If you are visiting Boston's Seaport redevelopment, you can explore the Museum of American Finance, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution dedicated to preserving, exhibiting, and teaching about American financial history. Originally founded in 1987 in response to that year's stock market crash, this independent public museum opened its first permanent exhibition space since 2018 in Boston on July 3, 2026. You will find that admission is completely free, making it an accessible stop on your itinerary.
Inside, you will discover fascinating exhibits that highlight Boston’s unique role in the nation's financial past while showcasing Boston-related items from an extensive collection. The museum holds more than 10,000 artifacts and documents, including historic share certificates, bonds, prints, engravings, photographs, bank notes, checks, and rare books. When you tour the galleries, you can examine permanent exhibitions centered on money, banking, financial markets, entrepreneurship, and Alexander Hamilton.
Whether you are interested in historical market events, early currency, or the legacy of foundational figures, you can experience a rich, educational dive into the economic story of the United States.
What to see at Museum of American Finance
- Smithsonian Institution affiliate with over 10,000 financial documents and artifacts
- Free admission located in Boston's Seaport redevelopment
- Exhibits highlighting Boston's specific role in national financial history
- Permanent displays dedicated to Alexander Hamilton, money, banking, and entrepreneurship
- Interactive public programming including walking tours, film screenings, and lecture series
Visiting tips
Consider visiting during the day to attend one of the museum's Lunch and Learn Series presentations featuring lunchtime talks and demonstrations.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Lunchtime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Museum of American Finance is easy to reach on Boston’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Museum of Fine Arts Boston and John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Boston travel guide.
See the full Boston travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.