The Vancouver Police Museum at 240 East Cordova Street, on the edge of the Downtown Eastside in Vancouver, British Columbia, occupies the former Coroner's Court and city morgue, completed in 1932 in a restrained Art Deco and Moderne style. The building retains its original autopsy suite, morgue and courtroom, which give the museum an unusually authentic atmosphere. Exhibits trace the history of policing in Vancouver from the 1880s, the development of forensic science, and notable local crimes. Collections include confiscated weapons, counterfeit currency, drug paraphernalia, uniforms, equipment and artefacts from historical cases, along with material from the Prohibition era and early vice enforcement. The curatorial approach is thematic and investigative, presenting cases as stories that explain how the city changed. The museum also runs evening programs and a walking tour of the surrounding neighbourhood that examine crime, poverty and law enforcement in the Downtown Eastside. The building has been adapted for museum use while keeping its core fabric, including the autopsy room. Some exhibits deal with death and violent crime, so they are not suited to young children, and the museum states content advisories. A visit generally takes 60 to 90 minutes, admission is about CAD $15 for adults, and the museum is a short walk from Gastown and Chinatown.
| Admission | About CAD $15 adult (approx US$10) |
|---|---|
| Address | 240 E Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1L3 |
Location
240 E Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1L3
Highlights
- Original 1932 autopsy suite and morgue
- Former Coroner's Court in Art Deco style
- Confiscated weapons and counterfeit currency
- Exhibits on early forensic science
- Evening programs and neighbourhood walking tours
Tips for visiting
- Plan 60 to 90 minutes and start with the morgue and autopsy room.
- Consider evening or themed programs for more in-depth stories.
- Check content advisories first; some displays are graphic.
- Confirm opening hours online, as they change by season.
- Combine with Gastown and Chinatown, both nearby.
Accessibility
Accessibility in the 1932 building may be limited in some areas; visitors who use a wheelchair or have mobility needs should contact the museum in advance to confirm access.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors need about 60 to 90 minutes.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Some displays involve death and forensic subjects, so parental discretion is advised for younger children.
Is the museum English-language friendly?
Yes. Exhibition text and tours are in English.