National Zoo

3001 Connecticut Ave., NW
Washington, DC

See on Map

nationalzoo.si.edu

Floor Plan

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. | 7 p.m. in summer* (grounds)
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. | 6 p.m. in summer* (most buildings)

*Please check Zoo website for complete details and summer dates.

Open daily, weather permitting, except December 25

Admission is free

About

Always free of charge and open 364 days a year, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo sits on 163 acres in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s Rock Creek Park. Founded in 1889, the Zoo is currently home to more than 2,700 animals representing more than 390 species.

Highlights

Giant pandas, Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers, Aldabra tortoises, Panamanian golden frogs, sea lions, orangutans, meet-a-small-mammal demonstrations, and Asian elephant training.

  • Visitors can enjoy a variety of foods at the Smithsonian's National Zoo, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, at food trucks and stands throughout the park. Please note food truck options and availability are subject to change.

    Group meals can be pre-ordered for 10 or more guests.

    Mane Grill 
    (near Tiger/Lion Hill)
    Angus burgers, chemical- and hormone-free grilled chicken, kids' meals and to-go items.
    10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fall/Winter
    10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Spring/Summer

    Sbarro
    (Panda Plaza)
    Pizza, stromboli, hot dogs, chicken tenders, soft drinks

    Auntie Anne's & Carvel
    (Panda Overlook)
    Soft pretzels, pretzel dogs, frozen lemonade, Carvel ice cream, soft drinks

Metro Stations: Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan or Cleveland Park

Parking at the Zoo is a flat fee of $25. Parking is free for FONZ members at Premier Level and above. See map and get driving directions.

Reserved parking near the museum can be purchased in advance through ParkWhiz.

Note: ParkWhiz is a third-party vendor (ParkWhiz Privacy Policy).