Old Courthouse — Attraction in St. Louis

I visited the Old Courthouse at 11 N 4th St, St. Louis, MO today, May 25, 2025, and it’s a beautiful piece of history! The Greek Revival architecture and iconic cast-iron dome, finished in 1862, are stunning, especially in the rotunda with its vibrant frescoes. The first-floor exhibits, reopened after a $27.5 million renovation, are engaging—particularly the Dred and Harriet Scott gallery, which dives into their 1847 freedom suit with compelling artifacts and panels. Another exhibit, “Pathways to Freedom,” highlights Black life in St. Louis, and the restored courtroom display feels like stepping into the 1850s.

The staff was welcoming, sharing insights about the courthouse’s role in landmark cases like the Scott trials and Virginia Minor’s suffrage case. It’s free, which is great, and the location near the Gateway Arch makes it an easy combo visit. The new elevator and UV-protected windows add accessibility and light, enhancing the experience. My only disappointment was that the third and fourth floors remain closed post-renovation, so you can’t explore the upper levels, which I heard have unique historic elements. Parking downtown was also a bit of a pain—try the stadium garages nearby. Still, a must-visit for history lovers, just wish the upper floors...

The Old Courthouse in St. Louis is a hidden gem that holds deep historical significance and stunning architecture. Located near the Gateway Arch, this beautifully preserved building offers a glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for history lovers.

One of the most notable aspects of the courthouse is its connection to the Dred Scott case, one of the most pivotal legal battles in American history. Walking through the halls where this historic case unfolded gives you a profound sense of the struggles and progress of civil rights in the U.S.

The architecture is equally impressive, with its grand dome, intricate detailing, and elegant staircases that transport you back in time. The restored courtrooms and exhibits provide fascinating insights into 19th-century law and life. The museum inside showcases artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring history to life.

Located within Gateway Arch National Park, the courthouse is free to visit and offers a quiet, reflective space away from the bustling city. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or just want to explore a piece of St. Louis' past, the Old Courthouse is well...

At least during Summer 2017, the Old Courthouse served as the gateway to the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial and the Gateway Arch. Clearly, the National Park Service is hard at work renovating the area for tourists. The construction makes it a bit tight in some places, so that may make some hallways inaccessible, but they're doing their best indoors. I'm sure it will be a five-star establishment when finished. For now, spend some time in the rotunda examining the gorgeous construction and display of American flags. Outside, the grounds and surrounding trails are clean and well-marked. We parked on one of the side streets in the pedestrian mall opposite the Old Courthouse and had plenty of time to explore during our...