Exchanging American dollars for foreign currency?

Where would be the nearest place I could exchange US dollars for foreign currency other than the airport? I leave quite far from the nearest large airport.

Public Comments

1. What about the nearest bank near to you!
2. A friend of mine recently went to Ireland and she said she exchanged her money there at a local bank, as it gave the best rate. Also, she advised to not carry $100 bills, as they are too easy to counterfeit and most banks are reluctant to take them. If you are bringing American currency, keep the bills small. Another friend who traveled to Germany said she didn't exchange any currency - she just put her credit card into the machine at the airport to get the money she needed. I guess you could do it that way but I would go with exchanging at a bank.