1946 Ford Police Car
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Delaware State Police Museum

4.9
·84 reviews·Dover, United States

Explore the history of the Delaware State Police with vintage cars, uniforms, and a real helicopter. Free admission!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
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1946 Ford Police Car

Delaware State Police Museum

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the history of the Delaware State Police with vintage cars, uniforms, and a real helicopter. Free admission!

4.9
(84 reviews)

"A great quick stop with lots of history and appreciation for what troopers do."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free! Donations are highly appreciated to support the museum's mission and exhibits. :heart:

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Easy to access with plenty of parking, making your visit hassle-free. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Police Cars

Vintage Police Cars

Main Exhibit Hall

See iconic patrol cars, including the last Crown Victoria in service, and learn about their history.

Historic Uniforms & Equipment

Historic Uniforms & Equipment

Exhibit Cases

Explore a fascinating collection of uniforms, firearms, and specialized equipment used by troopers.

Rare Warning Equipment Display

Rare Warning Equipment Display

Special Exhibit Area

Discover a unique collection of vintage lights and sirens from across the United States.

Interactive Helicopter Display

Interactive Helicopter Display

Outdoor/Main Hall

Get up close with a real state police helicopter and learn about its vital role.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Donations Welcome

The Delaware State Police Museum offers free admission, making it an accessible and budget-friendly stop. While entry is free, donations are gratefully accepted to support the museum's preservation efforts and exhibits. Consider contributing to help maintain this piece of Delaware history.

Kid-Friendly Exploration

This museum is a hit with younger visitors! Kids can explore vintage police cars, learn about different roles within the force, and even sit inside a police vehicle. Interactive elements and engaging displays ensure a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
School groups often leave
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Delaware State Police’s 100th Anniversary 1940’s themed 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe PPVs in front of Dover Motor Speedway in Dover, Delaware #delawarestatepolice #dsp #police #fyp #delaware #dovermotorspeedway #tahoe #backtheblue
@novapolicecars
1.2K likes • 34.7K views

🎯 Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free! Donations are highly appreciated to support the museum's mission and exhibits. :heart:

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Easy to access with plenty of parking, making your visit hassle-free. :car:

Delaware State Police Unit 7624 is a 2011 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor P7B. This was the last Crown Victoria in service and was donated to the museum. Recorded on April 22, 2025 at the Delaware State Police Museum in Dover, Delaware.
route141response
106 likes • 3K views
2025 Police Week is a wrap and we want to thank the thousands of students who spent time with us this week. The open-house event provided students an opportunity to learn about a law enforcement career, tour the police museum and participate in demonstrations. Throughout all four days, Crime Scene, Emergency Service Section, Highway Patrol and Marine Bureau had displays for students to tour. S...
scpdhq
635 likes • 17.8K views

🧒 Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love sitting in the police cars and learning about the troopers' roles. :child:

🕰️ Quick & Informative Visit

A great stop for a quick history lesson, perfect for a day trip. :stopwatch:

Our Homeschool Co-Op field trip at the Delaware State Police Museum was one that had the kiddos jumping with excitement (watch until the end to see what I mean 🤣) as we met Trooper Dan, learned about the rich history of the department & all the amazing roles they offer! T’s favorite part was sitting in the police car & learning that there is a scuba trooper team 🤿👮🏼‍♀️👮🏻🚓 We’re so thankful to the...
thesaplingsmama
13 likes • 214 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free! Donations are highly appreciated to support the museum's mission and exhibits. :heart:

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Easy to access with plenty of parking, making your visit hassle-free. :car:

🧒 Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love sitting in the police cars and learning about the troopers' roles. :child:

🕰️ Quick & Informative Visit

A great stop for a quick history lesson, perfect for a day trip. :stopwatch:

🎁 Small Gift Shop

Grab a souvenir to remember your visit to the Delaware State Police Museum. :gift:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(84 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Delaware State Police Museum for its free admission and engaging exhibits, highlighting the friendly and informative staff. It's described as a neat, well-laid-out museum offering a great sense of appreciation for the troopers' work, with particular enjoyment from seeing vintage cars and equipment. Some note it's a pleasant, quick stop for families and history enthusiasts alike.

"What a great experience! It's free and donations accepted. Our tour guide (I'm sorry I can't remember her name) was so friendly and informative. It's a pleasant small walk through the building with lots of history of the state police. Cars, uniforms, weapons, tech, lights, sirens, some stuff for kids to check out (inside one of the cars, coloring things, etc.) It was a great quick stop on our way through!"

