Government facility offering guided tours that showcase the intricate process of printing U.S. paper currency through elevated walkways and educational exhibits.

How to Get There

Head south on 14th Street SW from the National Mall and enter through the Tour and Visitor Center entrance at 14th and C Streets SW.

Overview

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Washington, D.C. offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the production of U.S. paper currency. Visitors can observe the printing process from an enclosed walkway above the production floor, where billions of dollars are created each year. The tour begins with an introductory film and continues through exhibits that explain the history, security features, and craftsmanship involved in currency design. The facility also includes a Visitor Center with displays of historical notes, printing plates, and interactive exhibits.

Established during the Civil War in 1862, the Bureau began with just six employees and has grown into a cornerstone of the U.S. Treasury. Today, it prints all U.S. paper money and also produces documents for other federal agencies. The Washington, D.C. location is one of only two in the country, the other being in Fort Worth, Texas. With free admission and a central location near the National Mall, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing is a fascinating stop for anyone interested in economics, history, or the art of money-making.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.