Supreme Court of the United States
The imposing 'Marble Palace' housing America's highest court, offering free access to exhibits and courtroom lectures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better seating
Supreme Court of the United States
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better seating

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The imposing 'Marble Palace' housing America's highest court, offering free access to exhibits and courtroom lectures.
"A place where politics takes a back seat, and you can truly sense the profound weight of justice."
Arrive Early for Big Cases
Lines for major Supreme Court cases can form very early. Be prepared for a wait to secure a seat . :clock1:
No Liquids Allowed
You'll need to finish any bottled water or drinks before entering the building. :noentrysign:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Hallways
Main public areas
Expansive marble hallways exuding grandeur and historical significance.

Courtroom Lectures
Courtroom
Gain deep insights into the US legal system with informative talks inside the actual courtroom.

Exhibits and Displays
Public areas
Captivating displays and exhibitions detailing the court's history and justices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Supreme Court
Navigating the Supreme Court Building
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Big Cases
Lines for major Supreme Court cases can form very early. Be prepared for a wait to secure a seat.
:clock1:No Liquids Allowed
You'll need to finish any bottled water or drinks before entering the building. :noentrysign:
Photography Restrictions
Photography is not permitted inside the courtroom during lectures or sessions. :camerawithflash:
Free Admission
Entry to the public areas of the Supreme Court is completely free. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Big Cases
Lines for major Supreme Court cases can form very early. Be prepared for a wait to secure a seat.
:clock1:No Liquids Allowed
You'll need to finish any bottled water or drinks before entering the building. :noentrysign:
Photography Restrictions
Photography is not permitted inside the courtroom during lectures or sessions. :camerawithflash:
Free Admission
Entry to the public areas of the Supreme Court is completely free. :moneywithwings:
Check Lecture Schedule
Verify the schedule for informative lectures in the courtroom for a deeper understanding. :memo:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Supreme Court building for its impressive architecture and the educational value of its exhibits and lectures. Many find it a surprisingly captivating experience that offers deep insights into the American legal system. While some note the strict rules regarding liquids and photography, the free admission and the opportunity to learn about the court's history are highly appreciated.
"Impressive!
Exploring the public areas of the Supreme Court is an awe-inspiring experience, with its expansive marble hallways that exude grandeur. Inside, you'll find numerous captivating displays and exhibitions, as well as an informative film about the court. There's also a dedicated section honoring the first female Chief Justice.
For a deeper understanding of the American legal system, you have the option to book a half-hour talk inside the actual courtroom (please note that photography isn't allowed). This experience was incredibly interesting and greatly contributed to our comprehension of the legal system in the United States.
During my vacation, visited most of the favorite landmarks and buildings in DC, and the Supreme Court pleasantly surprised me. It's a place where politics takes a back seat, and you can truly sense the profound weight of justice being administered. Given that not everyone is familiar with the Court's history, the informative yet understated displays provide valuable insights."
Nixon Caparas
"Another impressive place to learn about our Supreme Court and justice. While there are no tours, they offer impressive wealth of information and court lecture."
Stevie Mulia
"Free admission. No. Liquid is allowed. I had a bottled water that I just purchase 5 minutes ago, but I had to drink all.
Small museum focusing on each judge’s achievement, and little bit of history."
Mama B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Supreme Court is located in Washington D.C. and is accessible via public transportation. The nearest Metro stations are Capitol South and Federal Center SW. Many visitors also choose to walk from nearby landmarks. Parking in the area can be challenging and expensive, so public transit is often recommended for visiting the Supreme Court building USA.
While there is no dedicated visitor parking at the Supreme Court, there are several paid parking garages in the vicinity. However, these can be costly, and street parking is very limited. It's advisable to use the DC Metro or rideshare services when planning your visit to the US Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court building is typically open to the public from 9 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays but is closed on weekends. Always check the official US Supreme Court website for the most current hours of operation before your visit.
From downtown D.C., you can take the Metro to the Capitol South or Federal Center SW stations, both of which are a short walk from the Supreme Court. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service will provide a direct route to the Supreme Court of the United States Washington DC.
Yes, the Supreme Court building is generally accessible for individuals with disabilities. Ramps and elevators are available to navigate the public areas. For specific accessibility needs, it's best to contact the court in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the public areas of the Supreme Court of the United States is free. You do not need to purchase tickets to enter and explore the building's public spaces.
