How to Visit the National Zoo

The National Zoo is a large zoo in Washington, D.C., that is part of the Smithsonian Institute. The zoo covers over 160 acres and is situated within the Rock Creek National Park. You will find over 2,000 animals in the zoo.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Know where you're going. The National Zoo is located at 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008.

2. Pay only for parking. The National Zoo, like other Smithsonian Institute attractions, is free to visit. You only have to pay a nominal hourly rate to park in their lot.

3. Use a zoo map to get around the property. You can pick one up at the zoo, or print one out at home ahead of time. This helps you find all of the animals and attractions that you wish to visit.

4. See the zoo's giant pandas. There is a Giant Panda Habitat at the National Zoo that houses two giant pandas and their cub.

5. Visit the numerous elephants located at the zoo. The Elephant House holds three Asian elephants, hippos and several capybaras. The zoo is planning an exhibit called Elephant Trails that will house numerous elephants in a natural environment.

6. Bring your own picnic lunch. Outside food and beverages are permitted at the National Zoo. However, there are vendors that offer food service throughout the grounds.

7. Pick up a zoo souvenir. Since you didn't have to pay admission, you can use the extra cash to pick up a souvenir from the National Zoo. Buy mugs, stuffed animals, key chains and more at the Zoo Store.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have small children, you can rent both single and double strollers for use during your visit.
• The National Zoo offers several programs that allow visitors to contribute to wildlife conservation. They take old cell phones for donation as well as monetary contributions.
• The zoo opens at 6 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. April through October and at 8 p.m. from November to March.

Resources

• Find out additional information from the National Zoo website.