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Discover the Bureau of Engraving & Printing Tour in Texas

The Bureau of Engraving & Printing Tour in Fort Worth, TX, offers visitors a rare glimpse into one of only two facilities in the United States where paper money is printed (the other is in Washington, D.C.). Known locally as the “Money Factory,” the Fort Worth BEP produces billions of dollars in U.S. currency every year.

The free, self-guided tour lets guests view the production floor from elevated walkways, where you can watch sheets of currency being printed, examined, and cut. Informational exhibits explain the history of U.S. money, the art of engraving, and the security features that keep our currency safe. The Visitor Center also offers films, interactive displays, and a gift shop with unique “money-themed” souvenirs.

Why it’s special:
Unlike most factory tours, this one takes you inside a secure federal facility still in operation. You’ll see live currency printing and learn the fascinating mix of art, history, and security that goes into every U.S. bill. It’s a one-of-a-kind educational experience for families, school groups, and curious travelers.

History/Story of the Bureau of Engraving & Printing

The Bureau of Engraving & Printing was founded in 1862 to produce U.S. government securities during the Civil War. Today, it is responsible for designing and printing Federal Reserve Notes, U.S. postage stamps (historically), and other official documents.

The Fort Worth facility opened in 1991 to supplement the Washington, D.C. plant and increase production capacity. Since then, it has become one of the largest and most secure printing operations in the world.

What You’ll See & Do on the BEP Fort Worth Tour

Walk along elevated viewing galleries overlooking live currency production.
Watch sheets of money printed, cut, and inspected in real time.
Explore interactive exhibits about engraving, design, and security features.
View films explaining the history of U.S. money and BEP operations.
Visit the gift shop, offering shredded money souvenirs, currency sets, and collectibles.

Hands-On Elements: Interactive displays, educational videos, tactile currency samples.

Photo/Video Policy: Strictly no photography allowed inside secure production areas; permitted in Visitor Center and outside.

Souvenirs & Extras:

Gift shop with shredded money, uncut currency sheets, and U.S. Mint collectibles

Pricing of Bureau of Engraving & Printing Tour

Admission: Free
No reservations required for most groups under 10

Practical Info for Visiting BEP Fort Worth

Duration: ~45 minutes to 1 hour
Format: Self-guided tour along secure viewing galleries + Visitor Center exhibits
Schedule & Seasonality: Open Tues–Fri, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM (closed weekends, federal holidays, and last two weeks of December)
Audience: Families, students, school groups, history and finance enthusiasts
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible; elevators available for galleries
Safety & Restrictions:

Airport-style security screening required
No bags, cameras, or electronic devices allowed in secure areas
Children welcome but must remain with adults

Languages: English; printed materials available in Spanish and other languages
Group & School Visits: Group tours welcome; buses accommodated with advance notice

What to Bring/Wear: Valid ID, comfortable walking shoes; leave bags/cameras behind
Facilities: Visitor Center, exhibits, theater, restrooms, free parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed weekends, major federal holidays, and late December for maintenance

Location & Booking for Bureau of Engraving & Printing Tour

Getting There: Free onsite parking; accessible via I-35W, ~25 minutes north of downtown Fort Worth
Booking: No reservations required for individuals/families; large groups should call ahead
Cancellation & Refunds: Not applicable (free admission)
On-Site Extras: Gift shop, educational theater, visitor exhibits