Smithsonian's National Zoo
Explore diverse wildlife from around the globe at this renowned, free-admission zoo in Washington D.C.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Smithsonian's National Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore diverse wildlife from around the globe at this renowned, free-admission zoo in Washington D.C.
"The zoo was great! Pandas were the highlight of the day!"
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Expect to walk 5+ miles uphill and downhill. Comfortable footwear is essential!
💧 Bring a Water Bottle
Refill stations are plentiful, and misting stations offer relief on hot days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Pandas
Asia Trail
Meet Bao Li and his family! These beloved bears are a major draw, so be prepared for potential lines.
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Elephant Trails
Elephant Trails Exhibit
Observe the multigenerational Asian elephant herd and learn about their care and enrichment activities.
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Great Ape House
Great Ape House
See gorillas and orangutans in their thoughtfully designed habitats.
Bird House
Bird House
Explore the newly renovated Bird House, featuring a diverse array of avian species.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Smart Parking & Metro Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Expect to walk 5+ miles uphill and downhill. Comfortable footwear is essential!
💧 Bring a Water Bottle
Refill stations are plentiful, and misting stations offer relief on hot days.
🐼 Panda Line Strategy
The panda exhibit is popular. Check live webcams or visit early to minimize wait times.
🍎 Pack Your Own Snacks
You can bring your own food and drinks, saving money and offering more options.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Expect to walk 5+ miles uphill and downhill. Comfortable footwear is essential!
💧 Bring a Water Bottle
Refill stations are plentiful, and misting stations offer relief on hot days.
🐼 Panda Line Strategy
The panda exhibit is popular. Check live webcams or visit early to minimize wait times.
🍎 Pack Your Own Snacks
You can bring your own food and drinks, saving money and offering more options.
🎟️ Free Tickets Needed
Admission is free, but you must reserve timed-entry tickets online in advance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Smithsonian's National Zoo for its free admission, diverse animal collection, and family-friendly atmosphere. Highlights include the popular pandas and well-maintained exhibits. Some find the extensive walking and potential for long lines, especially for pandas and gorillas on weekends, to be drawbacks.
"The zoo was great! There were water stations where u can fill your own bottle and they also had mist stations of your body needed to cool off. Lots of bathrooms and food areas. The set up was easy to navigate and there was a great selection of animals. No petting area though for the kids. However a few playgrounds. I enjoyed it! Pandas were the highlight of the day!"
Carrie R
"We visited the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, DC over the weekend and had a wonderful time with family and friends! 🐼 The giant panda was definitely the main attraction and a must-see.
A few tips for anyone planning a visit:
Get your parking pass in advance – it saves a lot of time and stress.
Be prepared for a lot of walking uphill and downhill (easily up to 5 miles), so wear comfortable shoes.
Bring a water bottle – there are plenty of refill stations around the zoo, which was super helpful.
There are many shops and restrooms conveniently located throughout the park.
Because it was a very hot day, some animals were harder to spot, but we still enjoyed exploring the exhibits and had a fun picnic together. Overall, it was a great experience for all ages, and we’d definitely recommend it for a family outing!"
Mithlesh Kumar Temre
"Practical Tips & Honest Impressions
Last Saturday, 7/19/2025, we debated whether to drive, but the $30 parking passes had already sold out by 7:30 a.m. With a three-year-old in tow, we switched to the Metro. Pro-tip: ride past Woodley Park–Zoo/Adams Morgan to Cleveland Park station; the extra distance is downhill and far easier on little legs (and tired adults) than the four-block uphill climb from the first stop.
Entry was seamless, mobile tickets scanned in seconds and there was no queue. We later learned you can bring your own food, so next time we’ll pack a cooler. On-site prices are reasonable, and every stand takes cards, but nothing beats homemade snacks (PB&J, fruit snacks, etc.)
Expect a lot of walking. Wear supportive, comfortable shoes and, in summer, lightweight clothes and sunscreen. Mist stations dot the grounds and offer welcome relief from the heat. Benches and spotless restrooms are plentiful, making breaks with kids hassle-free.
The panda line was the only bottleneck (about 30 minutes). If a must-see animal is hiding, check the Zoo’s live webcams beforehand, you’ll still get your panda fix.
Overall, the park is clean, family-friendly, and thoughtfully laid out. My advice:
If possible, buy a parking pass early and use your car as a picnic base.
Pack lunch, water, and a small umbrella for shade.
Get there early to beat crowds and afternoon heat.
