We live in this place that has everything. Stuff blocking other stuff that you didn’t even know was there. How much do we actually see? Did you know Fort Worth is home to the only government facility outside of Washington, D.C. that prints U.S. paper money? Who’s the artist? Why is it green? Is there really a million dollar bill? Find out for yourself without sacrificing a single note from your wallet. I’m Elle. Life’s short. Let’s pile in and go do stuff.
Fort Worth Bureau of Engraving and Printing
See baby cash being born? I can think of worse ways to spend an afternoon. Dad was in town for the 2024 total solar eclipse and it was the most interesting thing open at a time when both my dad and boyfriend were available for some awkward family time. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing sounded just geeky enough to keep us all mildly entertained. (Er…distracted?) In the very least it would be an improvement on sitting around a table interrogating each other. Plus FREE entry!
Getting in was an ordeal–be prepared to leave your phone in the car. Security did move us through relatively fast and soon we’d fully embarked on our self-guided tour, wide-eyed in awe watching from above the cash factory as a bazillion (<–made up) specialized mechanical arms, presses, and belts harmoniously crafted what I now see as beautiful art pieces–to the tune of BILLIONS of dollars annually (<–not made up.) It’s like Willy Wonka’s factory, but the tickets are green and there are no free samples.
Look closely at the money in your wallet. The bills printed on Blue Mound Road display a proud “FW” in the design! Carve out a couple hours for this one. A very pleasant surprise. Where else can you watch millions of dollars being printed without the FBI getting involved? Fascinating. And yes, they hit you with a gift shop where you can use your own money to buy…wait for it…money. (Cooler than it sounds, actually.) Highly recommend.
Also I lied about the awkwardness. Those two are like peas and carrots. Excellent afternoon.
Fort Worth Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Roll on friends!
Elle
Ranch Mornings on 95.9 The Ranch