U.S. Mint Philadelphia - the united states mint sign on the side of a building
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U.S. Mint Philadelphia

4.5
·428 reviews·Philadelphia, United States

Discover how U.S. currency is made at the historic Philadelphia Mint. Free tours showcase coin production and fascinating collections.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Higher chance of seeing production

CrowdLow
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U.S. Mint Philadelphia - the united states mint sign on the side of a building

U.S. Mint Philadelphia

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Higher chance of seeing production

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover how U.S. currency is made at the historic Philadelphia Mint. Free tours showcase coin production and fascinating collections.

4.5
(428 reviews)

"A nice free attraction to see how our money is made, with engaging exhibits even if production isn't active."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Pack Light for Security

Be prepared for airport-style security. Bringing fewer items will speed up your entry. :shield:

📸 No Photos Inside

Photography is strictly prohibited within the U.S. Mint facility. Respect the rules to avoid issues. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Coin Manufacturing Floor

Coin Manufacturing Floor

Third Floor Overlook

Witness the real-time process of coin production through glass panels. See dimes and nickels being minted, a fascinating glimpse into currency creation.

Reddit
Mint Collections Exhibit

Mint Collections Exhibit

Explore captivating displays of coins and watch collections, showcasing the history and artistry of U.S. currency.

Reddit
Interactive Exhibits

Interactive Exhibits

Engage with hands-on displays that explain the coin-making process step-by-step, making it educational for all ages.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, But Plan for Security

Entry to the U.S. Mint Philadelphia is free, but be prepared for airport-style security checks. Pack light to expedite the process and avoid bringing large bags. This government building prioritizes security, so factor in extra time for screening before your visit. Reddit

Production Schedules Vary

While you can see coin manufacturing, production isn't guaranteed. Some visitors report seeing dormant machines, while others witness dimes and nickels being made. Exhibits explain the process well, making it educational even without active production. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Higher chance of seeing production
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Free and educational exhibits
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

only had a day to spend in Philly and decided to visit the Philadelphia Magic Gardens!! Sooo pretty & perfect for a date or trip w your family!! #phillytok #philly #traveltok #visitphilly #dateideas
@sprklgirly
27.1K likes • 304.2K views

🎯 Pack Light for Security

Be prepared for airport-style security. Bringing fewer items will speed up your entry. Reddit :shield:

📸 No Photos Inside

Photography is strictly prohibited within the U.S. Mint facility. Respect the rules to avoid issues. Reddit :camerawithflash:

how to spend the perfect day in philly 😁 should i do more of theee videos? #philly #phillythingstodo #photoshootideas #phillytiktok #viral #phillyfoodies #matcha @Coffeezeit @Sampan @Buffalo Exchange
@mekhibrown
24.3K likes • 299.6K views
Yesterdays Trip to the US Mint with our school age Children. The tour covered the present state of coin manufacturing and the history of the Coins. Fun fact🪙; did you know all the coins are proudcued at each US Mint location? Philadelphia happens to have one of four locations. #springbreak #qualitychildcare #qualitychildcarematters #frankforddaycare #welovekids #trips #meals #summercamp
a_colorfulworldlearning_center
7 likes • 298 views

💰 Free Admission

Enjoy a free, educational experience learning about coin manufacturing. A great budget-friendly activity! Reddit :moneywithwings:

⏳ Check Production Schedule

While exhibits are always available, seeing active coin production isn't guaranteed. Reddit :clock1:

Weather was quite unfriendly so I did my best to middle through in a sheen of sweat to as many places as possible. -U.S. Mint -Liberty Bell -Terminal Reading Market for cheesesteak and ice cream -[no go due to storm] Chinatown Lantern Festival And due to a comical mix-up, I ended up renting a lounge at PHX until my flight out to Vermont! #philadelphia #pennsylvania #libertybell #usmintphilade...
ivymere_the_yoobee
23 likes • 327 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Pack Light for Security