A little planning turns a great outing into an effortless one, highly recommended for families, especially first-time visitors."
Spencer Gates
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the zoo via car or public transportation. Parking passes can be purchased online in advance, but they sell out quickly. The Metro is a convenient option; consider exiting at Cleveland Park station for a mostly downhill walk to the zoo, which is easier than the uphill climb from Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan.
Yes, parking is available, but it's highly recommended to purchase a parking pass online in advance as it often sells out by early morning, especially on weekends.
For families with young children, taking the Metro to Cleveland Park station is often recommended due to the downhill walk. If driving, arriving very early to secure parking is key.
Yes, ride-sharing services are a viable option. There are designated drop-off and pick-up points near the zoo entrances. This can be a good alternative if parking is unavailable or if you prefer not to drive.
Several Metrobus routes stop near the zoo. Check the WMATA website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules that serve the National Zoo area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While admission to the Smithsonian's National Zoo is free, you are required to reserve timed-entry tickets online in advance. This helps manage crowd flow.
The zoo typically opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 4:00 PM, but hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's always best to check the official Smithsonian's National Zoo website for the most current hours.
No, tickets must be reserved online in advance. There are no on-site ticket sales. Ensure you book your timed-entry passes before your visit.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially shortly after opening. Weekends and holidays tend to be much busier, particularly around the panda exhibit.
The zoo often hosts special events, including seasonal celebrations like ZooLights during the holidays. Check their website for a schedule of current and upcoming events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The giant pandas, Bao Li and his family, are a major highlight. Other popular animals include elephants, gorillas, orangutans, lions, and cheetahs.
Yes, a map of the Smithsonian National Zoo is available on their official website and often provided at the entrance. It's helpful for planning your route and locating exhibits.
Yes, there are several food and drink locations throughout the zoo offering a variety of options. You can also bring your own food and drinks to enjoy.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is permitted and can be a great way to save money and cater to specific dietary needs.
Yes, the zoo has a few playgrounds, offering children a place to play and burn off energy.
📸 📸 Photography
The panda enclosure, elephant trails, and the various primate exhibits offer excellent photo opportunities. Early morning light can be ideal for capturing clear shots.
Yes, smartphones are perfect for capturing memories at the zoo. Many visitors share their photos and videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check the zoo's guidelines if you plan extensive shoots.
Most animals offer great photo opportunities, from the majestic lions and tigers to the playful primates and colorful birds. The pandas are always a crowd-pleaser for photos. +1
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer lighting and more active animals. Some animals may be less visible during the hottest parts of the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families include arriving early to beat crowds and the heat, bringing plenty of snacks and drinks, and wearing comfortable shoes for the extensive walking. Consider the Metro's Cleveland Park station for an easier walk with little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, utilize public transportation like the Metro, or if driving, secure a parking pass online well in advance. Packing your own lunch, snacks, and water bottles is highly recommended, as on-site food prices can add up.
🐾 Service Animal Handlers
Be aware that some areas might have specific guidelines for service animals due to the proximity of other animals or sensitive exhibits. Planning your route and understanding these potential limitations can help make your visit enjoyable and stress-free.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Star Attraction: Pandas at the Smithsonian National Zoo
Be prepared for potential queues to enter the panda viewing area. Some visitors suggest checking the zoo's live webcams before your visit to gauge their activity and minimize wait times.
It's important to note that the pandas' residency at the zoo has been a topic of discussion, with some visitors noting their departure in December.
Navigating the Zoo: Walking, Amenities, and Comfort
To combat the elements, especially during warmer months, the zoo provides misting stations throughout the grounds, offering welcome relief from the heat. Water refill stations are also readily available, so bringing a reusable water bottle is highly recommended.
While the zoo is free to enter, planning for your visit can enhance the experience. Purchasing a parking pass online in advance is crucial, as they sell out early. Alternatively, the Metro system offers a convenient way to reach the zoo, with specific station recommendations for an easier approach.
Conservation and Education at the Zoo
Educational opportunities abound, from behind-the-scenes tours for aspiring conservationists to learning about the biology and behavior of various species. The zoo's efforts extend to initiatives like 'Bird-Friendly Cocoa,' highlighting the connection between consumer choices and wildlife habitats.
+1Visitors can learn about the challenges facing wildlife and the zoo's role in addressing them. Exhibits are designed to be informative, offering insights into the natural behaviors and ecological importance of each animal. This focus on conservation makes a visit both entertaining and enlightening.
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