Alcatraz East Crime Museum Celebrates Police Week
In May 2026, the Alcatraz East Crime Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is gearing up for an exciting series of events to honor law enforcement officers across the nation. The museum will spotlight the tireless dedication of these professionals during National Police Week, which takes place from May 10-16 this year.
During this special week, the museum will offer free admission to all law enforcement personnel, providing them a chance to explore over 100 exhibits that showcase the history of American crime and justice. The goal is to recognize the important work that these officers do to keep communities safe and to honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Rhiannon Smith, the museum's sales and marketing manager, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming events, stating, "We have a full lineup planned for May, and we want to show our support and appreciation for those in law enforcement. Their work is essential to our mission of educating the public about crime."
The roots of National Police Week date back to 1962 when then-President John F. Kennedy established this observance to recognize the efforts of law enforcement professionals. It also includes National Peace Officers' Memorial Day on May 15th, which honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
As part of the celebrations, the Alcatraz East Crime Museum will introduce new artifacts to their Crime Fighting Gallery, highlighting K-9 Aggie, a beloved police dog from Collierville, Tennessee. This display will feature meaningful items, including Aggie’s collar and favorite tennis ball, paying tribute to her contributions in the field.
Another major highlight of the week will be a K-9 meet-and-greet event, scheduled for Friday, May 15, from 10 AM to 2 PM. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to meet K-9 officers such as Merry and Diesel from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and Juno from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. These highly trained canines specialize in accelerant detection and will interact with guests sharing insights into their crucial roles in law enforcement.
In addition to honoring police officers, the Alcatraz East Crime Museum will also be offering discounts to college students and teachers throughout May. College students can gain entry for just $15 when they present a valid student ID. Educators and school staff are invited to enjoy free admission by registering online and presenting the appropriate identification.
The unique offerings of the museum include a vast collection of exhibits featuring fascinating artifacts from notorious criminals, such as Al Capone's rosary, dental molds from Ted Bundy, and Charles Manson's guitar. Each exhibit is designed to provide an engaging, educational experience, ensuring that guests leave with new knowledge about crime and the justice system.
Visitors can explore the museum daily, with the last tickets sold an hour before closing time. The museum also offers special arrangements and discounts for school groups and parties, encouraging the community to learn more about the complexities of crime and law enforcement in an interactive setting.
The Alcatraz East Crime Museum showcases the dedication of those in law enforcement while enriching visitors with knowledge about the past and present of crime and justice in America. For more details on ticket pricing, special events, and exhibits, be sure to visit their website at
www.alcatrazeast.com for further information.
In conclusion, the Alcatraz East Crime Museum is not just a journey through crime history but also a celebration of those who work tirelessly to maintain safety and justice in our communities. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of these special events this May and show your appreciation for our law enforcement heroes.