Supreme Court of the United States in Washington, DC

See the United States judicial system in action with a visit to the U.S. Supreme Court, a Greek-style temple that houses the nine-member high court that lays the laws of land.   Supreme Court arguments and release of opinion are open to the public, although seating is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. Visitors can choose to enjoy a three-minute view of the proceedings, or to try to obtain a seat to sit through an entire oral argument or court opinion session. Admission is, of course, free, and the Washington Post publishes a description of current cases.

When court is not in session, there is still plenty to do and see at the Supreme Court. A short film offers a bit of history of the court and the current building, and lectures are often offered in the chamber when the court is not seated. Visitors can also obtain a guide to explore the architecture of the building and its history. From the "Equal Justice Under Law" inscription outside to details of the Court Chamber, this self-guided tour offers all the details of this remarkable building and its history.