Money Museum

About this museum

The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, located at 230 South LaSalle Street in the heart of Chicago's financial district, offers a fascinating and completely free exploration of American currency and the nation's financial system. For anyone looking for unique things to do in Chicago, this hidden gem museum provides an engaging experience that educates and entertains in equal measure.Admission is free, and no tickets are required, though visitors should be prepared to pass through a security checkpoint upon entry, much like entering any major federal building. Once inside, the museum reveals an impressive collection of exhibits tracing the history and mechanics of American money, from early colonial currency to modern banknotes. Highlights include rare currency specimens, intricate displays showing how money is designed and produced, and the museum's famous million - dollar display, where visitors can see what a million dollars actually looks like up close.The exhibits are designed to be both educational and visually compelling, making complex topics like monetary policy, currency security features, and the role of the Federal Reserve accessible to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are a finance professional, a student, or simply a curious traveler, the Money Museum offers insights that are both surprising and deeply informative.The Money Museum is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is closed on weekends and federal holidays. The facility features a wheelchair - friendly entrance, accessible restrooms, and visitor seating areas. Note that the museum does not have its own parking lot, but nearby parking garages serve the downtown LaSalle Street area.As a free museum in Chicago, the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve is an exceptional find in a city already rich with cultural attractions. It is a place where you can hold history in your hands, see a million dollars with your own eyes, and walk away with a deeper understanding of the currency that drives the American economy. Visit chicagofed.org for more information.