The Supreme Court building is generally open to the public from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays. It is closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. It's always a good idea to confirm hours on the official US Supreme Court website before your visit.
Yes, you can attend Supreme Court hearings, but seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. For highly anticipated cases, lines can form very early in the morning, sometimes even the day before.
Check the Supreme Court docket for upcoming cases.Prohibited items include liquids (water bottles, etc.), food, large bags, and any recording devices. You will be asked to consume or discard any liquids before entering. Security is present, similar to other government buildings in Washington DC.
A self-guided visit to the public areas, including exhibits and the cafeteria, can take about 1-2 hours. If you attend a courtroom lecture, add an additional 30 minutes. Visiting for a hearing will depend on the length of the proceedings.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can explore the grand marble hallways, view informative exhibits on the court's history and justices, watch a film about the court's role, and attend lectures in the courtroom. There's also a cafeteria and a gift shop.
Formal guided tours are not offered. However, staff members provide informative lectures inside the courtroom that offer a deep dive into the court's functions and history. These lectures are a great way to learn about the Supreme Court of the United States.
Photography is generally not permitted inside the courtroom during lectures or when the court is in session. In other public areas, check signage for specific restrictions, but it's usually allowed in hallways and exhibit spaces. Always be respectful of the rules of the Supreme Court building USA.
The 'Marble Palace' is a nickname for the Supreme Court building due to its extensive use of marble in its architecture. It's a striking building that reflects the gravitas of the judicial branch of the United States government.
The Supreme Court building features exhibits dedicated to the history of the court and its justices, including profiles of associate justices and chief justices. You can learn about the current Supreme Court justices of the United States and their predecessors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafeteria located in the basement of the Supreme Court building. It offers a convenient place to grab a bite to eat while visiting. It's a good option for a quick lunch before or after exploring the public areas.
The cafeteria typically offers standard fare such as sandwiches, salads, hot entrees, and beverages. It's a casual dining option for visitors and staff. Prices are generally reasonable for a government building in Washington DC.
Yes, the area surrounding the Supreme Court in Washington D.C. has numerous dining options, ranging from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. You can find various cuisines within walking distance, especially along Pennsylvania Avenue and in the nearby Capitol Hill neighborhood.
No, outside food and drinks (except for water that you must consume before entry) are generally not allowed inside the Supreme Court building. It's best to plan to eat at the cafeteria or at a nearby restaurant.
The cafeteria's hours usually align with the building's public visiting hours, typically closing around 3:30 PM. It's advisable to check the specific hours on the day of your visit, as they can sometimes vary.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the public hallways and exhibit areas of the Supreme Court. However, it is strictly prohibited inside the courtroom during lectures or when the court is in session.
Always look for signage indicating photo restrictions.The grand marble hallways, the exterior of the building with its imposing columns, and the Great Hall are popular spots for photography. Capturing the architectural details can result in stunning images of the Supreme Court building USA.
While general photography might be allowed in public areas, using flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited to protect exhibits and avoid disturbing other visitors. It's best to err on the side of caution and avoid flash unless explicitly permitted.
You will not have the opportunity to photograph Supreme Court justices during a public visit, as they are typically only seen during official proceedings or in controlled environments. Focus on capturing the building's architecture and historical displays.
A standard digital camera or smartphone is perfectly adequate for capturing the architecture and exhibits. For interior shots, a camera with good low-light performance can be beneficial, especially in the grand hallways. Tripods are usually not allowed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Law Enthusiasts
🚶 Day-Trippers in D.C.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Supreme Court's Role
Visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for this role by attending the informative lectures held in the courtroom. These sessions explain the process of how cases are heard and decided, offering a glimpse into the workings of the SCOTUS USA. Understanding the Supreme Court of the United States decisions and their impact is key to grasping the court's significance. The building itself, often referred to as the 'Marble Palace,' stands as a symbol of justice and the rule of law.
Visiting the Supreme Court Building
While formal guided tours are not provided, the public can explore these areas and attend lectures in the actual courtroom. These lectures, typically lasting about 30 minutes, offer a comprehensive overview of the court's functions and historical context. It's a unique opportunity to sit in the space where landmark United States Supreme Court cases have been argued and decided. Remember that photography is restricted in the courtroom during these sessions.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit