Los Angeles Police Museum

In Highland Park, the Los Angeles Police Museum occupies the city’s oldest surviving police station, a historic building constructed in 1925 and 1926. Its exhibits trace the LAPD’s history from its founding in 1869 to the present through photographs, artifacts and displays about notable events. Look for Shirly, a historic switchboard, and Petunia, a rescue vehicle, as well as the police cars and jail cells. Guided tours add context to the collection; call ahead before making the trip, since private events or filming can affect public visits.

A museum in a former police station

The museum is in Highland Park, in the city’s oldest surviving police station. Built between 1925 and 1926, the building is recognized as a Historic Cultural Monument and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The former station gives the collection a direct connection to the history it presents.

The Los Angeles Police Historical Society formed in 1989 to develop a museum about the LAPD. Its collection follows the department from its founding on March 10, 1869, through the present. Photographs, objects and displays place the department’s history within the story of Los Angeles.

Exhibits, vehicles and tours

Among the objects to look for are Shirly, a switchboard, and Petunia, a rescue vehicle. Other displays include police cars and jail cells, alongside material about historic police events and famous crimes. Some exhibit layouts can be difficult to follow, so take time to orient yourself as you move between rooms.

A guided tour can help connect the exhibits and the building’s history. Staff members can also provide context about the collection. The museum is relatively small, but a visit can take two to four hours, depending on how closely you explore the displays and whether you take a tour.