Inside the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago at 230 S LaSalle St, the Chicago Fed Money Museum traces the history of American currency and explains the role of the Federal Reserve. Interactive exhibits let you test your eye for counterfeit bills and explore economic ideas. See a display of one million dollars, step into a pit filled with coins, and take home a small bag of shredded money. Admission is free, and allow about one to two hours to explore.
Money inside the Federal Reserve Bank
The Chicago Fed Money Museum is at 230 S LaSalle St, inside the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Its exhibits explain how money has changed over time and introduce the Federal Reserve’s role in the economy. The museum opened in 2001 to help the public understand that role.
Displays cover US currency and economic concepts, with historical money and Military Notes among the subjects visitors can explore. Multimedia presentations add context to the exhibits. The museum is compact, so a visit can fit between other downtown stops, though the exhibit material can also fill a longer visit.
Interactive exhibits and money displays
Several exhibits invite you to take part rather than only read display panels. You can try identifying counterfeit currency and explore activities about creating currency and managing inflation. These hands-on elements make the subject accessible to families as well as adults interested in banking and money.
A million-dollar display shows the amount in different denominations and is a popular photo stop. There is also a coin-filled pit, with coins worth more than $50,000, and a collection that includes a coin once concealed inside a wall. Before leaving, you can pick up a free bag of shredded banknotes.
Planning your visit
Admission is free, and visitors need to show a government-issued ID to enter. A weekday guided tour is listed for 1pm. Check the museum’s current visitor information before relying on the tour time, as arrangements can change.
Allow about one to two hours to see the exhibits. If you are fitting the museum into a busy day, it can also work as a shorter stop after a nearby attraction such as Willis Tower. The indoor displays provide an air-conditioned break during hot weather.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the Chicago Fed Money Museum free?
Yes. Admission is free.
Do you need ID to enter the Chicago Fed Money Museum?
Yes. Bring a government-issued ID.
How long should you spend at the museum?
Plan for about one to two hours to explore the exhibits.
What can you see at the Chicago Fed Money Museum?
Exhibits cover US currency, the Federal Reserve and economic concepts. Highlights include a million-dollar display, a coin-filled pit and interactive activities.
