San Diego Police Museum

About San Diego Police Museum

The San Diego Police Museum preserves and displays the history of San Diego law enforcement through exhibits and artifacts. Visitors explore historical photographs, police equipment, booking cards, and documents spanning decades of the department's operations. The museum features materials from early police academy classes, including a 1972-77 Police Academy photograph, and historical images dating to 1914 and 1939, such as a photograph of the original headquarters target range. The collection includes badge plaques and commemorative items recognizing officers' careers. The museum also maintains cold case materials and other investigative records. Run by the San Diego Police Historical Association, a nonprofit organization of police officers and concerned citizens, the museum operates independently without taxpayer support. The attraction suits visitors interested in local law enforcement history and the evolution of policing in San Diego, California. A visit involves examining archival photographs, historical records, and police memorabilia documenting the department from its founding through modern times.