Melinda Wheeler

"It’s a nice small free museum! It’s cool and interesting kids would like it as well. Gives more of a sense of appreciation for what these troopers do for the state every day. It’s really cool to see the old cop cars and crown Vic’s . Would come again"

Big web 45

"A very neat museum. Worth the time if you get a chance."

chase stewart

What People Like

Free admission
Informative displays
Vintage police cars

What People Dislike

Small size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Dover, Delaware, and is easily accessible by car. It offers ample parking for visitors. Reddit

Information on public transportation options to the museum is limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the museum. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Delaware State Police Museum website or contact them directly before your visit to confirm current hours. Reddit

The museum is generally well-laid out and organized, making it accessible for most visitors. Specific accessibility details can be confirmed by contacting the museum directly. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions or ask museum staff if you're unsure. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Delaware State Police Museum is free! Donations are gratefully accepted to help support the museum's operations and exhibits. Reddit

No, advance booking is typically not required as admission is free. However, for group visits or special events, it's advisable to contact the museum beforehand. Reddit

The museum sometimes hosts special events, such as Police Week open houses, which offer opportunities to learn about law enforcement careers and see demonstrations. Instagram

Yes, there is a small gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs to remember your visit. Reddit

Absolutely! Donations are a vital part of supporting the museum's mission and preserving the history of the Delaware State Police. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a rich display of Delaware State Police history, including vintage patrol cars, uniforms, firearms, equipment, and a real helicopter. TikTokReddit

Yes, the museum is very kid-friendly! Children can sit in police cars, learn about trooper roles, and enjoy interactive elements. InstagramReddit

A visit to the Delaware State Police Museum is usually a quick and informative experience, often taking about an hour or so, depending on your interest level. Reddit

While not always formally scheduled, friendly and informative staff or volunteers may be available to share insights and answer questions, enhancing your visit. Reddit

Many visitors are particularly impressed by the collection of vintage police cars and the rare warning equipment display. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, personal photography is allowed inside the museum. It's always a good practice to confirm with staff if you're unsure about specific exhibits. TikTok

While personal photos are usually fine, professional photography or filming may require prior permission. Check with museum staff for details. TikTok

The vintage police cars, the helicopter, and the historical uniforms and equipment make for great photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Yes, kids often love sitting in the police cars, and taking photos is a popular way to capture their excitement. Instagram

It's best to avoid using flash photography, especially near delicate exhibits, unless explicitly permitted by museum staff. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Delaware State Police Museum is a perfect outing for families. Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly option. Kids will be thrilled to sit in vintage police cars and learn about the different jobs troopers do. Instagram The museum offers a fun and educational experience that sparks curiosity about law enforcement and community service. Reddit

Key recommendations for families:
* Allow ample time for kids to explore the vehicles. Instagram
* Look for any interactive stations or coloring activities. Instagram
* Consider a donation to support this community resource. Reddit

🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trip Stops

If you're passing through Dover, Delaware, the State Police Museum makes for an excellent and quick stop. It's easily accessible with ample parking and offers a fascinating glimpse into local history without requiring a significant time commitment. Reddit The free admission is a huge plus for travelers looking to maximize their budget. Reddit

Tips for day-trippers:
* It’s a great way to break up a longer drive. Reddit
* The museum provides a unique historical perspective on Delaware. Reddit
* Combine it with other nearby Dover attractions for a fuller day.

🏛️ History Buffs & Local Enthusiasts

For those interested in the history of law enforcement in Delaware, this museum is a must-visit. It meticulously chronicles the evolution of the Delaware State Police through displays of uniforms, equipment, and vehicles. Reddit You'll find rare warning equipment and learn about the agency's significant contributions to public safety over the decades. Reddit

Highlights for history buffs:
* The collection of vintage patrol cars, including the last Crown Victoria. Instagram
* The extensive display of historical uniforms and specialized gear. Reddit
* The unique array of vintage warning lights and sirens from across the US. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Century of Service: The History of the Delaware State Police

The Delaware State Police (DSP) have a rich history dating back to their founding in 1921. This museum serves as a testament to their dedication and evolution over the past century. From early patrol methods to modern policing techniques, the exhibits showcase the agency's commitment to serving and protecting the citizens of Delaware. You can trace their journey through displays of vintage vehicles, uniforms, and equipment that reflect the changing times and technological advancements in law enforcement. Reddit

Visitors often express a newfound appreciation for the troopers' work after exploring the museum. The well-organized displays provide an educational insight into the mission, history, and significant impact of the DSP. It’s a place that fosters respect and understanding for the vital role these officers play in the community every day. Reddit

Beyond the historical artifacts, the museum also highlights the diverse roles within the State Police, from highway patrol to specialized units. This comprehensive look offers a deeper understanding of the complexities and dedication involved in maintaining public safety in Delaware. Instagram

Interactive Fun for Young Explorers

The Delaware State Police Museum is a fantastic destination for families, with numerous elements designed to engage younger visitors. A major draw for kids is the opportunity to sit inside actual police cars, including historical models. This hands-on experience allows them to imagine themselves as officers and understand the practical aspects of patrol work. Instagram

Beyond the vehicles, the museum offers coloring activities and other engaging displays that make learning about law enforcement fun and accessible. The interactive nature of these exhibits ensures that children remain captivated and learn valuable lessons about community safety and the roles of police officers in a positive and memorable way. InstagramReddit

Parents often note the museum's ability to spark curiosity and provide a sense of appreciation for the troopers' service in their children. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the concept of public service and the importance of law enforcement in a non-intimidating and enjoyable environment. Instagram

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