South Australian Museum: A Journey Through Natural and Cultural History
Explore millions of specimens and objects at the South Australian Museum, from natural history to Aboriginal culture, in the heart of Adelaide.
The South Australian Museum, established in 1856, is a natural history museum and research institution located on North Terrace in Adelaide. With over 5 million objects and specimens, the museum boasts diverse collections, including the world's largest collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural material.
A brief summary to South Australian Museum
- North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, AU
- +61882077500
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery to see a comprehensive collection of Aboriginal cultural material.
- Check out the Discovery Centre for interactive exhibits, especially engaging for families.
- Explore the museum's diverse galleries, including South Australian Biodiversity, Pacific Cultures, and the Ancient Egyptian Room.
- Take advantage of the museum's free entry to explore its extensive collections.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Adelaide city center, the South Australian Museum is a leisurely walk along North Terrace. Head east towards the Art Gallery of South Australia and the State Library; the museum is located between these landmarks. The walk is approximately 1.5km and should take around 15-20 minutes.
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Public Transport
Adelaide Metro provides convenient access to the museum. Several bus routes stop along North Terrace, near the museum. Alternatively, take the tram to the Rundle Mall stop and walk east along North Terrace. A single trip on public transport costs around $5. Check the Adelaide Metro website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services offer a direct route to the museum. A taxi from the Adelaide CBD to the South Australian Museum typically costs between $7 and $10, depending on traffic. Keep in mind that taxi fares include a flagfall fee, distance rate, and potential surcharges for card payments or peak periods. There is also a $2 Point to Point Transport Service Transaction Levy charged once per journey.
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Parking
Limited parking is available near the museum. There is one accessible car park at the rear of the Museum, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Entry to the car park is through the boom gate on Morgan Thomas Lane, off Kintore Avenue. Please ensure your valid disability parking permit is displayed. Wilson Parking on North Terrace (opposite the Museum) and UPark on Gawler Place are alternative options. UPark Gawler Place charges between $5 and $33 depending on the length of stay. Prebooking and early bird rates are available.
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