A Must-Visit Attration
The Smithsonian's National Zoo is the main zoo in Washington, DC. Here are the key details about visiting:
- Location: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
- Hours: Open daily 8 AM to 6 PM (March 15-Sept 15) or 8 AM to 4 PM (Sept 16-March 14)
- Admission: Free. It's worth noting for many of these events, while admission is free, visitors are required to reserve entry passes in advance online.
- Size: 163 acres with over 2,100 animals representing nearly 400 species
- Notable animals: Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers, sea lions, orangutans
- Accessibility: Accessible via Metrorail (Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan or Cleveland Park stations)
- Dining options: Several cafes and food trucks available throughout the park
- Shopping: Gift shops located in the Visitor Center, Panda Plaza, and near the Great Cats exhibit
The National Zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution and serves as both a zoo and a global research/conservation center. It's a popular attraction in DC, offering visitors the chance to see a wide variety of animals in naturalistic habitats. The zoo also offers live streaming webcams of some animals, including black-footed ferrets, elephants, lions, and naked mole-rats.
For those interested in special events or educational opportunities, the zoo offers self-guided tours, keeper talks, and interactive experiences like the Kids' Farm.