I love old buildings in history. The architecture in this building is completely amazing. Just walking through it's tall hallways I can tell a lot happened here. It's a beautiful place and a beautiful building read more

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It's a nice stop in to see everything, as well as learn about the history of St. Louis. It's kind of like a mini museum because it has many things to look at such as the Dred Scott Case, the people who settled on this land, and many other details of how this historic city came about. It feels like a Capitol building, but it's a little smaller than that. There are many floors of this building, and in the center, there's a cool wall that was like an art painting. You can take pictures and it seems like an optical illusion. I really enjoyed how you can go up the iron stairs, which are a fine part of this building. There's also information about the pioneers, and settlers who came into this land. On top of that, there are many bison heads, as well as statues that are similar to the livestock that was involved during this period. You can even buy tickets to see the Gateway Arch in advance at this building. They also offer many tours around the city, but booking is extremely limited, especially with family trips in the summer. Come on down and learn about historic St. Louis. There is a lot of knowledge at this building, as well as many interesting details to observe. read more

The Old Courthouse wasn't anything fancy. It was cool to see where part of the Dred Scott case took place but there really wasn't anything that exciting. I wouldn't go out of my way to come here. If you're at the arch and want to walk up to it's about 10 minute walk). There are a few other little exhibits here but seeing everything doesn't take over 30-45 minutes. There is a nice little gift shop here as well read more

Old Courthouse - The dome - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

I've never been too into history...actually I've NEVER been into history, but the Courthouse building in St. Louis just drew me in. Mainly because it's so pretty! I was in there only for about 15 minutes or so (it's free) and I learned so much about slavery and our country's past. It was so fasinating, I even enjoyed it! And to top it off, if you are a shopaholic like myself, they have an awesome gift shop with great gifts that have good prices! read more

Very col to check this out! The inside dome was spectacular. It's free to go inside and it's like a small museum. Lots of historical facts and interesting things to see, plus a gift shop. Very interesting and glad we found out about this place. We were looking to kill some time and this was the perfect place to do it. Loved it. read more

This Building is stunning. The simple Greek Revival exterior does not prepare you for the rotunda inside. You will spend a lot of time standing still and looking up. Lots of St. Louis history exhibits as well as a fine gift shop. Park rangers do regularly scheduled tours of the buildings. Do not miss the spiral staircases, or the statue of Harriet and Dred Scott outside. read more

It is a must go site when you visit the arch. Free and nice. Also found some interesting souvenirs in the gift shop here. read more

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Such cool history! You can climb your way up pretty high... 3 or 4 floors up. Read the signs and take it all in! Its actually interesting to just walk around and enjoy whats there and has been there. Really friendly staff as well. *you buy the arch tickets in here as well!* read more

It's a place you have to see. The park staff were great and gave us so much information. Construction wasn't too bad. read more

Old Courthouse - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

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Wow! The arch is a national treasure. Very worth the trip up in the crazy elevators. Check out the museum below--it doesn't take long and is an impressive history of the expansion Westward. If you have time, explore the gorgeous woodwork and architecture of the old courthouse nearby, where the famous Dred Scott case was tried! read more

Always a good thing to visit when in STL! If you want to ride to the top, be prepared to be in a TINY capsule for a few minutes to get up there. it's fine as long as you aren't claustrophobic. Sometimes it'll get crowded so maybe going on a weekday would be better for those who don't like the crowds. You can get some great photos taken from the top on a clear day, and definitely take some cool photos at the bottom. read more

A historical landmark: summarized well on the brochures so I won't go over that here. Old buildings are hit-and-miss for preservation and education, but this is a hit on all accounts: beautifully restored, excellent displays on St. Louis history (short and sweet), interesting history that concentrated some very key events in American history: this is a must-see for any tourist and it is linked under the National Park Service with the National Westward Expansion museum which makes a lot of sense---the arch frames and honors this building in a genius symmetry. Fun to explore on your own and wander the twisty free-standing steps to examine the original art. read more

The Arch & Courthouse tours are a St. Louis tradition! During our family reunion weekend we visited many landmarks in the downtown area. The view from the top of the Arch seemed to be the highlight of our sightseeing amongst family members. Thankfully we reserved tickets in advance because it was a busy weekend for touring! I suggest wearing your walking shoes and carve out time during your visit to embrace the best of what the city has to offer. read more

Old Courthouse - View from Top of the Arch! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

What can I say. It's a St. Louis icon, a symbol of westward expansion. If your in St. Louis... Go! The look out at the top is amazing, you can see the new stadium and the river. The museum and visitor center is very well done. There are two theaters, gift shop, photo center. Warning. The tiny little egg shaped pod that they call a "tram" to the top can make the toughest of claustrophobs reeling (not me of course). It does feel a little like a Disney land ride, standing in line waiting for the doors to open.... Watching a info movie to keep the masses entertained. Also; try not to go when there is a school field trip or a weekend. That's a given though I'm sure :-) read more

