Supreme Court of the United States ⚖️
Hey there, history and law enthusiasts! Visiting the Supreme Court of the United States is a must if you’re in D.C. Ready to stand where landmark decisions have been made and soak in the grandeur of the highest court in the land? Here’s your ultimate guide packed with insider tips, hidden gems, and everything you need to know to make your visit memorable!
(1) Google Maps Link:
(2) Nearest Subway Station: 🚇
The closest Metro stop is Capitol South (Blue, Orange, Silver lines). From there, it’s about a 7-minute walk to the Supreme Court. You can also use Union Station (Red line), which is about a 10-minute walk.
(3) Good Places to Eat, Drink, or Grab Coffee Nearby:
Worked up an appetite after exploring the Court? Here are some great spots nearby:
- We, The Pizza 🍕 (10 minutes away): A fun and casual spot serving up delicious New York-style pizza and refreshing homemade sodas.
- Good Stuff Eatery 🍔 (10 minutes away): Craving a burger? This spot is famous for its juicy burgers, hand-cut fries, and milkshakes!
- Tortilla Coast 🌮 (8 minutes away): A great place for Tex-Mex food, with tasty tacos and margaritas—perfect for a quick lunch!
- Capitol Hill Books ☕ (12 minutes away): Not exactly a café, but this quirky second-hand bookstore is perfect for grabbing a coffee nearby and leafing through some interesting reads.
- Ebenezers Coffeehouse ☕ (12 minutes away): A cozy coffee shop near Union Station with great espresso and community vibes.
(4) Best Photo Spots 📸
You’ll definitely want to capture the iconic beauty of the Supreme Court building. Here are the best photo spots:
- The Front Steps: The most iconic spot for a photo. Stand on the steps with the imposing columns and the inscription “Equal Justice Under Law” in the background.
- The Great Hall (inside): If you’re lucky enough to get inside, the Great Hall is stunning—lined with marble columns and busts of former Chief Justices.
- The West Lawn: A great place to snap a wide shot of the entire building, especially in the morning when the sun is rising behind the Capitol.
- Capitol Building Views: Since the Supreme Court is right next to the U.S. Capitol, you can grab a two-for-one shot with both iconic buildings in view!
(5) Opening Times: 🕒
The Supreme Court is open to the public Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. It’s closed on federal holidays. Court sessions are open to the public, but seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Oral arguments are held from October through April, typically on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.
(6) Additional Insider Tips: 💡
- Attend an Oral Argument: Want to see the Court in action? You can attend oral arguments, but you’ll need to arrive early—often before 7:00 AM—to secure a spot in the courtroom.
- Courtroom Lectures: Even if you can’t attend a session, you can still enjoy a free 30-minute lecture about the building’s history and the judicial process. These are offered every hour on the half-hour when the Court is not in session.
- Security: Since the Supreme Court is a high-security building, expect to go through metal detectors, and large bags are not allowed inside.
- Supreme Court Gift Shop: Don’t leave without grabbing something from the gift shop on the ground floor! They have some unique legal-themed souvenirs and books.
(7) Hidden Gem 💎
The John Marshall Statue located in the basement level is often overlooked by visitors. John Marshall was the influential Chief Justice who helped define the role of the Supreme Court in American government. The statue is an impressive tribute to his legacy and a great quiet spot for reflection away from the main crowds.
(8) Public Bathrooms Nearby 🚻
- Supreme Court Building: There are public restrooms available on the lower level of the building.
- Library of Congress (across the street): If you’re heading next door, the Library of Congress also has clean public restrooms, perfect for a quick stop.
What is Audio Guide Washington D.C. | Walking Tour of Washington D.C. in a Day?
Audio Guide Washington, D.C. | Walking Tour from the Lincoln Memorial to the White House
Welcome to "Audio Guide Washington, D.C. | Walking Tour from the Lincoln Memorial to the White House," your perfect companion for exploring the nation's capital in one unforgettable journey! This expertly designed audio guide takes you through the most iconic landmarks, memorials, and museums along the National Mall, culminating at the White House. Perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike, our tour ensures you don't miss a single highlight while immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Washington, D.C.
Tour Stops:
Lincoln Memorial
Begin your journey at the majestic Lincoln Memorial, honoring the 16th President of the United States.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Pay your respects at this somber tribute to the soldiers who served in the Vietnam War.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
Celebrate the legacy of the civil rights leader who transformed a nation.
Tidal Basin
Take in the serene beauty of this iconic reservoir, surrounded by stunning memorials and cherry blossoms.
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Honor the third U.S. President and author of the Declaration of Independence.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
A powerful museum dedicated to remembering the Holocaust and educating future generations.
National Mall
Stroll through this historic park, the centerpiece of Washington, D.C.
Washington Monument
Stand in awe of this towering symbol of the nation's first president.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Explore the rich and complex history of African Americans in the United States.
National Museum of American History
Discover the stories and artifacts that have shaped American history.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Dive into the wonders of the natural world, from dinosaurs to gems.
The National Archives Museum
View the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights.
National Gallery of Art
Admire an extensive collection of art spanning centuries and styles.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Launch into the history of aviation and space exploration.
United States Botanic Garden
Enjoy the lush and diverse plant life of this historic garden.
Library of Congress
Visit the world’s largest library and marvel at its stunning architecture.
United States Capitol
Learn about the seat of the U.S. Congress and the heart of American democracy.
Supreme Court of the United States
Understand the role of the highest court in the land.
Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery
Encounter the faces and stories of influential figures in American history.
The White House
Conclude your tour at the iconic residence of the U.S. President.
Join us as we walk through the heart of American history, culture, and politics. Our engaging commentary, fascinating stories, and insider tips will enhance your visit to Washington, D.C., making it both informative and memorable. Whether you're exploring the city on foot or virtually, this audio guide ensures you experience the best of the nation’s capital!