Chicago - Currency
ATMs are available in many parts of Chicago - ensure you inform your bank before travelling abroad, and be aware you may be charged for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to exchange some cash before arriving in Chicago.Visit the other Chicago city guide sections to get more detailed travel advice, and information on the best Chicago attractions and sightseeing activities, recommended shops and restaurants, as well as the best Chicago hotels.
Chicago - Notes and Coins
Currency Exchange
There is good news and bad news when it comes to currency in the greater Chicago area. The good news is that changing your money here is simple, either at your hotel, at a local bank anywhere in the downtown core or at a designated money exchange business. The bad news is that American dollars are the only thing accepted here, and that can be more than a little confusing for some visitors from other countries. Despite improvements in how American money looks, all of the bills are the same size, and essentially the same color. If you have vision issues, you may want to get some money before you head to the US to get used to the way it looks and feels.
American currency traveler’s checks are accepted just about everywhere and are always a good idea to get since you can replace them if they are lost. Avoid changing money at banks as they often have the worst rates. Choose a TravelEx Money Exchange parlor instead, but watch for fees.
Banks
Banks are located around the city, and most are open between the hours of nine and five each weekday. Some have hours on Saturday mornings as well. Most have ATMs conveniently located outside if you need cash.
Chase Bank and ATM - (312) 829-6250 - 1340 S Canal St, Chicago, IL
Bank of America - (312) 573-3460 - 1590 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL
National City Bank - (312) 225-4427 - 1733 S Clark St, Chicago, IL
Bank of America - (773) 667-0408 - 1439 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL
Bank of America - (773) 880-1500 - 538 W Diversey Pky, Chicago, IL
Bank of America - (312) 904-2880 - 100 S Wacker Dr, #300, Chicago, IL
Chase Bank and ATM - (773) 281-5700 - 3032 N Clark St, Chicago, IL
Bank of America - (312) 849-1200 - 33 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL
Fifth Third Bank - (312) 396-4300 - 222 Merchandise Mart Plz, Chicago, IL
Wamu Bank and ATM - (312) 726-1178 - 206 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL