BODY WORLDS: The Anatomy of Happiness is now open at Northbridge Centre, bringing Perth an extraordinary, museum-style exploration of the human body. Using real donated specimens preserved through Gunther von Hagens’ renowned plastination process, this international exhibition reveals how our organs, muscles, nerves and bones function—and how factors like movement, sleep, stress, and positive emotions can influence health and quality of life at every age. With a clear, respectful presentation and an optional audio guide you access on your phone, it’s an insightful visit for anyone curious about health, wellbeing and the mind–body connection.
What you’ll see inside
Expect a carefully curated journey through anatomy and wellbeing:
- Real human specimens: Full-body plastinates, individual organs and transparent “body slices” show the body’s systems in remarkable detail, including the effects of certain diseases on tissues and organs.
- The Anatomy of Happiness theme: Clear displays explain how feelings, social connection, and daily habits can influence heart health, brain function, sleep quality and overall vitality.
- Dedicated areas by system: Exhibits highlight cardiovascular health, brain and nervous system function, the musculoskeletal system, and more—ideal if you’d like to focus on specific topics like joint mechanics or memory and mood.
- Interactive elements: The popular “Anatomical Mirror” maps where your organs sit as you stand before it—an engaging way to connect the displays to your own body.
- Presentation and pace: The exhibition is calm, informative, and self-guided, with thoughtful lighting and text panels that invite you to take your time.
Note: One gallery contains mature content depicting sexual intercourse. It is signposted at the venue so you can easily choose to skip it.
Practical information
- Location: Northbridge Centre, 30 Beaufort St, Perth. Enter from the corner of Beaufort Street and Roe Street. Get Directions
- Opening: Sessions from November 2025 (check the latest calendar when booking)
- Duration: Allow 60–90 minutes
- Tickets: From $32 (adults). Advance booking recommended: Buy Tickets
- Audio guide: Included via QR code—bring a charged phone and your own headphones
- Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible. One Companion/Carer Card holder may enter free with the paying guest they accompany (see FAQs on the official site)
- Facilities: Restrooms available; no cloakroom
- Photos: Allowed (no flash or tripods)
- Parking: Secure Parking on site, plus metered street parking on Stirling and James Streets
- Indoors and air-conditioned: Comfortable in any weather
Ticketing is managed via Fever. Date changes are typically allowed up to 48 hours in advance via Fever; refunds are generally not offered except as required under Australian Consumer Law.
If you organise visits for a club or community group (Probus, U3A, Men’s Sheds, walking groups, or similar), the Group Bookings section offers streamlined options for 16+ visitors, and there are dedicated notes for educational groups. Healthcare professionals may also book group sessions for continued learning.
Tips for a comfortable visit
- Quieter times: Early weekday sessions are often more relaxed and can make it easier to read panels and move at your own pace.
- Bring your headphones: Over‑ear or noise‑isolating headphones improve clarity for the audio guide.
- Reading comfort: Pack reading glasses if you use them—there’s a lot of interesting text and labels to enjoy.
- Take your time: There’s a lot to absorb; short pauses make it easier to take in detail. Most visitors are comfortable at 60–90 minutes.
- Plan refreshments: There is no food or drink for sale on site. Northbridge has many nearby cafés and restaurants for a pre‑ or post‑exhibition stop.
Learning resources
If you enjoy structured learning—or you’re visiting with family and want conversation starters—free resources are available:
These concise guides are useful even for adults, as they distil key themes and provide prompts you can revisit at home.
For full details, dates, and ticketing, head to the official site: BODY WORLDS Perth.
