The Crime Museum closed their doors in Washington, D.C. on October 1, 2015.
Just south of the Capital One Arena lies a small, quirky museum dedicated to the study of crime, law enforcement, forensic science, and the treatment of criminals: The National Museum of Crime and Punishment.
In the exhibit “A Notorious History of Crime,” discover the infamous characters in America’s criminal history. Practice your sharp-shooting, crack a safe, or try to hack a computer. “Punishment: The Consequence of Crime” consists of a full-scale model police station complete with a booking station, police line-up, lie detector test, and jail cell—plus an electric chair and a lethal injection machine. In “Crime Fighting,” you can test-drive a high-speed police chase simulator or shoot at an FBI range.
Just like on television, “CSI Experience” lets visitors use forensic techniques to help solve a crime while learning about famous cold cases and the treatment of crime in the media. Lastly, the museum is host to the TV show, “America’s Most Wanted.” Walk onto the set and see how community involvement in law enforcement has led to the capture of many fugitives. Parental discretion is advised for some of these exhibits, but other sections—like “The Pirate Life,” “Crack a Safe,” or “Police Line-Up” are perfect for kids.
For an extra $5, you can pick up a “CSI Adventure” casebook at the door and spend your time in the museum solving riddles, cracking codes, and engaging in a shoot-out, in an attempt to crack the case before time runs out. When you’re done, check out the Cop Shop, located on the first floor. You can buy anything from handcuff earrings to “I just spent nine months in solitary!” onesies.
Travel Tips
Admission tickets for the museum are date- and time-specific. Advance tickets are recommended—not only do you not have to wait in line, but they’re less expensive than tickets bought the day of your visit.
The Crime Museum closed their doors in Washington, D.C. on October 1, 2015.
For more visit www.crimemuseum.org.
Travel InformationNational Museum of Crime and Punishment Hours: Closed Admission: Closed Parking: The museum does not have its own parking, but there are paid parking garages nearby. Public transportation is strongly recommended, however. Metrorail: Red Line or Yellow and Green Line to Gallery Place/Chinatown (Arena Exit) |
Charlotte Sullivan says
October 22, 2012 at 1:23 pmHi I am visiting Washington DC during the new year, I am a police officer in England and was wondering if the law enforcement discount would also apply to myself?
Thank you
The District says
October 22, 2012 at 6:04 pmI called the museum with your question, and was told that as long as you had an ID that shows you are law enforcement, you would receive the discount.