the weather isn't good, with impressive Aboriginal history and a peaceful atmosphere."
Free Entry for All!
Most permanent exhibits are free, making it a great value. Paid exhibitions offer unique experiences. :ticket:
Kid-Friendly Discovery Centre
The Discovery Centre is a must-visit for families, offering hands-on fun for younger visitors. :child:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aboriginal Cultures Gallery
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and knowledge of Aboriginal communities through diverse artifacts and displays.
Mammals of the World
Marvel at an extensive collection of taxidermied mammals from across the globe, showcasing incredible biodiversity.
Giant Squid
Discover the awe-inspiring presence of a giant squid, with parts of its immense form visible on multiple levels.
Discovery Centre
An interactive space for kids to touch, explore, and learn, making it a hit for families with children.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free General Admission
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry for All!
Most permanent exhibits are free, making it a great value. Paid exhibitions offer unique experiences. :ticket:
Kid-Friendly Discovery Centre
The Discovery Centre is a must-visit for families, offering hands-on fun for younger visitors. :child:
Book Paid Exhibitions Online
For special exhibitions like 'Minerals of the Viking Age', booking online can save you time. :computer:
Explore Multiple Floors
The museum is spread across five floors, with something new to discover on each level. :arrowupdown:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry for All!
Most permanent exhibits are free, making it a great value. Paid exhibitions offer unique experiences. :ticket:
Kid-Friendly Discovery Centre
The Discovery Centre is a must-visit for families, offering hands-on fun for younger visitors. :child:
Book Paid Exhibitions Online
For special exhibitions like 'Minerals of the Viking Age', booking online can save you time. :computer:
Explore Multiple Floors
The museum is spread across five floors, with something new to discover on each level. :arrowupdown:
Cafe Can Be Busy
The on-site cafe is popular and can get crowded, especially during peak times. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the South Australian Museum for its free general admission and the depth of its collections, particularly the Aboriginal Cultures Gallery and natural history exhibits. It's highlighted as a great, peaceful place for all ages, with the Discovery Centre being a hit for families. Some note that the cafe can be pricey and busy, and booking paid exhibitions online is advised.
"🏛️Great place for when the weather isn’t good.
I visited the free exhibitions and was really impressed. I loved the part of aboriginal history, as you can learn a lot through different media’s. Maps, videos, auto, games and of course the classic showcase.
The staff were great as well, helpful, efficient and friendly.
I liked the atmosphere, it was quiet and peaceful. It wasn’t full so it was nice to just take your time with the exhibition.
There are plenty of car parks very close to it or you just take the public transport which is also great!
In the museum there is also a cafe, which was full and very popular.
If you are interested in more specific exhibitions then they offer paid admission as well. 25$ to see (currently) the history of the Vikings. I think that’s a pretty fair price.
All in all great way to spend a few hours."
jOHANN
"What a great place! And no admission fee! So much for the kids to see and explore. The cafe is a little pricey but you expect that. Beautifully kept and laid out. The kids especially loved the discovery room where they could touch and explore things."
Brooke Macey
"The Aboriginal portion of the museum is amazing. So much information. Very much enjoyed it.
Overall, well curated across all the floors. You can easily visit multiple times."
Maria D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The South Australian Museum is centrally located in Adelaide. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. There are also several car parks close to the museum, making it convenient for drivers.
Yes, there are plenty of car parks very close to the South Australian Museum, making it a convenient option for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Public transport is a great way to get to the South Australian Museum, with numerous bus routes serving the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The good news is that most of the permanent exhibitions at the South Australian Museum are free to enter! However, special temporary exhibitions may have an admission fee.
General admission to the South Australian Museum is free. For specific paid exhibitions, like the 'Minerals of the Viking Age', prices are reasonable, around $25.
For the free general exhibitions, booking in advance is not usually necessary. However, for popular paid exhibitions, it's recommended to buy tickets online to avoid queues.
The museum's opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. The Discovery Centre has specific hours, typically open on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors rave about the Aboriginal Cultures Gallery, the extensive Mammals of the World collection, and the impressive Giant Squid. The Discovery Centre is also a highlight for families.
Yes, the South Australian Museum is very family-friendly! The Discovery Centre offers hands-on activities, and the diverse exhibits capture children's imaginations.
The Discovery Centre is a special interactive area designed for children, where they can touch and explore various exhibits, making learning fun and engaging. It's typically open on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in the South Australian Museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas.
The museum houses a vast collection, including natural history artifacts, minerals, fossils, and a significant exploration of Aboriginal culture and history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the South Australian Museum has an on-site cafe that is quite popular. Visitors mention it can be busy, and while the coffee and cake are good, prices might be a bit higher than average.
Given its central location, there are numerous cafes and restaurants in the vicinity of the South Australian Museum, offering a variety of dining choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the South Australian Museum. However, always be mindful of any signage indicating restricted areas or exhibits where photography is not permitted.
The museum's architecture, like the Armoury Courtyard, can be quite picturesque. Special exhibitions, such as the Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year, offer stunning visual content. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the Discovery Centre, the Mammals of the World exhibit and the Giant Squid are often big hits with children. The museum's layout across multiple floors also adds an element of adventure to the exploration. It's a great way to spend a few hours learning and discovering together.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some special exhibitions have a fee, the free exhibits alone offer hours of engaging content. You can easily spend a whole day here, making it one of Adelaide's best free attractions. Pack a picnic or be mindful of cafe prices if you're looking to save on food costs.
🏛️ Culture Enthusiasts
With its extensive collections spanning natural history and human cultures, the museum provides a rich tapestry of knowledge. It's a place where you can spend hours delving into the intricacies of the natural world and the diverse stories of human civilization.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Aboriginal Cultures
Many visitors highlight the Aboriginal portion as a standout experience, appreciating the depth of information and the thoughtful curation. It's a space that encourages reflection and learning, providing a vital perspective on Australia's heritage. The museum has also been involved in the respectful repatriation of ancestral remains, underscoring its commitment to Indigenous communities.
This gallery is not just a display of objects; it's an invitation to connect with the stories and wisdom of the First Peoples of Australia. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and understanding.
A World of Natural Wonders
Another fascinating exhibit is the Giant Squid, a colossal marine creature whose presence is felt throughout the museum with parts of its immense form displayed on multiple levels. This offers a unique opportunity to learn about deep-sea life and the mysteries of the ocean. The museum also showcases minerals, fossils, and other geological wonders, providing a comprehensive look at the Earth's natural history.
These natural history collections are meticulously curated, offering a journey through time and across continents. They serve as a powerful reminder of the planet's diverse ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts.
Family Fun and Discovery
Beyond the Discovery Centre, the museum's diverse range of exhibits, from ancient artifacts to fascinating creatures, can captivate children of all ages. The free general admission makes it an accessible outing for families looking for an educational and entertaining experience. Planning a visit around the Discovery Centre's opening hours is recommended for families with young children.
With its engaging displays and interactive elements, the South Australian Museum provides an enriching environment where families can learn and explore together, making it a top choice for a day out in Adelaide.
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