Stock exchanges are government-regulated facilities where individuals are able to buy and sell securities. The three main stock exchanges are the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), the American Stock Exchange (AMEX) and the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation (NASDAQ). There are no official public tours of the stock exchange as of 2010. Only the NYSE had an official tour procedure; however, after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, public tours were discontinued. The AMEX and the NASDAQ also do not have tour guidelines.
There are no official tours because a "seat" on a stock exchange costs a considerable amount of money. A "seat" on a stock exchange allows an individual to buy and sell securities on the floor of the exchange. As of 2005, a seat on the NYSE cost up to $3,550,000. However, there are ways to receive a tour from these exchanges.
Take a self-guided tour of the outside of the buildings. Pick up a brochure of the stock exchanges at 20 Broad Street at Wall Street. There are many historical artifacts with descriptions on the outside of the exchanges. All three stock exchanges are located in New York City: The NYSE and AMEX are located at 11 Wall Street, and the NASDAQ is at One Liberty Plaza, 165 Broadway.
Pay for a tour of the outside of the building. There are dozens of companies that provide tours around the three stock exchanges. They provide pamphlets and the tour guide is usually knowledgeable about the facilities.
Contact an acquaintance, friend or family member who owns a seat on a stock exchange. Upon buying a seat on the stock exchange, individuals are given free "guest passes." This allows anyone to walk around the stock exchange under the seat-holder's name.
Pay for a guided tour inside the stock exchange. Many companies in New York provide guided tours under an experienced trader. Note: these tours cost a considerable amount of money.
