The Bureau of Engraving and Printing offers a guided tour that typically lasts approximately 45 minutes. This tour provides visitors with an insightful journey into the world of U.S. currency production and its rich history.
Key Facts
- Duration of the Tour: The tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing is approximately 45 minutes long.
- Ticket Requirements: From March through November, tickets are required for the tour. Tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the ticket booth located at Raoul Wallenburg Place SW (formerly known as 15th Street).
- Group Tours: Group tours for 10 to 30 people are available and run every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Limited reserved tour times are also offered for groups. To reserve a group tour, a Group Reservation Request Form needs to be filled out and emailed to the provided email address.
- Security Screening: All visitors must pass through a security screening before entering the Bureau.
- Closure Dates: The tour is closed on federal holidays and from December 22, 2023, through January 1, 2024.
- Visitor Center and Gift Shop: The Bureau has a visitor center with historical exhibits and a gift shop that features currency products for sale.
Ticket Requirements and Distribution
During the months of March through November, individuals planning to take the tour must obtain free same-day tickets. These tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the ticket booth situated at Raoul Wallenburg Place SW (formerly known as 15th Street). It is important to note that visitor lines often form early at the ticket booth, with tickets frequently being distributed by 8:30 a.m. This is particularly true during popular periods such as the Cherry Blossom Festival, Passover/Easter holidays, and days surrounding federal holidays.
Group Tour Arrangements
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing accommodates group tours for groups ranging from 10 to 30 people. These group tours operate every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Additionally, limited reserved tour times are available for groups. To secure a group tour, interested parties must complete a Group Reservation Request Form and submit it via email to the provided address.
Security Screening Measures
Prior to entering the Bureau, all visitors are required to undergo a security screening. This screening process ensures the safety of both visitors and staff members.
Bureau Closure Dates
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing observes federal holidays and is closed on those days. Additionally, the tour is closed during a specific period from December 22, 2023, through January 1, 2024.
Visitor Center and Gift Shop
The Bureau features a visitor center that houses historical exhibits and a gift shop. The gift shop offers an array of currency-related products for purchase.
Sources:
- U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing – Visitor Centers – Washington, DC Tour and Visitor Center – Admission and Tickets
- Guide to the Bureau of Engraving & Printing in DC | Washington DC
- Bureau of Engraving and Printing Tours and Information | Congressman Doug Lamborn
FAQs
How long is the tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing?
The guided tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing typically lasts approximately 45 minutes.
When are tickets required for the tour?
Tickets are required from March through November.
How are tickets distributed?
Tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the ticket booth located at Raoul Wallenburg Place SW (formerly known as 15th Street).
Are there group tours available?
Yes, group tours are available for groups ranging from 10 to 30 people.
How can I book a group tour?
To book a group tour, you need to fill out a Group Reservation Request Form and email it to the provided address.
Is there a security screening before entering the Bureau?
Yes, all visitors must pass through a security screening before entering the Bureau.
Are there any days when the Bureau is closed?
Yes, the Bureau is closed on federal holidays and during a specific period from December 22, 2023, through January 1, 2024.
Does the Bureau have a visitor center and gift shop?
Yes, the Bureau has a visitor center with historical exhibits and a gift shop that sells currency-related products.