Located in the heart of Manhattan’s financial district, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York offers free tours to visitors. The tours provide a comprehensive introduction to the banking system of the United States and highlight the important role of “The Fed” in the U.S. economy. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to view the Gold Vault situated five stories below street level. The building itself is a stunning example of architecture, featuring detailed wrought ironwork combined with elements reminiscent of the Renaissance palaces of Florence.

About Federal Reserve Bank of New York

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York represents one of the 12 regional banks in the Federal Reserve System. Its principal functions include implementing monetary policy, supervising financial institutions, and ensuring the smooth operation of the nation’s payment systems. It is widely regarded as the most influential of the 12 regional banks, largely due to New York City’s status as a global financial capital.

Situated at 33 Liberty Street, the building occupies a full city block in the Financial District, at the southern tip of Manhattan. The structure was constructed from 1919 to 1924 and boasts 14 stories along with five additional underground levels. Its exterior draws inspiration from Italian Renaissance architecture, and many U.S. banks have attempted to emulate its beauty.

What You’ll See on the Tour

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore its Gold Vault and learn about the Federal Reserve System’s significant contributions to the U.S. economy.

Upon clearing security, visitors can explore “Drachmas, Doubloons and Dollars: The History of Money,” an exhibition that showcases over 800 coins from the American Numismatic Society’s collection, spanning an impressive 3,000 years. One particularly noteworthy item is the 1933 Double Eagle coin, which has a face value of $20 but sold at auction for over $7 million.

Your tour guide will lead you through a series of interactive exhibits, including a display of a gold bar and shredded $100 bills, providing insights into how money is produced in the United States.

Although cash processing does not occur at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, a brief video illustrates the cash processing procedure at the Federal Reserve, detailing how new currency is introduced to circulation while older bills are methodically destroyed.

The highlight of the tour takes place five stories below street level in the Gold Vault, where you’ll discover that much of the bank’s gold is owned by foreign central banks and international monetary institutions.

As you navigate the tour, take time to appreciate the bank’s exquisite architecture, noting the elements inspired by Renaissance palaces and the intricate wrought ironwork.

Planning Your Visit

Reservations are essential for tours at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. While visitors without a reservation can explore the museum, they will not have access to the Gold Vault. For scheduling tours, please refer to making reservations online. Should any queries arise, you can reach them by email at frbnytours@ny.frb.org or phone at 212-720-6130 for immediate assistance regarding availability.

Keep in mind that there is generally a wait of 3-4 weeks for tickets; hence, it is advisable to contact them once you have finalized your travel plans to secure your spot.

Tours typically last around an hour, beginning on the hour from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on a daily basis.

Security at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York

To ensure a smooth experience, arrive approximately 10-15 minutes before your scheduled tour to complete the security process. All visitors are required to pass through a metal detector and have their bags x-rayed before entering the building. Additionally, visitors must lock away their cameras, backpacks, and any other packages they bring along prior to tour commencement.

Please note that no note-taking or photographs are permitted during the tour.

Federal Reserve Bank of New York Basics

• Phone: 212-720-6130
• Subway: R to Rector Street; A/C, 4/5, 2/3, J/M/Z to Fulton Street
• Hours: Open Monday-Friday, excluding bank holidays; public access only with tour reservations.
• Website: http://www.newyorkfed.org
• Admission: Admission is free, but advanced reservations are required at least five business days prior.