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Old Courthouse, Saint Louis

4.5

#3 of 25 in Historic Sites in Saint Louis

Government Building Historic Site

• ©

Visit one of the city's most famous landmarks at Old Courthouse, the site of the beginnings of the famous Dred Scott court case. Completed in 1864, the 59 m (192 ft) tall building has long been an integral part of the local skyline. Join a guided tour of the domed building to learn more about its historical significance, including the 1846 case in which the escaped slave Dred Scott sued for his freedom, a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the Civil War. View the impressive interior of the courthouse, including the dome's decorative ceiling and several restored courtrooms dating to the early 20th century. Keep in mind that you must organize tours in advance by phone with the park rangers. To visit Old Courthouse and get the most from your holiday in Saint Louis, create itinerary details personal to you using our Saint Louis online trip itinerary maker .

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Old Courthouse Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

975 reviews

Google

4.6

• By mlCLE

  The Rangers were informative & friendly. The building beautiful. The self-guided tour is educational and interesting.  more »

• By Allisonspring

  A walk during a conference led to much historical learning at the NP Courthouse. A wonderful peak into the past. Much history happened in St. Louis. This was an enjoyable walk. Did not take much time ...  more »

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Google

• By Khrystyna Prokhorenko

  Beautiful building outside and inside as well! Great place to bring your kids for the history lesson, and of course to educate yourself. On the day of our visit the guide was dressed up, so it felt like history actually came alive. Do not overlook it, the Gateway arch right behind the courthouse. Start with a little schooling and finish at the top of the arch! That's what we did, and enjoyed it all the way!

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• By Tonetta Clay

  A sight to see and experience. Educational and lots of history as you walk through and read about the Scott case and slave trades here in St. Louis. A great place to teach your kids this history that they barely touch on in school.

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