National Law Enforcement Museum

At 444 E St NW in Washington, DC, the National Law Enforcement Museum traces more than 300 years of American law enforcement through artifacts and interactive exhibits. Try the patrol driving and decision-making simulators, then visit the adjacent National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, which honors officers who died in the line of duty. The museum connects the history of policing with the work officers do today, and children enter free. Check simulator session times before you go; the museum is open Thursday through Saturday.

History through objects and exhibits

The museum brings together more than 300 years of American law enforcement history. Its collection includes over 20,000 objects relating to the past, present and future of law enforcement in the United States. Exhibits and educational installations give visitors ways to explore that history and the work of law enforcement.

The museum also has interactive activities for different ages. Children can enter free, and family programs and tours take place throughout the year. Check ahead for program details and simulator session times.

Interactive training simulators

Two activities put visitors in simulated law enforcement situations: a patrol driving simulator and a decision-making simulator. The latter presents scenarios that call for a response, while the driving activity gives visitors a chance to take the wheel in a training setting. Session times can affect how you plan your visit, so check them in advance.

The museum stands beside the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Visiting both places connects the museum’s account of law enforcement with a memorial to officers who died in the line of duty.