Check out where U.S. currency is made and take a tour with this unique free experience.
What and where is the U.S. Bureau of Engraving & Printing?
The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing, founded in 1862, produces Federal Reserve Notes (also known as paper money, or U.S. dollars) for the Federal Reserve, our country’s central bank (note that coins are made by the United States Mint). The Bureau also produces Treasury securities, military commissions and award certificates, ID cards, invitations and an additional range of security documents for government agencies, making it the largest producer of government security documents in the U.S.
The Bureau has two locations: one in Forth Worth, Tx. and the other in, you guessed it, Washington, DC. The official address is 301 14th Street SW, Washington, DC 20228. The facility features two adjacent buildings, with the facade of the main building facing Raoul Wallenburg Place SW, the Tidal Basin and the Jefferson Memorial.
Take a tour of the "money factory"
Tickets, which are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, are required for the tour from March through November. The ticket booth is located at Raoul Wallenburg Place SW (formerly known as 15th Street) and opens at 8 a.m., Monday through Friday. The booth closes when all tickets have been distributed for the day.
Group tours for groups of 10 up to 30 people run every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. – noon. Limited reserved tour times are offered. To reserve a group tour, fill out the Group Reservation Request Form and e-mail it to TourScheduler@bep.gov. You can learn more about group tours by calling 202-874-2330 or 1-866-874-2330.
Call 202-874-2330 for more information about the accessible entrance.
All visitors must pass through a security screening before entering the Bureau. Tour guides will direct visitors to enter the building when appropriate.
What will I see on the tour?
The 40-minute experience will enlighten you on all things related to U.S. currency. The tour begins with an introductory film that details the function of the Bureau and its importance. Along the way, you’ll witness millions of dollars being printed as you stroll through the gallery that overlooks the production floor.
The tour also includes exhibits that dive further into the production of our national currency. There’s also a gift shop, open from 8:30 a.m. – 2:45 p.m., that features currency products for sale.
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