Enjoy a guided tour of the art (including specially-commissioned paintings by Ellsworth Kelly) and architecture of the Moakley Federal Courthouse and learn about the Federal Court system. Offered by Discovering Justice: the James D. St. Clair Court Education Project, these unique tours are offered year-round Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at no charge. Inside the Courthouse, electronic devices must be checked with security, and two forms of identification, including one with a photograph, are required. An observation area is on teh 2nd floor seating area and from the Library on the 9th floor, for a great view during normal business hours.
The open space on the waterside of the Moakley Courthouse provides stunning panoramic views of Boston Harbor from Downtown to East Boston. Along the HarborWalk, interpretive panels and ship silhouettes present the history of Fan Pier and Boston Harbor. A large medallion next to the HarborWalk shows the history of Boston Harbor and the Islands (popular with visitors for stone rubbings). The area includes sitting areas, picnic tables, public restrooms, and native plantings with informative plaques.