Search results
The Smithsonian's National Zoo is home to more than 2,200 animals. Find out where to see your favorite animals, like Komodo dragons at Reptile Discovery Center or red pandas on Asia Trail.
May 14, 2024 · Always free of charge, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo is one of Washington D.C.’s, and the Smithsonian’s, most popular tourist destinations, with more than 2 million visitors from all over the world each year.
The National Zoological Park, commonly known as the National Zoo, is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. The zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution and does not charge admission. Founded in 1889, its mission is to "provide engaging experiences with animals and create and share knowledge to save wildlife and habitats".
The 163-acre park in the heart of Washington, D.C., is home to approximately 4,000 animals representing nearly 400 species. Almost a quarter of the animals at the National Zoo are endangered species, including, Asian elephants, North Island brown kiwis and western lowland gorillas.
Hours. The Zoo is open every day, except Dec. 25. Grounds Open: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; last admittance is at 5 p.m. Exhibit Buildings Open: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (summer) / 4 p.m. (winter) Please note: last admittance to exhibit buildings is 30 minutes before closing. Reserve Passes. Group Passes.
The zoo, which occupies about 76 hectares (187 acres), has approximately 5,000 specimens of more than 500 species. It has developed one of the world’s finest collections of small mammals and became famous for breeding pygmy hippopotamuses.
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.
