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Smithsonian National Zoological Park

3001 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington, District of Columbia

Description

The National Zoological Park is a Smithsonian Institution with its largest campus in the northwest of Washington DC - which is the one being reviewed here. It was founded in 1889, making it one of the oldest zoos in the USA. The facility houses about 2,000 animals, many of which are endangered or threatened. Among others, there are great apes, big cats, giant pandas, reptiles, birds and elephants.

Access & Transport

The zoo is located at Rock Creek Park, 5km northwest of downtown Washington DC. The main entrance is on 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW with another pedestrian access from Harvard Street Bridge. The Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan metro station (Red line) is just over 5mins walk away. Parking is $30 per car Accessibility info: https://nationalzoo.si.edu/visit/accessibility-and-sensory-information

Instructions & Recommendations

Admission is free but entry passes (not timed) are required for all guests, including infants. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance

Meta review

Online reviewers overall tend to describe the zoo as good and enjoyable without being exceptional - clearly not one of the most impressive in the country despite the 'National' epithet. As expected, it is popular with family and the highlights for many are the pandas and the free admission! It is deemed to be clean and well maintained and the only drawback (according to a minority) is the hilly layout.

Environmental & Social

The zoo / Smithsonian Institute is involved in conservation aspects (https://nationalzoo.si.edu/conservation) that partially compensates for the keeping of animals in captivity. Some educational programs with schools as well.

Conclusion

The National Zoological Park is one of the best zoos in the region around Washington DC and makes for an excellent family outing, especially since it is free, and/or a good variation in a city rich in cultural attractions, provided you are comfortable with the concept of animals being held in captivity.

Key positive

Grounds are quite extensive

Excellent family activity

Key negative

The concept of zoos is debatable

Suitability

Wheelchair accessible but the terrain is hilly

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in August 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Last admission 1h before closing. Closed on 25 Dec.

av. transport time:0h 30m

est. visit time:2h 30m

Regulated hours

Start of Season 1:Mar, 15

Season 1

MONDAY08:00 - 18:00

TUESDAY08:00 - 18:00

WEDNESDAY08:00 - 18:00

THURSDAY08:00 - 18:00

FRIDAY08:00 - 18:00

SATURDAY08:00 - 18:00

SUNDAY08:00 - 18:00

Start of Season 2:Sep, 15

Season 2

MONDAY08:00 - 16:00

TUESDAY08:00 - 16:00

WEDNESDAY08:00 - 16:00

THURSDAY08:00 - 16:00

FRIDAY08:00 - 16:00

SATURDAY08:00 - 16:00

SUNDAY08:00 - 16:00

Pricing
Free

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