Guided field trips are a great way for your school or student organization to gain an understanding of the federal judiciary and how everyone can participate in American democracy.
Who is it for?
Recommended for 6th graders and above, including AP government classes.
What is there to do?
The St. Paul center offers 1,700 sq. feet of interactive, hands-on, exhibits.
Alternative Visits
For those unable to come to the centers in-person, virtual tours are available.
Our Two Centers
St. Paul Center
Our first center is housed within the Warren E. Burger Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in downtown St. Paul.
100 Federal Building, 316 Robert St N, St Paul, MN 55101
Minneapolis Center
Our second center will open in 2025 within the Diana E. Murphy U.S. Courthouse in downtown Minneapolis.
300 S. Fourth St., Minneapolis, MN 55415
Activities
Meet a Judge
United States District Judges and United States Magistrate Judges are available to meet with groups in-person to talk about their work and answer questions about their role in the justice system.
Visit Chambers
Chambers are the private working areas of federal judges. When available, visitors can get a special tour of the judge’s chambers.
Tour the Courthouse & Visit a Courtroom
The Justice & Democracy Centers of Minnesota are housed within working courthouses. Visitors can see a real courtroom, observe a court proceeding, and learn about its technology.
Meet a U.S. Marshal
Visitors may have the chance to meet a Deputy U.S. Marshals and learn about their role as the law enforcement agency for the federal courts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about visiting the centers? Find answers here.
When are field trips available?
Guided field trips are available Monday-Friday from 8:30am to 4:00pm. Limited evening and weekend field trips are also possible.
Is there a fee to visit the center?
The Justice & Democracy Centers of Minnesota are always free of charge. Guided field trips are provided by staff or volunteer tour guides and are also free of charge.
How many people can my group have?
Guided field trips are available for groups of up to 35 people. Groups of more than 35 may be possible on a case-by-case basis, such as splitting a group up and having some go on a courthouse tour while others visit the center, and then swapping.
How long do field trips last?
Field trip activities can be tailored to your group’s needs and can last anywhere from one hour to a half day.
Do you provide bussing?
Bussing grants are available to schools who indicate the need.
Do you provide substitute teacher funds?
Funds for single-day substitute teachers are available to schools who indicate the need.
Do you have lunch facilities?
The center has space for groups to eat bagged lunches.
Is the space ADA accessible?
Yes, the entire federal courthouse, including the Justice & Democracy Centers, comply with ADA guidelines, including captioning on all videos. Braille content is available by request.
