Bureau of Engraving and Printing

NATIONAL MALL. This is among Washington's most popular tours. It begins with a documentary, then allows visitors to witness each phase of production and printing. Around-the-clock production generates more than $450 million daily, along with other items such as White House invitations and postage stamps. Exhibits feature bills no longer in use, counterfeit money, and a $100,000 bill. The Visitors Center offers informative exhibits, videos, a display of one million $1 bills, and a gift shop. The tour is free, but during the peak summer months, same day timed-entry tickets are required and are available on a first-come-first-served basis. The ticket booth opens at 8am, and closes when all the day's tickets are gone (usually about 9am). Get in line early! METRO: Smithsonian