The Sheriff’s Museum in Old Town San Diego is an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages! The museum covers the entire history of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department from its inception in 1850 through today.

The recently renovated museum contains cars, motorcycles, real-life jail cells from various eras, and replica Sheriff’s offices from the 1850’s, 1940’s and present. Children can sit on a real-life motorcycle and use the siren, pick up a bullet-proof vest, play with handcuffs, and sit in a real Sheriff’s car!

Adults will appreciate the rich history of the department reflected throughout the Museum. Ask the docent to take a picture of your entire family — locked in a jail cell! The two-story building also has a lovely gift shop to take home souvenirs such as cowboy handcuffs, replica prison guard badges and collectible sheriff’s cars.

General admission is $5. Kids get in free when accompanied by an adult. Open at 11 a.m.. Wednesday through Sunday (last entry 4:30 p.m.) Call (619) 260-1850 or visit the museum online.