By Visiting the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. is a pretty unique experience—especially if you’re into law, history, or politics. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan your visit, including whether you need reservations, what it’s worth seeing, and how you might sit in on decisions or oral arguments.
🇺🇸 U.S. Supreme Court Tour Guide
📍 Location
- Address: 1 First St NE, Washington, DC 20543
- Right next to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress.
🕰️ Hours & Reservations
- Open to the public Monday–Friday, 9 AM to 3 PM
- Closed on weekends and federal holidays
- No reservations required for general public entry!
- Admission is free
🏛️ What You Can Do There
✅ Self-Guided Tours
- You can walk through parts of the building, including:
- The Great Hall
- Exhibits and displays about landmark cases, Justices, and judicial robes
- Historical courtroom, if not in session
🎧 Lectures in the Courtroom
- On days when the Court isn’t hearing arguments, there are Courtroom Lectures every hour (usually 10 AM–3 PM).
- These are first-come, first-served — no sign-up needed.
⚖️ Attend an Oral Argument
- Oral arguments happen October through April
- Seating is limited, so:
- Arrive very early (like 6–7 AM or earlier on big decision days)
- No reservation system—it’s walk-in only
- Two lines: one for full seating, one for brief 3–5 minute viewing
- Big cases (e.g., related to rights, elections, etc.) draw long lines
📅 Want to Hear a Decision?
- Most major decisions are announced late spring/early summer (May–June)
- On those days, the public can enter the courtroom to hear opinions being read
- Again: arrive early, especially for headline-making cases
🎁 Bonus: Gift Shop & Exhibits
- There’s a small gift shop, and exhibits change throughout the year
- Great spot for Constitution nerds or civics teachers
🤔 Is it Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, yes—especially if:
- You’re interested in American law or government
- You’re in D.C. and want to see something less crowded than the Capitol
- You want to say you stood in the same room where some of the biggest decisions in U.S. history were made
🧠 Pro Tips
- No photography allowed in the actual courtroom
- Security screening is like airport-style, so give yourself time
- Bring an ID, just in case, but not always required
- They don’t allow big bags, food, or drinks
Want help finding a schedule of upcoming oral arguments or what decisions are expected this term?
Sure! Here’s a handy FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) for visiting the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C.
🇺🇸 U.S. Supreme Court Tour – Visitor FAQ
🔹 1. Is the Supreme Court open to the public?
Yes! The Supreme Court is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, except on federal holidays.
🔹 2. Do I need a reservation or ticket to visit?
Nope! No reservations or tickets are needed for general entry. It’s free and first-come, first-served.
🔹 3. What can I see during my visit?
- Great Hall
- Courtroom (when not in session)
- Courtroom Lectures
- Exhibit halls
- Gift shop
- Displays on past justices and landmark decisions
🔹 4. Can I attend a Court session or oral argument?
Yes, but seating is limited and first-come, first-served.
- Sessions are held October–April
- Arrive very early (6:00 AM or earlier) on big case days
- Two lines:
- One for full seating
- One for 3–5 minute brief viewing
🔹 5. Can I hear a decision being announced?
Yes! During decision days (typically May–June), the public can attend the courtroom to hear opinions read aloud.
🔹 6. Is photography allowed?
- ✅ Allowed in public areas
- ❌ Not allowed inside the courtroom
🔹 7. Is there a guided tour?
- No formal guided tours, but the Court offers free 30-minute lectures inside the courtroom when not in session.
- Lectures explain the Court’s role, history, and procedures.
🔹 8. What are the security requirements?
- Airport-style security screening
- No food, drinks, or large bags
- Small personal items are allowed
- Security staff are helpful and courteous
🔹 9. Is the building wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Court is ADA compliant with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
🔹 10. How long should I plan for a visit?
- Plan for 1–2 hours
- Longer if attending a lecture, oral argument, or just exploring all exhibits
🔹 11. Can school groups or large tours visit?
Yes, but they are self-guided
- Groups of 6+ are asked to notify the Visitor Services Office in advance
🔹 12. What’s the best time to visit?
- Mid-morning on weekdays is less crowded
- Avoid peak times like school field trip seasons (spring)
Want me to make a printable version of this FAQ or check upcoming argument dates for you?
