The South Australian Museum, located in Adelaide, is a renowned natural history museum and research institution that has been committed to showcasing Australia's natural and cultural heritage for over 165 years. The museum is home to the world's largest collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural material, with over 3,000 artifacts on display, and the culturally significant Yuendumu Doors. Visitors can explore various galleries, including the South Australian Biodiversity Gallery, which highlights the land and marine wildlife of the region with touch screens, interactive elements, and a wealth of information. Other galleries feature Pacific Cultures, Megafauna, Opalised Fossils, Polar, Ediacaran, Minerals, and the Ancient Egyptian Room. The ever-popular Discovery Centre on level one provides direct access to staff for identification of objects and assistance with research. The South Australian Museum also hosts a vibrant program of temporary exhibitions, including the prestigious annual Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize. With its commitment to remote and regional community engagement and Australian Aboriginal heritage and scientific research, the museum is a leader in its field.
In addition to the South Australian Museum, Adelaide is home to several other notable museums and galleries, such as Adelaide Zoo, which is committed to animal welfare and conservation; Cape Jaffa Lighthouse Museum in Kingston SE, showcasing the history of the Cape Jaffa Lighthouse; Art Gallery of South Australia, featuring a wide range of art from various periods and cultures; and South Australian Maritime Museum in Port Adelaide, focusing on the maritime history of the region. These museums and galleries offer a diverse range of experiences for visitors to Adelaide, allowing them to immerse themselves in the rich cultural and natural heritage of South Australia.