Old Courthouse Gateway Arch NP
Historic courthouse where Dred Scott sued for freedom, now a free museum showcasing civil rights history and stunning architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Old Courthouse Gateway Arch NP
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic courthouse where Dred Scott sued for freedom, now a free museum showcasing civil rights history and stunning architecture.
"A beautiful piece of St. Louis history. A must see."
Free Entry! 🎉
Admission is completely free, making it a budget-friendly historical gem.
Elevator Access Available
An elevator on the first floor provides easy access to the second level courtrooms. :elevator:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dred and Harriet Scott Courtroom
First Floor
Step back in time to where Dred and Harriet Scott sued for their freedom. A pivotal moment in American civil rights history.
Greek Revival Architecture
Rotunda and Courtrooms
Admire the stunning Greek Revival architecture, including the iconic cast-iron dome and vibrant frescoes in the rotunda.
Pathways to Freedom Exhibit
First Floor
Explore exhibits detailing Black life in St. Louis and the broader struggle for civil rights in the United States.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big History
Combine with the Arch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry! 🎉
Admission is completely free, making it a budget-friendly historical gem.
Elevator Access Available
An elevator on the first floor provides easy access to the second level courtrooms. :elevator:
Combine with Arch Visit
It's just a short walk from the Gateway Arch, perfect for a history-rich combo.
Check Exhibit Status
Some upper floors may still be closed post-renovation. Inquire onsite for details.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry! 🎉
Admission is completely free, making it a budget-friendly historical gem.
Elevator Access Available
An elevator on the first floor provides easy access to the second level courtrooms. :elevator:
Combine with Arch Visit
It's just a short walk from the Gateway Arch, perfect for a history-rich combo.
Check Exhibit Status
Some upper floors may still be closed post-renovation. Inquire onsite for details.
Street Parking Challenges
Metered street parking can be tricky; consider nearby paid garages. :parking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Courthouse as a beautifully restored historical gem offering free admission and profound insights into American civil rights history, particularly the Dred Scott case. The stunning architecture and engaging exhibits are highlights, though some lament the closure of upper floors and find downtown parking challenging.
"Despite my charm and witty personality, I’m actually an intelligent young man (definitely in denial) and love American History. This is a beautiful piece of history that survived (one of two structures) the St. Louis Fire of 1849. An absolutely breathtaking Courthouse that should be seen by everyone who stops at St. Louis! Make sure to head up to the second level (there’s an elevator on the first floor if you don’t want to bother with the stairs) and checkout the courtrooms!!! 🙏"
J Mykal
"A beautiful piece of St. Louis history. A must see. We visited on June 28th around 2:30p; our tour guide did an excellent job giving us the history of the courthouse and it's architecture and gave us a historical overview of the complex Dres Scott case. Didnt fet his name, but he did an excellent job. My only suggestion is that he should have a little mic to help us hear him more clearly."
Nichole Avery
"This is one of the oldest buildings in St. Louis, Missouri. This is where the famous Dred Scott and Virginia Minor cases started. It's two blocks from the Gateway Arch and part of the Gateway Arch National Park. It recently reopened after extensive renovations. Here you can see the architecture of the building, learn about the American judicial process, criminal vs civil cases, the Dred Scott and Virginia Minor cases, learn about civil rights struggles in the United States, view two courtrooms, the beautiful staircases and, yes, it's mostly handicapped accessible. There is no admission fee here.
Metered parking on the street or in for- a -fee parking garages nearby.
There is a gift shop on site."
Daffodil Mama
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Courthouse is located at 11 N 4th St, St. Louis, MO, just two blocks from the Gateway Arch. You can reach it by car, with metered street parking or nearby paid garages. Public transportation options also serve the downtown area.
While there is metered street parking, it can be limited. Many visitors opt for nearby paid parking garages, especially if combining their visit with the Gateway Arch.
Absolutely! The Old Courthouse is a very short and easy walk from the Gateway Arch, making it a convenient pairing for your visit.
Downtown St. Louis is accessible by various modes of transport. If driving, be prepared for city parking. Public transit, including buses and light rail, can also be a good option.
Yes, the Old Courthouse has undergone renovations and is largely handicapped accessible, including an elevator to the second floor.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Old Courthouse is completely free! This makes it an excellent historical site to visit without any cost.
