Mütter Museum
America's finest museum of medical history, showcasing over 20,000 anatomical specimens and medical oddities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore.
Mütter Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
America's finest museum of medical history, showcasing over 20,000 anatomical specimens and medical oddities.
"A truly fascinating and unique place to visit, offering a deep dive into the history of medicine."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Mutter Museum tickets sell out fast! Book ahead to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Walk or SEPTA
The museum is walkable from Reading Terminal or accessible via SEPTA. Parking can be tricky.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Hyrtl Skull Collection
Main Exhibition Hall
Over 130 human skulls, each with unique details and stories. A profound look at individuality.
The Soap Lady
Pathology Exhibit
A woman whose body turned into adipocere (grave wax) after burial. A truly unique preservation.
Anatomical Skeletons & Skeletons
Various Exhibits
See everything from conjoined twins to the skeleton of a woman whose liver was impacted by corsetry.
Historical Medical Instruments
Medical Oddities Exhibit
Explore antique surgical tools and early medical devices that highlight the evolution of healthcare.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Prepare for the Macabre
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Mutter Museum tickets sell out fast! Book ahead to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Walk or SEPTA
The museum is walkable from Reading Terminal or accessible via SEPTA. Parking can be tricky.
🚫 No Photos Allowed
To respect the deceased, photography is prohibited inside the museum.
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
You can easily spend 2-4 hours exploring the extensive collection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Mutter Museum tickets sell out fast! Book ahead to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Walk or SEPTA
The museum is walkable from Reading Terminal or accessible via SEPTA. Parking can be tricky.
🚫 No Photos Allowed
To respect the deceased, photography is prohibited inside the museum.
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
You can easily spend 2-4 hours exploring the extensive collection.
🌡️ It Can Get Warm
Some visitors note the museum can be a bit warm inside, especially during peak times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mutter Museum for its fascinating and unique collection, offering a deep dive into medical history and human anatomy. The staff is often highlighted for their welcoming nature, and the gift shop provides a fun takeaway. While the exhibits are undeniably graphic, many find them incredibly informative and thought-provoking, making it a must-visit for the curious.
"I've wanted to visit the Mutter for a long time, so I'm glad we could fit it into our visit to Philly. I opted to buy tickets about 30 minutes before arriving since we were walking from the Reading Terminal area (about a 1.5 mile flat walk).
We spent about an hour and enjoyed it, even though it was a bit warm inside. Lovely staff and volunteers. Cute little gift shop. Public areas where you can rest and possible parking, but I didn't want to risk it.
There is also a SEPTA station out front. We took that on the way back, but it honestly probably took longer than if we had walked back."
Jessie Carty
"I was looking for something to do and decided to go to the Mütter Museum. Busy for a weekend but not packed, which made it easy to take it all in. The exhibits are interesting. The staff is incredibly welcoming. Kesha (hope I spelled that right!) delivered five-star hospitality. No photos allowed, which honestly preserves the mystery. Glad I went."
Marcello L.
"Went August 18 as I’ve been wanting to go the past year and HIGHLY RECOMMEND. I appreciate how this museum admits to any forced/ illegal takings of certain specimens and highlights those who willingly donated organs/skeletons/whole bodies. I loved how they incorporated some personalities of those who donated, such as the lady with the Jewelry. It really makes it feel like those who lie in there aren’t just pieces of flesh and bone, but someone who once had memories. They really did present both the past and present takes on medicine, and how the media and what we believe in really are what allows medicine to advance or not. The older gentleman who works at the gift shop was super funny and a great positive highlight of the visit :)!"
Samantha Gomez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mutter Museum is located at 19 S 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103. It's easily accessible by public transportation; the SEPTA station is right out front. Many visitors also find it walkable from areas like Reading Terminal Market.
While there is pay-and-display parking onsite according to some sources, it can be limited and competitive. Many visitors opt for public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, the museum is located in a central part of Philadelphia. It's about a 1.5-mile walk from Reading Terminal Market, which many visitors find enjoyable.
For convenience and to avoid parking issues, taking SEPTA or walking are highly recommended. Ride-sharing services are also a good option.
The museum is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date accessibility information, especially regarding specific exhibits or facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but general admission is around $20 per person. It's highly recommended to check the official Mutter Museum website for current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance, as they often sell out.
Yes, it is strongly advised to buy your Mutter Museum tickets online in advance. They sell out quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment.
Mutter Museum hours typically vary by day and season. It's best to consult their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or members. Check the Mutter Museum's official website for any current discount offers or membership benefits.
