Chaitanya Katikala Network Advertising Initiative, 509 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004, US

Filled with hundreds of artifacts tied to criminology, the National Museum of Crime and Punishment in Washington, D.C. provides visitors with information on unforgettable mysteries, crime scene investigations and law enforcement practices. Five galleries delve into everything from the penal system to crime prevention, and 180 interactive exhibits give visitors an educational, hands-on perspective. The Crime Museum is also home to the filming studios for "America's Most Wanted."Best and worst time to go to National Museum of Crime and PunishmentAn influx of tourists arrive during late spring and throughout summer, so be prepared to brave the crowds. During the rest of the year, daytime excursions are your best bet.Must see/do at National Museum of Crime and PunishmentCrimes of Passion: It would be practically criminal to miss this annual Valentine's Day event, when couples are handcuffed together as they tour the premises and learn all about history's most scandalous crimes of passion. (Tickets: $80-$150)Fright at the Museum: During this event, the Crime Museum is transformed into the ultimate haunted house, complete with spooky sounds, dim lighting, loud noises and plenty of opportunities to be scared witless. (Tickets: $30)DC Walking Tour: The city's most notorious assassinations and attempted assassinations are featured during this 90-minute guided walking tour that begins at the Crime Museum and includes stops at the Navy Memorial, Blair House, FBI, Ford's Theatre, South Lawn of the White House and Lafayette Square. (Tickets: $18)Admission to National Museum of Crime and PunishmentGeneral admission fees range from about $15 (ages 5-11) to $22 (ages 12-59). Members of the military, police and senior citizens are eligible for a discount. General admission rates that include an Audio Tour, Top Detective Challenge or Forensic Lab are slightly higher. Check online for occasional discounts.Parking and public transportation to National Museum of Crime and PunishmentLimited two-hour metered parking is available, and several parking garages are located nearby. The Crime Museum is accessible via the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro Station on the Green, Red and Yellow Lines, about a two minute walk.Food at National Museum of Crime and PunishmentSome of the city's best eateries are steps away, including the upscale Carmine's and Rasika, plus a host of wallet-friendly options, like Gordon Biersch and District ChopHouse & Brewery. There are plenty of fast food options at every corner, too.Insider tip for visitors to National Museum of Crime and PunishmentPurchase tickets on the website to receive a small discount on admission for kids and adults.Author's bio: Tanya Sharma has lived in the Washington, DC area for over 30 years. Her work has been published on AOL, Yahoo and several lifestyle and entertainment publications.

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