Exhibitions meander across three centuries, displaying weapons, vehicles, vintage communication equipment, uniforms, and artifacts dating to Colonial times when Watchmen patrolled the cobblestone streets of New Amsterdam. A popular section for children is the open prison cell and the mug-shot lineup. There’s a special section dedicated to the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center and to how the department works to ensure the safety of citizens today.
Favorite feature: The display of Bertillon cards used for criminal identification before fingerprinting was adopted. In use from 1897-1902, the cards display traditional mug shots while the reverse records measurements, identifying scars, and occupation. Favorite crimes: disorderly house, horse and wagon thief, and dishonest servant.
100 Old Slip, 212-480-3100, nycpolicemuseum.org. Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-5. Adults $7, seniors, students, children over age 6 $5, 6 and under free.
