Where to See Bodies in Atlanta, GA: Museums, Medical Exhibits, and Learning Experiences
When people search for “Bodies Atlanta GA,” they are usually looking for one of two things:
- The famous human anatomy exhibitions (like the former “BODIES…The Exhibition”), or
- Where in Atlanta you can learn about the human body through museums, medical centers, or educational experiences.
Atlanta has hosted traveling “bodies” exhibits in the past, and it also offers several permanent, year-round places where you can explore anatomy, health, and the human body in an educational and respectful way.
Below is a practical guide, focused specifically on Atlanta, Georgia, to help you understand:
- What “bodies” exhibits are and whether they are in Atlanta now
- Where you can go in Atlanta for body/anatomy-related experiences
- How to find current or upcoming “Bodies” shows in the city
- Options for students, parents, tourists, and healthcare-interested residents
Are “Bodies” Exhibitions Currently in Atlanta?
The well-known “BODIES…The Exhibition” and similar shows are typically traveling exhibitions. They use real human specimens preserved and displayed for educational purposes.
As of recent years:
- Atlanta has hosted these exhibits in the past, often at larger venues or tourist attractions.
- They are not permanent in the city; they come and go, depending on touring schedules.
- To find out if a “Bodies” exhibit is in Atlanta right now, people commonly:
- Check the events or exhibits calendar for major local attractions
- Look at touring museum exhibit schedules
- Search specifically for the exhibit name plus “Atlanta” and current year
Because touring schedules change, it’s best to verify upcoming dates directly with the hosting venue once you identify a show.
Atlanta Places to Learn About the Human Body
Even if a branded “Bodies” exhibition is not currently in town, Atlanta has several strong permanent options where you can explore the human body, health, and biology.
1. Fernbank Museum of Natural History
While Fernbank focuses on natural history, it often includes content related to biology, evolution, and life sciences, which can touch on the human body.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
767 Clifton Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30307
Phone: (404) 929-6300
Things you might find relevant:
- Exhibits about life on Earth, evolution, and comparative anatomy
- Occasional temporary or traveling exhibits that focus on health or biology
- Giant screen films in the theater that may cover topics like the human body, space, or nature
If you’re specifically interested in anatomy or health, check their current and upcoming exhibit listings to see whether any are body-focused at the time of your visit.
2. Children’s Museums and Family Learning Centers
If you have kids and you’re looking for age-appropriate ways to learn about the human body in Atlanta, children’s museums and similar centers can be very helpful.
While displays change, these types of venues often include:
- Interactive exhibits on how the body works
- Simple models of the heart, lungs, and skeleton
- Hands-on activities about nutrition, movement, and health habits
Because these exhibits are frequently updated, it’s wise to check the current gallery descriptions and calendars for details.
3. Science and Health-Focused Events in Atlanta
Throughout the year, Atlanta hosts science festivals, health fairs, and public STEM events that sometimes include anatomy, medical demonstrations, or health education.
Two big patterns to watch for:
Atlanta Science Festival (citywide event each spring)
- Often includes biology and health-related activities, including demonstrations of how the body works, brain-focused talks, and more.
- Events usually happen at multiple venues across the city (universities, parks, museums, and community centers).
Hospital and university public outreach events
- Large healthcare systems and universities in Atlanta occasionally host health fairs, open houses, or lecture series.
- These may feature models of organs, interactive displays, and informational booths focused on preventive care and understanding the body.
Because these events change year to year, it’s helpful to check:
- The Atlanta Science Festival schedule
- Public event calendars at major universities and hospitals
University and Medical Campus Learning Opportunities
Atlanta is home to several major medical and academic institutions. While most of their detailed anatomy labs and cadaver programs are limited to students and professionals, there are some public-facing resources and occasional events.
1. Emory University (Emory School of Medicine)
Emory University Hospital & Emory University School of Medicine
1364 Clifton Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30322
Phone (general): (404) 727-6123 (Emory University main line)
Emory’s medical campus includes:
- Medical education facilities with anatomy labs for students
- Potential public lectures or community health programs offered through various departments
- Occasional participation in citywide science or health festivals
These resources are primarily academic, but if you’re a prospective student or very interested in a healthcare career, Emory is one of the key institutions to explore.
2. Morehouse School of Medicine
Morehouse School of Medicine
720 Westview Drive SW
Atlanta, GA 30310
Phone: (404) 752-1500
Morehouse School of Medicine offers:
- Training in medicine and health sciences
- Opportunities for community engagement, health screenings, and education
- Events and outreach that sometimes help the public better understand health, anatomy, and disease prevention
While you won’t typically “tour” an anatomy lab, staying aware of Morehouse’s public programs or community health efforts can be a good way to learn more about the human body and health in an Atlanta context.