Yeah, this is incredibly touristy, but you have to do it! The Old Courthouse is beautiful and underrated. The Dred Scott case was commenced here and it has a rich history. It is interesting to see time stand still in the restored capital and courtroom. Not to mention, it is air conditioned and sometimes you need a little cool off.... Now the arch: 1 - Pack water and snacks! 2 - This is a great park so spend some time here. 3 - Wear comfortable shoes, walking is unavoidable. 4 - Use the parking garage, they do not kick you out after your visit and you can walk around the landing as well. The price is really affordable. 5 - There are two entrances to the visitors center (where you take the elevator up). So check each side, sometimes one line is shorter. 6 - The elevator? If you are claustrophobic just do not chance it. They are tiny, seriously google it. 7 - The arch is gorgeous but you can get the best pictures from the steps of the courthouse. So have fun! Definitely not a place to skip. read more

I like the Arch and it is nice to just get in the pod that takes you the top of the 630 feet construction of steel! This is my second time on top but my first time I was so excited and I loved everything about it, especially the view is beautiful of the city and river. The second time I went I wasn't as amazed it was still beautiful but not as exciting for me. It's a one time deal of things to do in my opinion. This time I went with my friend. It was cool to be with someone to see their face and get wrapped up in their excitement about going to the top of the Arch. Although the view was still gorgeous the look on my friend's face was priceless, as the Arch swayed a little when the wind blew she had enough...I think we were up there 5 minutes, even the people we rode up with in the pod asked us if we were leaving...I just shook my head yes and the sightseeing part of our fun and food adventure was over...lol, she was ready to go and go we did...lol When you get your ticket they tell you the tour is about 45-60 minutes note that is wait time to get on the pod that takes you to the top of the Arch is added into that time frame. It only takes about 4 minutes to get to the top once you enter the pod. After you get up there depending on the amount of people that are on top of the Arch you may be there for 10 to 15 minutes...there is no time frame once you get up to the either so if you wanted to stay longer you can! I'm still glad I was able to experience the Arch and although I didn't stay up there that long the second time I think its something to see the city from that high up, we even saw a wedding while we were there this time! If small wonders become big wonders to you then this a must see! read more

Fun ride to the top. Teeny windows, but good views. Could really feel the sway. Reasonable prices.

Stopped by here after visiting the Arch. It's a beautiful building and the exhibits are nice. It's interesting to read about the history that took place there. Not a far walk from the Arch (although with current construction it takes a little longer than it probably normally does- took us about 15 minutes). Not sure what parking is like, we walked or took public transpiration while we were in STL. Definitely stop by to see this while in town! read more

Old Courthouse - From the third level of the courthouse - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

Free admission. Fun and educational for all ages. Nice place to go while seeing the arch! Its something to do with your children and learn new things! read more

We bought tickets for 7:50pm so we could see the sun set at 8:15pm. Got to the top of the Arch at 8:40pm....total darkness. Too long of wait in endless lines. Wish I knew this before buying tickets. Also, it was packed at the top....could hardly move & we had an 6 yr. old with us...had to hold her hand. Couldn't get to the windows to see out. I have been up the Arch multiple times & never ever been over crowded!! Too crowded, not safe! The grounds & museum are wonderful, gorgeous...nice job! Didn't have to buy tickets....never took, look, scan our tickets.....interesting. Young staff at the front of the line were enjoying each other's company. read more

Wonderful display of history!! You have to stand in the middle and hear your echo. If you step outside if it you won't hear it. The stairs are beautiful. The courtrooms are so nicely kept. read more

Wow!! What a great piece of American history! We were surprised when we entered the courthouse to find the grand architecture and murals that were painted throughout. We participated in the reenactment of the Dread Scott trial (highly recommend) and learned a ton. The gift shop was great as well and offered everything from magnets to canned preserves. The apple butter was delicious! Definitely recommend! read more

A must stop N visit place if you are in town.. Known for its historical significance, this place is very well made and well explained to the visitors.. read more

Are you kidding? Ya gotta see the arch if you're in St. Louis! Mind you, you don't have to go UP the arch. In fact, I un-recommend going up! It's a crappy ride and you can't see anything from up there. The view is from down below, and it's magnificant! Walk to the legs of the arch and enter the base for free. Tour the exhibits for free and get a mug or tie at the gift shop. Hey, it's a national monument for christ's sake! Park around the stadium and walk down. DO NOT try to park AT the arch! But definitely check it out. It's an amazing structure! read more

A St. Louis must-see. When you go here, it might be a good idea to bring some activities to play in the park where the arch sits. It's a really nice and scenic place to just hang out. I haven't been up since I was a little kid, but I hear it's not thaaaat great. The long line outside is for the museum beneath the arch, you still have to buy tickets for a later time to go up the monument. read more

