Old Red Courthouse
A magnificent 1892 Richardsonian Romanesque courthouse, now home to the Texas Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Admire its stunning architecture!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Old Red Courthouse
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 1892 Richardsonian Romanesque courthouse, now home to the Texas Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Admire its stunning architecture!
"The Dallas County Courthouse is a true architectural gem. Its intricate stone carvings, stunning stained-glass windows, and imposing clock tower make it a must-see."
📸 Photographer's Paradise
The exterior is stunning! Perfect for capturing Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Civic Roots Restored
It's now a courthouse, not a museum, but the building's history is palpable. :old_key:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Grandeur
Exterior
Admire the Richardsonian Romanesque style, red sandstone, and granite. A true feast for the eyes!
The Iconic Clock Tower
Exterior
Marvel at the impressive 90ft. four-faced clock tower, a defining feature of the Dallas skyline.
Dealey Plaza Proximity
Adjacent to Dealey Plaza
Located near the JFK Memorial and Dealey Plaza, offering a historical context to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Historic Landmark Reimagined
Timing Your Visit for Architecture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photographer's Paradise
The exterior is stunning! Perfect for capturing Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Civic Roots Restored
It's now a courthouse, not a museum, but the building's history is palpable. :old_key:
📍 Near Dealey Plaza
Combine your visit with the JFK Memorial and Dealey Plaza for a historical tour. :world_map:
💡 Admire the Details
Look for the terra cotta Wyverns and intricate stone carvings. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photographer's Paradise
The exterior is stunning! Perfect for capturing Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Civic Roots Restored
It's now a courthouse, not a museum, but the building's history is palpable. :old_key:
📍 Near Dealey Plaza
Combine your visit with the JFK Memorial and Dealey Plaza for a historical tour. :world_map:
💡 Admire the Details
Look for the terra cotta Wyverns and intricate stone carvings. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Red Courthouse for its stunning and imposing architecture, particularly its red sandstone exterior and clock tower. While many lament its closure as a museum, they still appreciate its historical significance and visual appeal as a functioning courthouse. The surrounding area's potential for more amenities is a minor point of feedback.
"The Dallas County Courthouse also known as the Old Red Courthouse was built in 1892. It is constructed with a cast iron frame, red sandstone, and granite. The building of this Romanesque style architecture was in hopes of it remaining fireproof while artfully being involved in the movement of reviving European elements from the 11th and 12th centuries.
Over the years, the courthouse closed yet the building remained. Through projects of restoration and renovations, the old courthouse reopened and became known as the Old Red Museum which housed original artifacts from the courthouse as well as displays of Dallas' history.
To this day, the Old Red Museum is no longer open and the original displays are held at the Criminal Courts/Records Building Complex. Through continuous restoration projects, the old courthouse now operates as the Texas Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
From the turrets to the 90ft. four-faced clock tower, and even the terra cotta molded into Acroteria Wyverns; the building itself is worth all of the admiration. It is clear there is a rich history held at this Dallas County Courthouse. If you ever get a chance to tour it, do it."
Twyla King
"I recently visited the Dallas County Courthouse and was struck by its beautiful architecture and historic significance. The building's Romanesque Revival style and stunning clock tower make it a standout landmark in Dallas. However, the area surrounding the courthouse could benefit from more restaurants, shops, and attractions to make it a more vibrant destination."
Architectural Gem
"The Dallas County Courthouse is a true architectural gem. Its intricate stone carvings, stunning stained-glass windows, and imposing clock tower make it a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, or photography."
Recommendation
"If you're interested in history, architecture, or just want to explore a unique Dallas landmark, the Dallas County Courthouse is definitely worth a visit. Be sure to take a guided tour to learn more about the building's rich history and significance."
Yilmaz Ozmen
"Simply amazing and beautiful. Even though this museum was closed permanently when i visited the outside views and construction was aw inspiring and jaw dropping. I’ve been downtown Dallas numerous times and never really paid attention to this building until today and I couldn’t believe my eyes. This is a great place to visit especially for photographers."
ND4LIFE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Red Courthouse is located in downtown Dallas, near Dealey Plaza. You can reach it by car, with street parking available, or via public transportation. Several bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from some DART light rail stations.
Yes, street parking is generally available around the courthouse. However, it can be competitive, especially during business hours. Consider using nearby parking garages for more reliable options.
Absolutely! It's conveniently located near Dealey Plaza and the Sixth Floor Museum, making it easy to incorporate into a walking tour of downtown Dallas historical sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required to visit the Old Red Courthouse as it is now a functioning courthouse. You can admire its exterior architecture freely.
The Old Red Courthouse is now home to the Texas Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. While you can't tour it as a museum, you can admire its impressive exterior.
As it's a working courthouse, access to the interior is limited to official business. However, the exterior can be viewed at any time.
Yes, it was formerly known as the Old Red Museum and housed exhibits on Dallas history. It has since returned to its original civic use.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the building's stunning Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, including its red sandstone exterior and clock tower. It's a visual treat for architecture enthusiasts.
Definitely! Photographers rave about the building's intricate details, imposing structure, and historical ambiance. The exterior offers numerous great shots.
It's a prime example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, characterized by its use of red sandstone, granite, and a distinctive clock tower.
Built in 1892, it served as the Dallas County Courthouse for many years. Its return to civic use connects it to the ongoing administration of justice in Dallas.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Try capturing it from Dealey Plaza for a sense of scale and historical context. The front facade and the clock tower offer iconic views. Experiment with different times of day for varied lighting.
Absolutely! Focus on the intricate stone carvings, the terra cotta Wyverns, the arched windows, and the imposing clock tower for detailed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Old Red
Beyond its primary materials, the courthouse boasts intricate details that are a delight for architecture enthusiasts. Look closely for terra cotta molded into Acroteria Wyverns and other decorative elements that add a unique flair. The building originally featured a clock tower that was unfortunately demolished in 1919 but has since been restored, re-establishing its place on the Dallas skyline. The sheer scale and craftsmanship evident in its construction make it a standout landmark, even today.
While the building's function has evolved, its architectural significance remains. It stands as a testament to the ambition and design sensibilities of late 19th-century Dallas. For anyone interested in historical architecture, the Old Red Courthouse offers a compelling visual narrative of a bygone era, making its exterior a must-see for visitors.
From Museum to Courtroom: A New Chapter
However, the museum faced challenges, including fundraising difficulties, and eventually closed its doors. The building has since undergone further restoration and has returned to its original civic purpose. It now proudly houses the Texas Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, bringing judicial proceedings back to this iconic Dallas landmark. This transition signifies a return to its roots, ensuring the building continues to serve a vital public function.
+1While the museum exhibits are no longer on display at this location, the building's historical significance and architectural beauty are still accessible to the public from the exterior. Visitors can appreciate its grandeur and imagine the many stories held within its walls, from past court cases to historical displays.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit