Events /
Kiener Plaza
Through a longstanding partnership with the National Park Service and the generous support of Gateway Arch Park Foundation's philanthropic donors, the Old Courthouse has undergone extensive renovations to introduce brand-new exhibits, update critical structural elements, and enhance overall accessibility, ensuring this historic building will remain vibrant for future generations.
More details about the reopening festivities and exhibits coming soon - stay tuned!
Celebrate the restoration of this historic landmark with a day of festivities, educational programming, unveiling of modern exhibits, and opportunities to explore the Old Courthouse.
Stay tuned—our full schedule of events is coming soon!
Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Old Courthouse & Kiener Plaza, 500 Chestnut St, St. Louis, MO 63101. Get directions
The newly completed updates, only the second significant renovations to the Old Courthouse since it was built in 1816, are the final component of the $380-million CityArchRiver project, which has resulted in the revitalization of the Gateway Arch park grounds, Arch Visitor Center, Museum at the Gateway Arch, St. Louis Riverfront, Luther Ely Smith Square, and Kiener Plaza.
The renovations include the installation of an elevator for greater accessibility inside the building, in conjunction with new accessible ramps that were previously installed at both entrances to the outside of the building during phase one of the CityArchRiver renovations
Structural updates, which will help revitalize and maintain the building’s integrity, include a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system; renovated ceilings and flooring; a new fire suppression system; and general restoration and improvements.
The renovations at the Old Courthouse bring overlooked stories to life through modern, interactive exhibits that enhance the educational experience for visitors. Key moments, like the landmark Dred Scott case, are explored in greater depth, offering new insights into the Old Courthouse's pivotal role in U.S. history and the ongoing fight for civil rights.
Read below for detailed information on each new exhibit.
Featuring brand-new and updated exhibit galleries, these dynamic spaces were thoughtfully designed by Haley Sharpe Design in collaboration with Gateway Arch National Park staff.
Focuses on the Scott family’s fight for freedom, which began in the Old Courthouse, and how the legal and political environment at the time culminated in the infamous U.S. Supreme Court Decision which ultimately led to the Civil War The exhibit gallery also reflects on the legacy and relevancy of their case today.
Explores African American life in St. Louis: slavery, the tortured legacy of enslaved individuals seeking freedom, post-Civil War civil rights, and more.
Highlights the architectural features of the Old Courthouse and the spirit of innovation of architects, designers, builders, and craftsmen.
Focuses on the importance of courts in our society, our legal structure, and the daily activities in the courthouse from 1839 to 1930. Visitors will be able to experience an 1850s courtroom and re-enact mock trials that will further their understanding of how our court system allows us to settle disputes peacefully and provide a framework for how our society functions.
Major projects like the Old Courthouse Renovations would not be possible without the support of people like you.
Generous contributions from our members and donors go directly towards our mission, uplifting our hometown national park and strengthening our region. Our mission, which includes conservation on the park grounds, preservation of the park’s storied history, hosting free-to-the-public community events, and funding educational programs for students from under-resourced communities, is critical to the livelyhood of St. Louis.
Join us in shaping the future. Become a member or make a donation today.
See below for frequently asked questions about the Old Courthouse Grand Reopening. If you have further questions, please message us at info@archpark.org.
Yes! This event is 100% free to attend.
RSVPs are not required to attend, but we do encourage you to save the date by visiting our Eventbrite page.
The Old Courthouse is located in the heart of Downtown St. Louis, just west of the Gateway Arch.
Address: 11 N 4th Street, St. Louis, MO 63102
Parking is available at the Kiener Plaza East (500 Pine St.) and West (604 Pine St.) Garages, starting at $8 for up to 12 hours. View on map. Guests who sign up for an InterPark Express account at iparkit.com/register will receive 20% off their first five uses; simply choose your day and time and scan your device to get in and out of the garage. During Cardinals baseball games or other Downtown events, event rates may apply.
Downtown metered and surface lot parking is also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Did you know? Gateway Arch Park Foundation members at the Supporter level and above receive 10 free parks for Kiener East Parking Garage, and discounted parking in Kiener East thereafter, with no blackout dates!
Yes, people of all ages are invited to celebrate the Old Courthouse Grand Reopening.
The best way to show your support for projects like this is by becoming a Gateway Arch Park Foundation member, which also comes with several great perks!
You have the power to shape the future of St. Louis.
Help keep Gateway Arch National Park a vibrant symbol of local pride, global acclaim, and inspiration for millions of visitors each year.
Join today to enjoy exclusive member benefits and make a lasting impact on this iconic landmark and downtown St. Louis.
Make Your Mark