When I called in advance to purchase my tickets for the St. Louis Arch, the receptionist informed me I would have to go the St. Louis Old Courthouse to pick up my tickets, even though I had paid over the phone. My brother who came to St. Louis a month or so before assumed you just go to the arch.. EHHH WRONG! You have to stop by here before you to proceed to the arch. When we entered the courthouse, there were multiple rooms we encountered. We finally found the room for the ticket pick up and ticket purchases for the arch. We arrived at the court house around 11:30am ish and there were multiple signs that noted they were sold out of tickets for the arch on that day but you could pre-purchase for the following day. NOTE: if you are not going to buy your tickets in advance get there early! Thank GOD I called ahead and we were able to secure our tickets. I asked one of staff member in the room, if there was any way I could receive my tickets quicker or did I have to wait in the long line? The nice gentlemen told me I did not have to wait since I had already purchased my tickets and escorted me to the front. The lady who printed out my arch tickets gave me the run down of how to get to the arch and asked that we be located in the arch line 30-45 minutes before our tour time. After I received our tour tickets, my family and I had plenty of time to kill so we wondered around the court house for a bit. There were many interesting facts, exhibits, videos, and general information about slavery and the civil rights era and the Dred Scott case. We did not make it around the entire court house, but I really enjoyed all the information they presented on the Dred Scott case. The bathrooms were clean and standing in the middle of the court house looking at the top the dome was very cool. Also, be sure to check out the statue of Dred Scott and his wife located outside in the back of the court house. read more

Old Courthouse - Dred Scott and his wife - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Saint Louis, Missouri

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Out of towners just wanting to check a national monument off the list. It was pretty neat. Could either be a half hour trip or 3 hour trip depending on the movies you wanted to watch. Have a free museum to walk through while waiting for your tram to take you to the top. I think there could have been more info and facts about the arch on the tour. Tram cars a little small but we all fit just fine. read more

We ended up walking into the Old Courthouse by accident, but ended up staying a few hours. It's a beautiful building inside and out, with a wealth of information about the history of the city - great for me as I knew none of it before venturing inside this building! Definitely worth a look when you're passing through St Louis. read more

What's a road trip in the Midwest without visiting the St. Louis Arch? We went up inside and got to see a breathtaking view of the area. It's a cool sight to see so definitely check it out if you're passing through. read more

Please don't tell anybody that my new favorite attraction is the Arch and I cry when I see it when driving through that area.

the arch exceeded my expectations! it's absolutely stunning and it'sway bigger than i expected it to be. i didn't even know you could take the elevator to the top!! i'm sad i didn't get to do this, but if i ever come back - it'll be on my list! read more

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Seriously if you want to damage your children for life take them in a tiny tram that is crammed with people thousands a feet above a river where you can feel the sway of the arch that sits there indefinitely an absurd amount of time but just enough for at least two people to freak out. But while you wait to get on the tram you get to see the world's worst museum filled with Gateway to the West crap and Indian mounds. read more

Definitely worth the visit!! The arch ceiling is breathtaking! Cool old time candy in gift shop and inexpensive!!!!

I love history so I was totally excited about visiting such an historic place in St. Louis. I happened to go on a day that was almost 100 degrees, so it was very hot; since there was no central air when it was built (I guess). There is signage all over to walk you through extensive eras of St. Louis history in regards to law, society and even slavery. Signage is very descriptive and thorough and helps you envision what it was like in it's heyday. Get there early! We arrived before 9:30 and it was already getting crowded since it is also where you purchase tix for the Gateway Arch. I only gave it three stars because of the heat and the lack of available parking in the area. read more

There are a ton of exhibits on the history of St Louis in the old courthouse. Everything from city history, to the freeing of the slaves. They even have an interesting movie about it, all completely free. The building itself it pretty as well. If you're visiting the arch, you really need to stop in at the courthouse. read more

I've always wanted to come here and finally made it! I had a great time and the crowd wasn't too bad at all. The elevators going to the top were very unique. I was very surprised how tall it was, only seeing it from a distance you dont really apprecaite it until your next to it. There are some beautiful views from the top. read more

Great history folks on the Dred Scott case. Do the 10-min video before exploring the museum. It'll put you in the right frame of mind.

Historical place in the middle of the city. Free! Very informative.

I enjoyed my visit here. The museum inside or near the arch was interesting but I was most amazed by the arch. I got online to read about why it was build and other details after my trip there. Good place for kids and people visiting out of town. If you are scared of heights you must overcome them because the ride up to the top of the arch is a great experience and the view from the top is breathtaking. read more

What else are you going to do in St. Louis besides ride in a tiny pod to the top of the Gateway Arch? If you choose to go to the top of the Arch, you will ride in a space capsule that holds five people and takes about three minutes to get to the top. From the top, you have amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River. It is worth the ride if you don't mind being temporarily enclosed in a tiny space. The museum at the bottom of the arch was more like a display of animated figures telling you about the "history" of Westward Expansion. As a teacher, I found the whole concept a little hokey, but I appreciate the effort to educate the public. read more