Economics in Action: Museums Where Learning is Fun for Everyone

We often drift to art, history, or science exhibits when we think of museums. However, economics, a subject that shapes our daily lives, can also be experienced hands-on and engagingly. This idea has come to life in physical museums where families can explore the fascinating world of economics together, just as they might at a science museum. The Interactive Museum of Economics (MIDE) in Mexico City and the St. Louis Fed’s Economy Museum in the United States are two outstanding examples.

Photo: UChicago Economics Experience Museum

Interactive Museum of Economics (MIDE), located in the heart of Mexico City, is an innovative space dedicated entirely to economics, finance, and sustainability. Designed with interactivity in mind, this museum offers a variety of exhibits where kids and adults alike can explore how money works, the impact of economic decisions, and the importance of sustainability in a fun and engaging environment. With hands-on activities and interactive displays, MIDE transforms what might seem like complex concepts into understandable and enjoyable experiences for the whole family.

Meanwhile, in St. Louis, the Federal Reserve Bank’s Economy Museum provides another dynamic space where visitors can dive into the workings of the economy. This museum is designed to make economics accessible and exciting, featuring interactive exhibits explaining inflation, unemployment, and monetary policy. Kids can even see what a million dollars looks like! The museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the economic forces that impact our lives in a way that’s both educational and entertaining.

These museums are shining examples of how economics can be brought to life, making the subject accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages. Families can spend a fun afternoon learning about the economy in a hands-on environment in Mexico City or St. Louis, proving that economics is just as exciting to explore as any other discipline.

If you’re interested in experiencing economics in an educational and engaging way, much like science museums do, there are several places around the world where you can do just that. In the United States, you can visit the University of Chicago’s Chicago Economics Experience Museum or the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago Money Museum, both of which offer interactive exhibits. The Museum of American Finance in New York City also provides a fascinating look at the history of finance. If you’re in Mexico, the Banco de México Museum in Mexico City is a great place to explore the role of money in society.

In Asia, you can visit the China Finance Museum in Tianjin and Beijing or the Shanghai Financial Museum. These two museums explore the history and development of finance in China. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority Information Centre also looks into Hong Kong’s financial system.

In Europe, institutions like the Bank of England Museum in London and Adam Smith’s Panmure House in Edinburgh, Scotland, provide insights into the economic history of the UK. The Karl Marx House in Trier, Germany, is another destination for those interested in the history of economic thought.

If any of these pique your interest, feel free to click on the links below for more information: