From Rachel Cooper,
Your Guide to Washington, DC.
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The National Zoo, Washington DC's 163-acre zoological park set within the Rock Creek National Park, features more than 400 different species of animals. The National Zoo is a part of the Smithsonian Institution and admission is FREE! (There is a fee however, for parking in Zoo lots.)

To see all of the animals and exhibits at the National Zoo takes several hours. You should pick up a map and plan ahead so that you don't miss any of your family's favorite animals. Among some of the favorites are giant pandas, other bears, lions, giraffes, tigers, monkeys, sea lions, and much more.
Visiting the National Zoo involves a lot of walking. You should dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. To avoid crowds, arrive early in the day or after 2 p.m. Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends, and fall and winter are less crowded than spring and summer.

Photos of Animals at the National Zoo

Lions
Asian Elephants
Animals at the New Asia Trail
Tiger Cubs
Panda Cub, Tai Shan
Adult Pandas, Tian Tian and Mei Xiang
Cheetah Cubs

Address

3001 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20008

There are two entrances at the east side of the Zoo, near Rock Creek Park. One is off Rock Creek Parkway, the other is at the intersection of Harvard Street and Adams Mill Road.

Closest Metro Station to the National Zoo

Woodley Park/ Zoo /Adams Morgan stop and the Cleveland Park stop.

Parking at the National Zoo

Parking in the zoo lots costs $4 for the first hour, $12 for two to three hours, and $16 for more than three hours. If you are a FONZ member, parking is free. If you do not mind a short walk, you can usually find free street parking nearby.

Hours

The National Zoo is open every day of the year except December 25.
October 30 to April 1: Grounds are open 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Buildings are open 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
April 2 to October 29: Grounds are open 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. Buildings are open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Food and Shopping

Food concessions offer burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken sandwiches, salads, ice cream, hot pretzels and other snack foods. Snack stands are scattered throughout the park. Visitors may bring their own food and drinks.

The National Zoo Store offers a great selection of gift items including apparel, hats, toys and games, books, videos and jewelry. You may also shop online.

Official Web Site

http://nationalzoo.si.edu

Special Programs at the National Zoo

Daily programs at the zoo include animal training, feeding demonstrations, and keeper talks. The National Zoo offers some great special programs throughout the year. See page 2 for information about special events at the National Zoo.