National Museum of Crime and Punishment, Washington D.C.

Name: National Museum of Crime and Punishment
Address: 575 7th St NW, Washington D.C., 20004-1607, United States
Telephone: +1 202-393-1099

#59 among attractions in Washington D.C.

Museum, History museum, Specialty museum

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National Museum of Crime and Punishment, Washington D.C.

Facts and practical information

The National Museum of Crime and Punishment, often simply referred to as the Crime Museum, offers a stark and intriguing journey through the history of crime and its consequences in the United States. Located in the heart of Washington D.C., this museum provides an educational and immersive experience for those interested in the evolution of the American criminal justice system, forensic science, and the psychology behind crime.

The museum's exhibits span several floors and include a wide array of artifacts, interactive displays, and historical narratives. Visitors can explore the history of notorious criminals, delve into the world of forensic science, and even experience a simulated FBI shooting range. One of the highlights is the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) section, where guests can learn about the techniques used to solve crimes.

Another significant exhibit is the America's Most Wanted studio, which was used in the production of the famous television show that focused on capturing the nation's fugitives. This gives patrons a behind-the-scenes look at how media and law enforcement have collaborated to bring criminals to justice.

The museum also features a mock prison cell, providing a sobering glimpse into the realities of life behind bars. Additionally, there is an extensive section dedicated to the history of punishment, from medieval torture devices to the modern penal system.

While the museum offers a wealth of information that could appeal to true crime enthusiasts and legal scholars alike, it is designed to be accessible and engaging for the average tourist. Interactive elements and informative plaques make the complex subject matter approachable for visitors of all ages.

The National Museum of Crime and Punishment is an essential stop for anyone visiting Washington D.C. with an interest in the darker side of history and the intricacies of law enforcement. It provides a unique perspective on the societal impacts of crime and the ongoing efforts to combat it.

Alternative names: Coordinates: 38°53'48"N, 77°1'18"W

Address

575 7th St NWNorthwest Washington (Downtown-Penn Quarter-Chinatown)Washington D.C. 20004-1607 United States

Contact

+1 202-393-1099

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Day trips

National Museum of Crime and Punishment – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian American Art Museum, International Spy Museum, Ford's Theatre.

~490 ftNW
Art depicting historic American figures
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~510 ftW
Interactive exhibits about espionage
International Spy Museum, Washington D.C.
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~1160 ftW
Historic performing arts venue
Ford's Theatre, Washington D.C.
6 min walk • Ford's Theatre is a theater located in Washington, D.C. which opened in August 1863. It is infamous for being the site of the assassination of United States President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865.
~970 ftS
Memorial, Specialty museum, Monuments and statues
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~590 ftN
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Capital One Arena, Washington D.C.
3 min walk • Capital One Arena is an indoor arena in Washington, D.C. Located in the Penn Quarter neighborhood, the arena sits atop the Gallery Place rapid transit station of the Washington Metro.
~1160 ftE
Memorial, Monuments and statues
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~690 ftNW
Museum, Greek Revival architecture, Art museum
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~1130 ftN
Church
Calvary Baptist Church, Washington D.C.
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~1090 ftS
Monuments and statues
Stephenson Grand Army of the Republic Memorial, Washington D.C.
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~340 ftS
Theater
Harman Center for the Arts, Washington D.C.
2 min walk • The Harman Center for the Arts is a complex consisting of the Lansburgh Theatre and Sidney Harman Hall in downtown Washington, D.C. USA. SHH is the latest addition to the existing Lansburgh Theatre to create the new "Center For the Arts". Construction began in November 2004 and it opened on September 15, 2007.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which popular attractions are close to National Museum of Crime and Punishment?

Nearby attractions include Penn Quarter, Washington D.C. (2 min walk), Harman Center for the Arts, Washington D.C. (2 min walk), Shakespeare Theatre Company, Washington D.C. (2 min walk), Sidney Harman Hall, Washington D.C. (2 min walk).

How to get to National Museum of Crime and Punishment by public transport?

The nearest stations to National Museum of Crime and Punishment:

Metro

Gallery Place • Lines: Gr, Rd, Yl (4 min walk)
Archives • Lines: Gr, Yl (6 min walk)

Train

L'Enfant (20 min walk)
Russell (21 min walk)

Bus

Washington Deluxe Bus (21 min walk)
Peter Pan Bus (21 min walk)

Tram

Union Station • Lines: H Street/Benning Road Streetcar (25 min walk)
H Street & 3rd Street Northeast • Lines: H Street/Benning Road Streetcar (29 min walk)