Money Museum Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City
Explore U.S. currency history, see millions in cash, and lift a gold bar at this free Federal Reserve museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Money Museum Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore U.S. currency history, see millions in cash, and lift a gold bar at this free Federal Reserve museum.
"A billion-dollar experience that's surprisingly free and incredibly educational! 
🎯 Free Admission & ID
Entry is free! Just remember to bring a valid ID for security checks.
📸 Photo Ops (Mostly!)
Capture memories, but no photos allowed in the vault.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Vault Experience
Money Vault
Witness pallets of cash being counted and processed. An unforgettable glimpse into the scale of U.S. currency handling.
Harry S. Truman Coin Collection
Exhibit Hall
Marvel at a stunning showcase of U.S. minting craftsmanship and presidential history.
Lift a Gold Bar
Interactive Exhibit
Test your strength by attempting to lift a real gold bar. A surprisingly heavy and impressive feat!
Shredded Money Souvenir
Exit Area
Take home a unique, free souvenir: a bag of shredded U.S. currency. A fun memento of your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & ID Required
Photography Restrictions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission & ID
Entry is free! Just remember to bring a valid ID for security checks.
📸 Photo Ops (Mostly!)
Capture memories, but no photos allowed in the vault.
💪 Test Your Strength
Try lifting the real gold bar – it's heavier than it looks!
🎁 Unique Free Souvenir
Grab a bag of shredded money on your way out!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission & ID
Entry is free! Just remember to bring a valid ID for security checks.
📸 Photo Ops (Mostly!)
Capture memories, but no photos allowed in the vault.
💪 Test Your Strength
Try lifting the real gold bar – it's heavier than it looks!
🎁 Unique Free Souvenir
Grab a bag of shredded money on your way out!
⏳ Allow an Hour
You'll need about an hour to explore all the exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Money Museum as a hidden gem, praising its free admission and engaging exhibits. Highlights include the impressive vault viewing, the chance to lift a gold bar, and the historical coin collection. It's considered a fun and educational experience for all ages, with many appreciating the unique shredded money souvenir. +1
"If you're curious about U.S. currency or just appreciate well-done museums, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City’s Money Museum is a hidden gem.
The Truman coin set exhibit is truly stunning; a perfect showcase of U.S. minting craftsmanship and presidential history.
The vault room is an absolute standout. Getting to step watch them count and stack notes and to see pallets of millions of dollars is unforgettable.
Every exhibit is educational and thoughtfully designed, from how money is printed to its role in the economy. There are interactive displays and knowledgeable staff who make learning fun.
Best of all? Admission is free. I walked away with a deeper understanding of currency and even a fun souvenir. Highly recommend for families, students, or anyone with a curious mind!"
Megan Mulholland
"Truly a cool place to visit to learn about the past, present & future of American money. The Money Museum is cool for Adults & kids. Pictures are allowed everywhere except for the money vault. There is a real gold bar that you can view. Best of all the museum is free and they give you a small bag of shredded money as a gift & a small journal."
Melondy West
"Free museum with free cut up bills at the end. Learn about currency through the years. Lift a very heavy gold bar. Fiat money government-issued currency that is not backed by a physical commodity, such as gold or silver. Its value is derived from the trust and confidence that people place in the government issuing it. The term "fiat" comes from Latin, meaning "let it be done," reflecting the fact that its value is based on a government decree."
Eladio Chavez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Money Museum is located at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. It's accessible by car, with nearby parking options, or via public transportation. Check local transit routes for the most convenient way to reach the bank.
While specific parking details can vary, visitors typically find parking garages or street parking in the vicinity of the Federal Reserve Bank. It's advisable to check the bank's official website or local parking apps for the most current information.
The Money Museum's hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
No, tickets are not required as admission to the Money Museum is free. However, you will need a valid ID for entry.
The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City is generally accessible. It's recommended to contact the museum directly if you have specific accessibility needs to ensure a comfortable visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Money Museum is completely free! This makes it a fantastic budget-friendly attraction in Kansas City. +1
You will need a valid form of identification to enter the Federal Reserve Bank and access the Money Museum. This is part of their security procedures.
There are no specific age restrictions for visiting the Money Museum. It's an educational experience suitable for all ages, from children to adults.
Visitors may be subject to bag checks similar to airport security. It's best to bring only essential items to expedite your entry.
The Money Museum has security measures similar to airport security, including ID checks. Be prepared for a screening process before entering.
🎫 💰 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the vault experience where you can see millions of dollars being processed, the Harry S. Truman coin collection, and the interactive exhibit where you can try to lift a real gold bar.
Photography is allowed in most areas of the museum, but it is strictly prohibited inside the money vault for security reasons.
This interactive exhibit allows you to test your strength by attempting to lift a real gold bar, giving you a tangible sense of its immense weight.
Yes, visitors often receive a complimentary bag of shredded U.S. currency as a unique souvenir of their visit.
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the exhibits and enjoying the interactive displays.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Money Museum itself does not have a cafe or dining facilities. You'll need to explore nearby restaurants in Kansas City for food options.
Yes, the Federal Reserve Bank is located in downtown Kansas City, which offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
You can take photos of most exhibits, including the historical currency displays and interactive stations. However, photography is not permitted inside the money vault.
Great photo opportunities include the displays of historical U.S. currency, the interactive exhibits like the gold bar lift, and the exterior of the impressive Federal Reserve Bank building.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to avoid using flash photography in museums to protect exhibits and not disturb other visitors. Always check for posted signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for about an hour to explore, and remember to bring IDs for everyone. While photography is restricted in the vault, there are plenty of other visually interesting exhibits to capture. It's an educational and entertaining experience that offers great value.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with other free activities in the downtown area to create a full day of exploration without breaking the bank. Remember to bring your ID for entry and be prepared for security checks. The free shredded money souvenir is a nice bonus!
🤓 Curious Minds & History Buffs
The museum provides a well-rounded understanding of the Federal Reserve's role and the intricate processes involved in managing national currency. The blend of historical artifacts, operational insights, and interactive elements makes for a thoroughly enriching experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vault: A Glimpse into Currency Processing
This operational view is not just about seeing money; it's about understanding the logistics and security involved in maintaining the nation's currency. The efficiency and scale of the operation are impressive, offering a unique educational experience that goes beyond static displays. It's a dynamic exhibit that showcases the vital role the Federal Reserve plays in the financial system.
While photography is not allowed inside the vault itself, the visual impact of this area is unforgettable. It’s a powerful reminder of the physical manifestation of economic activity and a key reason why the Money Museum is considered a must-visit in Kansas City.
A Journey Through U.S. Currency History
Beyond coins, the museum delves into the printing and design of U.S. banknotes. Interactive displays explain the security features of modern currency and the historical context behind different designs. Visitors can learn about the economic principles that underpin the value of money, including the concept of fiat currency and its reliance on public trust.
This historical perspective is presented in an engaging and accessible manner, making it enjoyable for both adults and children. It’s an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for the artifacts we use every day and the complex system they represent.
Interactive Fun and Unique Takeaways
Beyond the gold bar, the museum features various digital and physical interactive exhibits designed to explain economic concepts in simple terms. These engaging displays cater to different learning styles and ensure that visitors of all ages can participate and learn.
As a parting gift, the museum offers a unique and free souvenir: a bag of shredded U.S. currency. This small token serves as a tangible reminder of the visit and the fascinating world of money explored within the museum.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit