Readers, you may be surprised to learn that numerous Universities across Australia house their very own museums. Upon learning that the University of NSW (UNSW) boasts the Museum of Human Disease, and being fascinated by human anatomy, we had to visit and check it off our best museums to visit in Sydney!
The Museum of Human Disease
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Established in 1959 by Professor Donald Wilhelm (the foundation Professor of Pathology at UNSW), the Museum of Human Disease houses over 2,500 diseased human tissue specimens.
Visitors to the UNSW Museum of Human Disease can expect to explore several bays, each showcasing human disease across different organs (for example, a bay of lungs, a bay of hearts etc). This provides a unique opportunity to learn about numerous illnesses’ manifestations, causes, and effects through real specimens such as organs, tissues, and anatomical models.
Each exhibit is designed to provide insights into the pathology and epidemiology of diseases, offering a comprehensive educational experience on human health and medical science.
We visited during the school holidays (the museum is only open Monday to Friday) and were a little surprised to find it so busy.
Whilst the museum exhibits are well labelled, we did request one of the museum booklets which explains the different bays as you wander through the museum. Make sure you grab one to enrich your learning during your visit.
image provided by the Museum of Human Disease
Opening Times
The Museum of Human Disease is open Monday to Friday from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm. It is closed on weekends and on public holidays.
Would you recommend the Museum of Human Disease for Kids?
I would like to note that I do not recommend this museum for younger childen. The museum features human organs and tissue. It can be confronting and I wonder if younger children would successfully navigate the space with the respect it deserves.
Can I take photographs in the Museum of Human Disease?
No. Photography and videos are not permitted within the museum.
Where to Find the Museum of Human Disease
Don’t let Google Maps trick you into thinking that the Museum of Human Disease is far! We found it super easy to find, catching a train to Central Station and then jumping on the T2 Tram from Central to the UNSW tram stop. The tram took no more than 20 minutes.
The walk from the tram stop to the museum is short and accessible. I recommend using public transport to get to the museum; parking in this Sydney area is tricky.
How much does the Museum of Human Disease cost?
Whilst the museum is free for students and teachers, there is a small cost for most visitors. Payment is via card only.
Are there bathrooms nearby?
There are bathrooms within a few metres of the museum’s entry. They are well maintained.
Where and when to visit
Opening Times: Monday to Friday
Ticket Prices: nominal entry fee
Address: UNSW Sydney, Samuels Building, Ground Floor, UNSW NSW 2052
Website: head to the Museum of Human Disease.
Other University museums to visit
Chau Chak Wing Museum at Sydney University