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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Museums

National Law Enforcement Museum

An immersive, mostly underground facility in Judiciary Square that explores 300 years of American law enforcement through 25,000 artifacts and interactive "walk in the shoes" experiences.

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National Law Enforcement Museum
www.nleomf.org, og_image_www.nleomf.org

What is the National Law Enforcement Museum known for?

The museum is known for interpreting American law enforcement through immersive exhibitions, interactive exhibits, and a collection of more than 25,000 artifacts spanning over 300 years.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission is $22 for adults (18-64) and $20 for seniors (65+) and students with ID. It is free for youth aged 17 and under.

What are the hours?

The museum is generally open Thursday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. It is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays, including Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, the museum offers a 'walk in the shoes' visitor experience and is free for youth 17 and under.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the facility is fully wheelchair accessible, including all exhibits, the café, the Museum Store, and the Visitor Services desk.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Opened on October 13, 2018, the National Law Enforcement Museum serves as a comprehensive center for interpreting the history and evolution of American policing. The museum is a mostly underground facility located in Washington, D.C.'s Judiciary Square, situated adjacent to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and near several federal and district courthouses. Visitors are invited to engage with a collection of more than 25,000 artifacts that span over 300 years of law enforcement history. The museum utilizes a "walk in the shoes" approach, employing immersive exhibitions and interactive exhibits to tell the story of the profession. Beyond historical displays, the museum provides dedicated spaces for research and educational programming designed to strengthen the relationship between the community and law enforcement. The facility is designed for modern accessibility and visitor comfort. It is fully wheelchair accessible, including all exhibits, the museum store, and the visitor services desk. For those needing a break, a self-serve café is located on the mezzanine level, where guests can purchase cold drinks and snacks or enjoy food brought from home.

Visitor tips

  • Plan your visit for Thursday through Saturday between 10 AM and 5 PM, as the museum is closed Sundays and Mondays.
  • Youth aged 17 and under can enter for free, while adults pay $22.
  • Visit the mezzanine level café for a quiet spot to eat snacks or cold drinks during your tour.
  • Check for special events, such as the Summer Celebration held between mid-June and early September.

Nearby context

The museum is centrally located in Judiciary Square, positioned across the street from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and within walking distance of several district and federal courthouses.

Sources

Evidence and links