The Old Courthouse is part of the Gateway Arch National Park and generally follows its operating hours. It's always best to check the official National Park Service website for the most current hours before your visit.
While the Old Courthouse itself is free to enter, there is a fee to ride to the top of the Gateway Arch. The museum exhibits at the Arch are also free.
While there aren't always formal 'tours' in the traditional sense, the exhibits and restored courtrooms provide a rich historical experience. Rangers may offer informal talks or insights.
There are no age restrictions for visiting the Old Courthouse. It's a family-friendly historical site suitable for all ages.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on Black life in St. Louis, the Dred and Harriet Scott case, and civil rights struggles. You'll also see restored courtrooms and admire the building's architecture.
Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours at the Old Courthouse to fully appreciate the exhibits and historical significance.
Yes, restrooms are available within the Old Courthouse. There is also a gift shop on site for souvenirs.
Photography is generally allowed inside the Old Courthouse for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions in certain exhibit areas.
It's most famous as the site where Dred and Harriet Scott sued for their freedom, a landmark case in the fight against slavery. It also played a role in the Virginia Minor suffrage case.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Old Courthouse itself does not have a restaurant or cafe. However, there is a gift shop.
Numerous dining options are available in the downtown St. Louis area, within walking distance of the Old Courthouse and Gateway Arch. You'll find everything from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants.
Yes, downtown St. Louis offers a variety of casual dining spots, delis, and fast-food restaurants that cater to budget-conscious travelers.
While there are no specific prohibitions mentioned, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks before entering the historical exhibits to maintain the integrity of the space.
Downtown St. Louis boasts a diverse culinary scene, including classic American fare, BBQ, Italian, and international options.
📸 📸 Photography
The rotunda with its dome and frescoes, the restored courtrooms, and the exterior architecture are all excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the Old Courthouse. Be mindful of any posted signs regarding specific exhibit areas.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the exterior architecture. Inside, the lighting is generally good, but consider visiting during less crowded times for unobstructed shots.
While personal photography is usually allowed, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check with park staff if you have specific needs.
Many find the view of the Old Courthouse with the Gateway Arch in the background to be particularly iconic, showcasing two significant St. Louis landmarks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for the "Pathways to Freedom" exhibit which provides a broader look at Black history in St. Louis. While the building itself is architecturally interesting, focus on the stories and interactive elements to keep children engaged. Remember to check for any temporary exhibit closures that might affect the full experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pairing your visit with the free museum at the Gateway Arch makes for an entire day of free exploration. Be mindful of parking costs, as street parking can be scarce and garages add up. Consider public transport or walking if you're staying nearby.
📚 History Buffs
Don't miss the "Pathways to Freedom" exhibit for a broader understanding of Black history in St. Louis. The building's impressive Greek Revival architecture also adds to its historical appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dred and Harriet Scott Case
The exhibits at the Old Courthouse meticulously detail their struggle, featuring compelling artifacts and informative panels that bring this crucial chapter of American history to life. Understanding this case provides profound context for the ongoing fight for civil rights in the United States.
Visiting the restored courtroom where their initial case was heard offers a powerful, tangible connection to this pivotal moment. It’s a stark reminder of the injustices faced and the courage it took to seek freedom and equality.
Architectural Grandeur
Its most striking feature is the iconic cast-iron dome, which crowns the rotunda. Inside, visitors are greeted by vibrant frescoes that add a splash of color and artistry to the grand space. The meticulously restored courtrooms, with their period furnishings and architectural details, transport visitors back to the 19th century.
Recent renovations have further enhanced the building's beauty and accessibility, ensuring that its architectural splendor can be appreciated by all. The attention to detail in preserving its historical character makes it a visual treat for anyone interested in architecture or historical preservation.
Beyond the Dred Scott Case
The "Pathways to Freedom" exhibit delves into the broader context of Black life in St. Louis during this era, highlighting the challenges and resilience of the African American community. It provides a more comprehensive understanding of the social and legal landscape of the time, extending beyond individual landmark cases.
Exploring these diverse exhibits offers a richer perspective on the courthouse's role in shaping American legal and civil rights history. It underscores the building's importance as a site where fundamental questions about justice, equality, and citizenship were debated and decided.
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