While it might be possible on slower days, it's not guaranteed. Tickets often sell out in advance, so purchasing online ahead of time is the safest bet to ensure entry.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the Mutter Museum. This policy is in place to respect the deceased and preserve the integrity of the exhibits.
The no-photography rule is a measure to show respect for the anatomical specimens and historical artifacts, many of which are human remains. It also helps maintain the unique atmosphere of the museum.
Generally, there are no exceptions to the no-photography rule within the museum's exhibition spaces. However, you might be able to take photos in designated areas like the gift shop or exterior.
You can find Mutter Museum photos on their official website, social media channels, and through various travel blogs and articles. Remember that these are often curated and don't capture the full experience.
While you can't take photos inside, the exterior of the museum and the surrounding Philadelphia streets offer good photo opportunities. The museum's unique architecture can make for interesting shots.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The Mutter Museum is renowned for its vast collection of anatomical specimens, pathological oddities, and historical medical instruments, offering a unique glimpse into medical history.
Most visitors spend between 2 to 4 hours exploring the museum. You can easily spend longer if you wish to thoroughly examine every exhibit and read all the accompanying information.
The museum contains graphic medical specimens and is not suitable for all audiences. While fascinating, some find the content disturbing. It's recommended for those with a strong stomach and an interest in medical history.
Expect to see preserved human bodies, skeletons, anatomical models, historical medical tools, and displays on various diseases and medical conditions.
Yes, there is a gift shop that offers a variety of unique items, including books related to medical history, quirky souvenirs, and educational materials.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Mutter Museum does not have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are advised to eat before or after their visit.
There are many dining options in the vicinity of the Mutter Museum. Consider exploring restaurants in the Rittenhouse Square or Center City areas for a variety of cuisines.
Typically, food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum exhibits to protect the artifacts. Check their specific policies upon arrival.
A nice Mexican restaurant is suggested for discussing the museum's exhibits afterward, offering a relaxed setting to process the experience.
Yes, the surrounding Philadelphia neighborhoods offer numerous cafes and casual eateries perfect for a quick coffee or snack before or after your museum visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do decide to visit with children, it's highly recommended to preview the museum's content online or speak with staff beforehand to gauge suitability. Focus on the historical aspects, the evolution of medical tools, and perhaps the less graphic anatomical displays. Be prepared for open conversations about health, anatomy, and the human body in a sensitive manner.
🤔 Curious Minds & History Buffs
This museum is a treasure trove of information, providing a tangible connection to the past. You'll find yourself engrossed in the stories behind the specimens, the ingenuity of historical medical devices, and the scientific advancements that have shaped modern healthcare. It's an ideal destination for anyone who enjoys learning and exploring the more unconventional aspects of science and history.
❤️ Couples & Unique Date Ideas
While it might seem unconventional, a visit to the Mutter can be a fantastic way to bond over shared curiosity and a willingness to explore the extraordinary. Consider it a bold choice that shows you're adventurous and open to new experiences. Just be sure to follow up with a relaxed meal afterward to debrief and discuss your fascinating findings!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Dr. Mütter
Dr. Mütter's collection was not just about morbid curiosity; it was about understanding disease, anatomy, and the advancements in medical treatment. He emphasized the importance of direct observation and believed that seeing these specimens firsthand was invaluable for medical training. This dedication to education and preservation is evident in the museum's ongoing mission to provide a unique learning experience.
The museum continues to honor his legacy by maintaining and expanding its collection, while also engaging the public through exhibitions and educational programs that delve into the fascinating, and sometimes unsettling, world of medical history.
Navigating the Exhibits: What to Expect
You'll also find extensive displays of historical medical instruments, from early surgical tools to antique dental equipment, illustrating the evolution of medical practices. The museum doesn't shy away from the more unusual aspects of medicine, featuring exhibits on conjoined twins, anatomical anomalies, and even the effects of historical practices like tightlacing.
The museum also highlights the personal stories behind some of its specimens, humanizing the collection and providing context beyond just the scientific. While photography is prohibited, the detailed descriptions and the sheer visual impact of the exhibits make for a memorable and educational experience. Visitors are encouraged to take their time, read the informative panels, and engage with the material to fully appreciate the depth of medical history presented.
The Mutter Museum and Corsetry
Visitors can learn about how prolonged and severe corsetry could lead to deformities of the spine, ribs, and internal organs. The museum often features examples or descriptions of how corsets could allegedly affect a woman's liver, digestive system, and even posture. This exhibit serves as a stark reminder of historical beauty standards and their potentially detrimental effects on health.
This aspect of the collection is particularly fascinating for those interested in social history, fashion, and the intersection of culture and the human body. It provides a tangible link to the past and sparks conversations about body image and societal pressures across different eras.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit