DEA Museum & Visitors Center, Arlington (must see)

The DEA Museum explores the history of drug use, misuse, public policy, and federal drug law enforcement in the United States. Its origins date to 1976, when DEA employees began collecting badges and other objects connected with earlier narcotics agencies. The museum’s first major exhibition, Illegal Drugs in America: A Modern History, opened in 1999.

The facility was redesigned and reopened with new exhibitions in 2021, presenting updated displays that combine historical artifacts with interactive educational experiences for visitors of different ages. The museum presents more than 180 artifacts and over 40 interactive activity stations. Exhibits examine the history and science of controlled substances, the development of federal drug laws, and the work of the DEA since its establishment in 1973. Visitors can examine fingerprints, participate in simulated investigative activities, and view objects connected with undercover operations, smuggling methods, drug identification, and law enforcement history. The wider collection contains more than 5,000 objects and 40,000 photographs, including historic medicine bottles, badges, credentials, disguises, seized vehicles, and concealed containers. A changing exhibition gallery allows additional topics and temporary displays to be presented throughout the year. The redesigned Wall of Honor commemorates DEA employees who died in the line of duty. Educational offerings include group tours, artifact talks, film screenings, guest interviews, scouting activities, children's programs, and online exhibitions. Public events vary according to the museum's schedule, while research visits require advance arrangements.

The museum is generally open Tuesday through Saturday, admission is free, and adult visitors must present government-issued photo identification to enter. It provides an informative introduction to the history of federal drug enforcement and public education in the United States.