Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago—Money Museum

Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago—Money Museum is at 230 S. LaSalle St. The museum houses exhibits explaining the history of the Federal Reserve and its role in promoting economic growth in the United States. Visitors step over a glass display case set in the floor filled with thousands of coins illustrating the variety that has been minted over the years. The Life Cycle of the Dollar exhibit details the stages paper currency goes through from its printing to its removal from circulation and destruction. Three displays show what one million dollars looks like in $1, $20 and $100 denominations.

An interactive display allows visitors to design their own currency; a bag of shredded currency is provided to each visitor. A 9-minute video presentation also is offered. The museum is housed in the 1922 Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago building, an imposing edifice with a classic, Greek Revival-style colonnade soaring 65 feet above the street.

Note: A valid government-issued photo ID is required to enter the museum for visitors 18 and over.

Guided tours are available. Time: Allow 1 hour, 30 minutes minimum.