Bureau of Engraving in Dc
Watch millions being produced at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. (Photo: Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images )
Touring the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Washington, D.C. circa 1862 probably was not as entertaining as it is today. Back in the 19th century, the nation's currency was produced by six people who separated and sealed each note by hand in a basement room of the Treasury building. Today's facility in Washington, D.C., provides the opportunity to watch millions of dollars cycle through state-of-the-art machinery as well as see exhibits on traditional currency and past tools of the trade. Washington, D.C. mint tours are available year-round for free, and a they're popular way to see behind the scenes in the nation's capital.
Getting to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Take the Metrorail to the Smithsonian Station and walk the less than half-mile route from the station or take other modes of public transportation to the building's entrance at 14th and C Streets SW. Parking is limited in this part of Washington and driving is not recommended, but a parking garage within a block of the tour entrance is available.
Getting Tickets at Visitor Center
Go to the visitor center and join the line for the next available tour during the non-peak season of September through February. Tours of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing are free and offered on a first-come, first served basis. During peak season, March through August, tourists must get a ticket from the booth on Raoul Wallenberg Place, a block away. Tickets are available starting at 8 a.m. but can be gone within the hour during the heavy tourist season, so show up early to ensure a spot on tour. Know that B.E.P. tours are especially popular on holiday weekends, during school holidays and during the Cherry Blossom Festival.
Taking the Tour
Take the bureau of engraving and printing tour during operating hours. The self-guided audio tour takes about 40 minutes. Be prepared to go through security screening in order to enter the secured facility. Food and drinks are not allowed inside, and you may bring in a camera but are not permitted to use it in the tour gallery. The tour begins with a short film screening and time to browse exhibits in the entrance hall, followed by a walk-through along galleries above the factory floor. You will see how currency is printed, cut, counted and inspected, learn about security measures to prevent bills being destroyed or counterfeited and be able to ask a docent questions.
Other Considerations
Request accessibility assistance from an on-site docent in the form of wheelchairs, audio tapes or tour guides fluent in sign language. People in wheelchairs and groups of no more than four people may bypass the ticket booth during peak season and go directly to the visitor center. Bring a carrying pack for your infant or toddler since strollers are not permitted on tour. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing is closed on weekends, all federal holidays and the week between Christmas and New Year's Day.
References
Resources
Tips
- Strollers are not permitted on the tour, so bring a carrying pack for your infant or toddler.
Warnings
- The Bureau of Engraving and Printing is closed on weekends, all federal holidays and the week between Christmas and New Year's Day.
Writer Bio
Nikki Jardin began freelance writing in 2009 and focuses on food and travel articles. She has been a professional cook and caterer for more than 20 years. She holds a degree in environmental science from Humboldt State University.
Source: https://traveltips.usatoday.com/tour-bureau-engraving-washington-dc-32552.html
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