Be prepared for airport-style security. Bringing fewer items will speed up your entry. Reddit :shield:

📸 No Photos Inside

Photography is strictly prohibited within the U.S. Mint facility. Respect the rules to avoid issues. Reddit :camerawithflash:

💰 Free Admission

Enjoy a free, educational experience learning about coin manufacturing. A great budget-friendly activity! Reddit :moneywithwings:

⏳ Check Production Schedule

While exhibits are always available, seeing active coin production isn't guaranteed. Reddit :clock1:

🛍️ Visit the Gift Shop

Browse unique coins, collectibles, and souvenirs at the U.S. Mint store. Reddit :gift_heart:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(428 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the U.S. Mint Philadelphia to be a surprisingly interesting and educational free attraction, offering a unique look at coin manufacturing. While some note that seeing active production isn't guaranteed and photography is prohibited, the engaging exhibits and historical collections make it a worthwhile stop for many. The security process is standard for a government building, and the gift shop offers unique souvenirs.

"Great exhibition about United State Mint and Treasury Department asset holding. Unfortunately photos are prohibited inside the building. You need to pass the security check point so don’t carry lot of stuffs if you plan to visit.
I personally highly recommend to see the collections they have. I love it I am gonna revisit in near future.
Mint Collections and watch collections are so attractive."

Peter Jin

"Nice free attraction to see how our money is made. I found it was weird that photography was not allowed especially since the viewing windows keep you away from any sensitive areas. It is a government building so you will need to pass through security to enter."

JD

"It is absolutely amazing to be able to see the whole process of making the coins in real time. You can see the facility up above from the 3rd floor through glass panels. There are no reservations required, and it is a self-guided tour. The US Mint does an excellent job with its exhibits explaining the process step-by-step to point out what you see is happening on the floor.

The mint happened to be producing dimes and nickels during my visit, but even if the mint isn't in production when you visit, don't worry! I feel the exhibits are interactive enough and do a great job at explaining to make sure your visit is worthwhile. Also, there is no photography allowed in the facility. Overall, it was definitely more interesting than I thought it would be, and I would recommend a visit here to anyone visiting Philadelphia."

Matthew Svienty

What People Like

Free admission
Educational exhibits
Coin manufacturing view

What People Dislike

No photography allowed
Production not guaranteed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The U.S. Mint Philadelphia is located at 500 W Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19123. It's accessible via public transportation, including SEPTA buses and trains. Many visitors also walk from nearby attractions like the Liberty Bell. Parking information is limited, so public transit or walking is often recommended. TikTokInstagram

Information on dedicated parking for the U.S. Mint is scarce. Visitors often rely on street parking (which can be difficult to find) or nearby parking garages. Walking from your hotel or other attractions is a common strategy. Reddit

If you're exploring other Philadelphia landmarks, walking is a great option as the Mint is centrally located. Alternatively, SEPTA's public transit system offers convenient bus and subway routes that stop near the Mint. TikTok+1

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Philadelphia and can drop you off near the U.S. Mint. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport or parking. TikTok

Yes, the U.S. Mint is wheelchair accessible, and accommodations are available if needed. The exhibits and tour routes are designed to be navigable for all visitors. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to the U.S. Mint Philadelphia is completely free. You do not need to purchase tickets in advance or upon arrival. Reddit

The U.S. Mint Philadelphia typically operates from Monday to Friday, with hours usually from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit, as they can vary. Reddit

Reservations are generally not required for the U.S. Mint Philadelphia, especially since it's a free, self-guided tour. However, for school groups or larger organized tours, it's advisable to contact them in advance. Reddit

Expect airport-style security screening upon entry. You'll need to go through metal detectors and have your bags checked. It's recommended to bring only essential items to expedite the process. Reddit

While bags are allowed, it's best to pack light. Large bags or backpacks may be subject to more thorough inspection, and carrying fewer items will make the security process smoother. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore exhibits on the history of U.S. currency, see coin collections, and observe the coin manufacturing process from an elevated walkway. Interactive displays explain how coins are made. InstagramReddit

