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Museum of Medical History: A Glimpse into the Past

Explore medical history through fascinating artifacts & exhibits. See how medicine evolved in Sacramento since the 1800s.

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The Museum of Medical History in Sacramento offers a fascinating look at the evolution of medicine from the mid-1800s to the present day. Through a variety of exhibits, visitors can explore the advancements and sometimes unsettling practices that have shaped modern healthcare.

A brief summary to Museum of Medical History

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help maintain the museum's operations.
  • Check the museum's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours of operation, as they can vary.
  • Consider booking a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
  • The museum is small and can be explored in about an hour or two.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Sacramento, take Sacramento Regional Transit bus route 30 towards 'Elvas Ave & 53rd St'. Disembark at the 'Elvas Ave & 53rd St' stop. Walk south on Elvas Ave for about 5 minutes; the museum is on the left at 5380 Elvas Ave. SacRT bus fare is approximately $2.50 for a single ride.

  • Driving

    If driving from downtown Sacramento, head east on I-50 E. Take exit 1A for 16th St toward CA-99 N. Merge onto CA-99 N and take exit 1A for Broadway. Continue straight on Broadway, then turn left onto Elvas Ave. The Museum of Medical History will be on the right at 5380 Elvas Ave. Onsite parking is available. Parking is free.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    For a direct route, use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Enter 'Museum of Medical History, 5380 Elvas Ave, Sacramento, CA 95819' as the destination. The fare from downtown Sacramento is approximately $10-$20.

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Discover more about Museum of Medical History

Step back in time at the Museum of Medical History in Sacramento, a unique institution dedicated to showcasing the evolution of medical science in the Sacramento Valley since the mid-1800s. Located in East Sacramento, the museum offers a captivating journey through the history of medicine with its diverse collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays. The museum is organized into thematic sections, each focusing on a specific aspect of medical history. Visitors can explore displays covering a range of topics including patent medicines and pharmacology, basic science and laboratory medicine, antibiotics and infectious diseases, medical diagnosis and therapy, surgical practices, nursing, Asian medicine, radiology, and even quackery. Among the museum's intriguing displays is a fully functioning 1950s-era iron lung, offering a glimpse into past methods of treating polio. Other significant artifacts include Civil War-era amputation kits, antique surgical instruments, and a turn-of-the-century doctor's office diorama. The collection also features a variety of 19th-century medical tools, such as bleeding cups, ether masks, and medicines containing mercury, arsenic, and strychnine, illustrating the trial-and-error nature of early medical treatments. The museum also offers virtual tours, school programs, and a lecture series.

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