Visit the Zoo

Admission Is Free!

Know Before You Arrive

Zoo Map and Guides

See the map for a guide to your next Zoo adventure.

Exhibits

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.

Events

See the list of special events happening at the Zoo.

Accessibility and Sensory Information

The Smithsonian's National Zoo is committed to providing inclusive experiences for all audiences.

A roseate spoonbill peers into the water in the Amazonia exhibit.

Entering the Zoo

The Zoo is free, but Entry Passes are required for all guests, including infants. 

Traveling with a big group? Reserve passes for your group of 16 or more.

Today's Hours

Grounds Open: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Last entry is 5 p.m.

Exhibit Buildings Open: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Last admittance to exhibits is 30 minutes before closing.

Location

Whether taking the Metro, driving or walking, getting to the Zoo is easy!

The Zoo's main entrance is located at:

3001 Connecticut Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20011


Daily Animal Demos

Get a front-row seat to keepers working with animals in these daily demonstrations! Throughout the day, you can meet elephants, watch sloth bears slurp ants, see sea lions catch fish and more. 

A sea lion demo at the Smithsonian's National Zoo
Upcoming Today
There are no more Animal Demos scheduled for the rest of the day.
All Animal Demos


Additional Experiences

Attractions

Planning a visit to the Smithsonian's National Zoo? Don't miss these exciting attractions throughout the park.

Food & Shopping

The Smithsonian's National Zoo offers a variety of dining and shopping options located throughout the park.

Safety and Park Rules

The Smithsonian's National Zoo is a wonderful place to explore, learn and have fun. These few rules help ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for all visitors.

FAQ's

Yes! Admission to the Zoo is free, but entry passes are required. Reserve entry passes here.

 

Free entry passes and paid parking passes should be reserved in advance through the online system. A limited amount of same-day passes will be offered at Zoo entrances for visitors without access to the online system. To reserve a pass, see the Entry Passes (tickets) page.

Members can show their member card for walk-in entry to the Zoo, no passes needed. Parking requires a reservation.

If you plan to drive and park at the Zoo, you must reserve a Paid Parking Pass online before your visit. Parking is available for a flat rate of $30, and spaces are extremely limited. All cars must enter through the main vehicle entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave, NW.

To reserve your parking pass, visit our reservation page.

Yes! Both Metro Bus and Metro Rail have stops within walking distance of the Zoo's main pedestrian entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW.

For more information, visit our Parking and Directions page.