Which state police cruisers actually stood out in 2025?
Every summer, state police agencies across the U.S. take a break from routine patrols to flex a little personality. The annual Best-Looking Cruiser contest is their chance to show off their flashiest rides, creative photography, and—let’s be honest—a bit of competitive spirit. While the official winner is still under wraps, the real fun comes from the unofficial awards: the moments where departments go all-in, phone it in, or just have a little fun with props and pets.
Who brought the most energy to their cruiser photo?
Some states treat this contest like the Super Bowl of squad cars. Kansas, for example, doesn’t have the dramatic mountains or rivers you’ll find out west. But what they do have is Prairie Thunder, a striking sculpture by Christian Stanley in Clay Center. Kansas officers parked a pair of Dodges in front of the artwork, turning a flat landscape into a bold, memorable scene. It’s proof that you don’t need epic geography to make a statement—just a little creativity and local pride.
Which department barely tried (and still got noticed)?
On the flip side, there’s always a department or two that seems to forget the contest is happening. This year, Pennsylvania took home the “Doing the Least” nod. Their entry? A Chevrolet Tahoe snapped on a dreary winter day, with nothing particularly Pennsylvanian about the setting. No iconic landmarks, no clever staging—just a cruiser in the snow. Maybe they were busy. Maybe they just didn’t care. Either way, sometimes showing up is half the battle.
Did any dogs steal the spotlight this year?
Absolutely. Departments know that putting a good dog in the frame is a surefire way to win hearts (and maybe a few votes). Ohio, North Dakota, and Colorado all featured canine companions, but Colorado’s entry took the cake. Not only did they have a photogenic pup, but they paired it with a Ford Mustang—doubling down on cool factor. It’s hard to argue with a classic car and a loyal dog in the same shot.
Which state nailed the backdrop game?
If you’re going for iconic, California showed everyone how it’s done. Their photo featured the Golden Gate Bridge, a sailboat, and the instantly recognizable CHP livery on a modern Charger. The composition was on point, blending natural beauty with state pride and a little bit of Hollywood flair. It’s the kind of image that makes you want to road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway.
Who missed the mark with their background?
Wyoming, surprisingly. With natural wonders like Yellowstone and the Tetons, expectations were sky-high. Instead, their submission featured a nondescript set of buildings—nothing that screamed “Wyoming” or showcased the state’s jaw-dropping scenery. It’s a head-scratcher, honestly. When you’ve got some of the most photographed landscapes in the country, why settle for less?
Was there a photo that looked fake but was actually real?
Nevada’s entry had everyone doing a double-take. At first glance, it looked like a Photoshop job: a Mustang, the Hoover Dam, and a herd of Bighorn sheep all in one frame. But according to photographer T. Nathan Grant, the car was actually there, painstakingly lit and shot in dozens of exposures to create the final image. The only digital addition? The sheep. The result? Pure magic—and a reminder that sometimes, the most impressive shots are the ones that blend technical skill with a bit of whimsy.
Which cruiser would you actually want to drive?
If you’re a car enthusiast, Florida’s Corvette cruiser is tough to beat. Sure, it’s probably more of a PR tool than a pursuit vehicle, but it looks the part. Set against a dramatic backdrop, the Corvette stands out as the kind of car that would make anyone do a double-take if it pulled up behind them. It’s a little bit Miami Vice, a little bit modern muscle.
Did any animals other than dogs make the cut?
Oklahoma’s entry proved that you don’t need a dog to win the “Best Animal” award. They put a massive bison front and center, capturing the wild spirit of the state. The bison even stares straight into the camera, stealing the show from the cruiser behind it. Honorable mention goes to Texas, whose horse cameo was almost as memorable.
What’s the real story behind these cruiser contests?
Beyond the competition, these photos reveal a lot about the departments themselves. Some go all-in with artistry and local pride. Others keep it simple, maybe even a little tongue-in-cheek. And a few just want to show off their four-legged partners. The big takeaway? Winning the best-looking cruiser contest isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.