The U.S. Supreme Court hears major matters of law and public policy. Here’s what the inside of the building looks like.
The façade of the Supreme Court building is undergoing restoration work to preserve its marble. (NOTE: this photo was taken in September 2013). Its facade says “equal justice under the law.”
When the building was completed in 1935, some hailed its gleaming white marble majesty, while others thought it was too grandiose — or cold in nature.
They won’t let us take pictures inside the courtroom, even when it’s empty. This was as close as I could get.
This is actually a scale model of the Supremes’ courtroom, but is pretty much true to life.
There are two decorative spiral staircases.
We’ve all heard that the U.S. Supreme Court is the highest court in the land, but there is actually one that is higher. There’s a basketball court located in a former storage space above the famous courtroom. Staffers have to refrain from playing basketball during oral arguments.
The Supreme Court Building is located at 1 First Street NE just a block or so away from Union Station and across the street from the U.S. Capitol. It is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for self-guided tours. Admission is free.
The public can attend court while it is in session but seating is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 9:30am on that morning. As of September 2026, the Court is experimenting with an online lottery system for seating.
September 4, 2013