You can see the coin manufacturing process from a third-floor overlook. However, production schedules vary, so you might not always witness active minting. The exhibits provide detailed explanations regardless. Reddit

Yes, the tour at the U.S. Mint Philadelphia is self-guided. You can explore at your own pace along the designated walkways, reading informational signs and viewing exhibits. Reddit

Most visitors spend about an hour at the U.S. Mint, depending on their interest in the exhibits and whether they visit the gift shop. Reddit

While there aren't many 'hidden gems' in the traditional sense, the real thrill is seeing the coin production in action. The detailed exhibits on minting history and the variety of coins in the collection are highlights. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the U.S. Mint facility. This is a common rule in government buildings to protect sensitive areas and processes. Reddit

Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the exterior of the U.S. Mint building. The architecture itself can be quite impressive. TikTok

The prohibition on photography is likely due to security reasons and to protect proprietary information related to coin manufacturing. Even from viewing windows, sensitive equipment or processes might be visible. Reddit

Photography is generally not permitted inside the exhibition areas or the manufacturing overlook. The gift shop area might be an exception, but it's best to confirm with staff. Reddit

You can get good exterior shots of the U.S. Mint building. Nearby Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell also offer excellent photo opportunities. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The U.S. Mint Philadelphia is a fantastic, free educational outing for families. Children can learn about how money is made through interactive exhibits and by observing the coin production process from above. The self-guided tour is easy for kids to follow, and the exhibits are designed to be engaging. InstagramReddit

Key recommendations for families include arriving earlier in the day for potentially more active production, packing light to speed through security, and focusing on the interactive displays. The gift shop also offers fun souvenirs that kids might enjoy. Remember that no photos are allowed inside, so encourage kids to focus on observing and learning. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the U.S. Mint Philadelphia is an absolute must-visit. Admission is free, making it a perfect way to experience a significant piece of American history and industry without spending a dime. Reddit

Tips for budget travelers: Combine your visit with other free attractions nearby, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Utilize public transportation like SEPTA to save on travel costs. Since you can't bring much in, avoid unnecessary purchases and focus on the educational experience. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Coin Production

The U.S. Mint Philadelphia offers a unique opportunity to witness the intricate process of coin manufacturing. Visitors can observe the production floor from an elevated walkway, seeing machines stamp out coins with precision. While the specific coins being produced can vary daily, the exhibits meticulously explain each step, from blanking and striking to finishing and inspection. This self-guided tour provides a fascinating look into how the nation's currency is created. InstagramReddit

It's important to manage expectations regarding seeing active production. Some visitors report seeing dormant machinery, while others are fortunate enough to witness the minting of dimes and nickels. Regardless of whether the machines are running, the educational displays are comprehensive and engaging, ensuring a worthwhile visit. The Mint aims to educate visitors about the history and technology behind coin production, making it an informative experience for all. Reddit

Key takeaways for understanding coin production include the security measures in place, the educational value of the exhibits even without active minting, and the overall efficiency of the self-guided tour. Remember that photography is not allowed inside, so focus on absorbing the information and the visual experience. Reddit

The U.S. Mint Gift Shop

The U.S. Mint Philadelphia features a gift shop offering a variety of unique items related to coinage and U.S. history. Visitors can find special edition coins, commemorative sets, and other collectibles that make for excellent souvenirs. It's a great place to pick up something tangible to remember your visit, especially if you're interested in numismatics (the study or collection of coins). Reddit

While the shop is a popular stop, some visitors have noted that finding specific coins, like state quarters that were recently minted, can be hit or miss. However, the selection of untouched coins and encased sets is generally well-received. It's worth browsing for unique gifts or personal keepsakes that celebrate American currency. Reddit

Pro-tip: If you're looking for specific or rare coins, it might be best to check with the shop staff, though availability can vary. The gift shop provides a nice complement to the educational experience of the tour. TikTokReddit

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