Body Donation and Medical Education in Atlanta
A different but related topic some Atlanta residents search for under “bodies Atlanta GA” is body donation for medical education and research.
If you are considering this, the process is usually organized through university-based programs and must follow strict legal and ethical guidelines.
Key Points About Body Donation in Atlanta
- Programs are typically run by medical schools, not by touring exhibits.
- Donated bodies are used for teaching anatomy, surgical training, and research, primarily for medical students and professionals.
- There are detailed consent forms, eligibility criteria, and procedures that must be followed.
In Atlanta, people often look to:
- Emory University School of Medicine – Body Donation Program
(Contact via Emory University’s anatomy or medical education offices)
If this is of interest, you can contact the relevant university department directly and request information on:
- How to register as a potential donor
- What happens after passing
- How remains are handled and returned (if applicable)
This is a personal and sensitive decision, and Atlanta’s medical schools typically provide clear written materials to help families understand the process.
For Students and Aspiring Healthcare Professionals in Atlanta
If your interest in “bodies” is more about learning anatomy seriously or preparing for a healthcare career, Atlanta offers multiple pathways.
Local Education Options
Atlanta-area students commonly explore:
- High school anatomy and physiology courses in Atlanta Public Schools and surrounding districts
- Technical colleges and health-focused programs offering classes in medical assisting, nursing, or allied health fields
- Undergraduate pre-med or biology tracks at universities such as:
- Georgia State University (downtown Atlanta)
- Emory University
- Clark Atlanta University and other schools in the Atlanta University Center
These programs often include:
- Lab-based learning with anatomical models
- In more advanced settings, dissection and cadaver labs (usually limited to enrolled students in professional programs)
If you live in Atlanta and want more hands-on exposure to human anatomy, consider:
- Talking with a school counselor about classes that cover the human body
- Attending public lectures or open days hosted by local universities
- Volunteering or shadowing (when allowed) in healthcare environments
Quick Reference: Atlanta “Bodies” and Human-Body Learning Options
Below is a simple overview of main options you might consider in Atlanta:
| Interest Type | Atlanta Option/Setting | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Touring “Bodies” exhibition | Traveling exhibit (not permanent) | Real human specimens; educational displays; check event listings for current availability. |
| Family-friendly body learning | Museums & children’s centers | Interactive displays on health, organs, movement, and growth. |
| General science and body education | Fernbank Museum, citywide science events | Biology and life science exhibits; occasional health-related features. |
| Medical/anatomy education (students) | Emory, Morehouse, Georgia State, other colleges | Formal courses, labs, and professional training; mostly for enrolled students. |
| Understanding health and disease | Public health fairs, hospital events, community programs | Screenings, informational booths, demonstrations, and talks. |
| Body donation for education/research | University-based donation programs (e.g., Emory) | Structured, pre-arranged process with detailed consent and information. |
How to Find a Current “Bodies” Exhibit in Atlanta
If your goal is specifically to visit a “Bodies” or human anatomy exhibition with real preserved specimens while you’re in Atlanta, here’s a simple approach:
Search for the exhibit name plus “Atlanta GA” and the current year.
Look for listings from major venues or ticketing platforms.Check major Atlanta attractions’ exhibit calendars, such as:
- Large museums
- Major tourist destinations
- Convention centers
Verify directly with the venue once you find a listing.
- Confirm dates, hours, ticket prices, and any age or content advisories.
Plan for parking or transit.
Many Atlanta attractions are accessible via MARTA (rail and bus), and most also offer on-site or nearby parking.
What People in Atlanta Typically Want to Know Before Going
If you do find a “Bodies” exhibit in Atlanta or a similarly intense anatomy display, locals often wonder about:
- Age appropriateness: Exhibits with real human bodies can be graphic. Families judge differently, but many shows post recommended minimum ages.
- Cultural and ethical considerations: Some people prefer to read about how exhibit specimens were obtained and how consent is handled.
- Content focus: Some shows emphasize health education (e.g., smoking effects, obesity, heart health), while others focus more on pure anatomy and structure.
- Accessibility: Atlanta venues usually provide information about wheelchair access, elevators, and sensory considerations.
Checking these details ahead of time helps you decide if a particular exhibit is the right fit for your group.
Putting It All Together for Atlanta
If you’re in Atlanta, GA and searching for “bodies”:
- A branded “Bodies” exhibition may or may not be in town at a given moment; it’s touring, not permanent.
- You can still explore the human body and health through Atlanta’s museums, science events, children’s learning centers, and major medical institutions.
- For deeper or more formal learning, Atlanta’s universities and medical schools offer structured programs and, in some cases, body donation options under strict, respectful guidelines.
With a bit of checking on current exhibits and local event listings, you can find an Atlanta experience that matches exactly how you want to learn about the human body—whether you’re a visitor, a resident, a parent, or a future healthcare professional.