If you’re visiting D.C. to do all the very “D.C. things,” you probably have the Capitol and Library of Congress on your itinerary. But what about the Supreme Court? It’s certainly far less visited than the other two, but it’s no less important. If you want to visit, but you’re not quite sure where to start, here is your quick, concise, complete guide to visiting the Supreme Court in Washington, D.C.!

Know Before You Go

As with a visit to any federal building in D.C., there are a few things to know, or at least be aware of, before you visit. Here are the essentials:

• The massive stairs out front are exit-only
• Entrance on north side (to the left as you’re looking at the front of the building)
• You will go through a metal detector upon entry
• No food or liquids, including water
• No bags larger than 18x14x8.5 inches
• Click here for a complete list of prohibited items
• The Court’s schedule may change visiting dates and hours; check the Court’s schedule up to 30 days in advance here (Home – Supreme Court of the United States)

Also helpful: Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Library of Congress

Hours, Location, and Admission

The Supreme Court is open to all, but because it is also an office building and the highest official court in the land, there are some limitations on hours and visits. In general, here are the details:

• Monday-Friday 9:00am-3:00pm; closed weekends and federal holidays
• Across the street to the left from the Capitol Visitor Center; to the left of the Library of Congress
• It is FREE to visit
• Hours and entry are determined by the Court’s schedule; please check this link before you go 

Essential info: How to Visit the United States Capitol

Ground Floor

This is the floor where you will enter and go through security. There are a few small, but worthwhile, exhibits here. Some highlights include women on the court, the U.S. President who served as Supreme Court Justice after the presidency (can you guess which one?), and more. There are no timed tickets for the exhibits, so take your time.

More here: The Best Things to Do On and Around Capitol Hill

First Floor

After perusing the exhibits, be sure to go up the stairs or take the elevator (you will find an actual elevator operator in there), and head up to the first floor. Here, you can stand in line for a courtroom lecture, or simply admire the historic architecture. When you’re finished, head out the large doors at the front and exit using the grand steps. 

P.S. Don’t overlook the massiveness of the columns out front on your way out!

Keep reading: Your Guide to the Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea at the St. Regis Hotel 

Courtroom Lectures

Visitors can sit in the courtroom and hear about the Supreme Court’s process most days. A docent will give a 25-minute talk, usually beginning at 10:30pm, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, and 2:30pm. Lecture schedules vary by day, and when court is in session, there are no lectures. Check the calendar at this link Courtroom Lectures. 

Read on: What to Do in D.C. on a Rainy Day

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