Special Tours

Behind-the-Scenes Elephant Trails Tours

Friends of the National Zoo is proud to offer tours of Elephant Trails, featuring the state-of-the-art Barn and another vantage point. The Barn is not open to visitors, so this tour is the only way to see this impressive and fascinating facility. From its multiple elephant suites featuring truly innovative features to its green design features, this facility should be seen by all fans of elephants and the Zoo. Your attendance will help give Asian elephants enrichment. more

Snore & Roar

Have you ever woken up next to a lion? (Spouses don’t count.) Now, you can! After an evening snack and an exploration of an animal house or exhibit area, led by a Zoo keeper, participants hike through the Zoo with flashlights for a nocturnal tour, then camp underneath the stars. Then they rise to the morning rumbles and warbles of the animals, and enjoy a morning activity and continental breakfast. more

Conservation Campout

There is a place where it's possible to hear the call of a native red fox on the chase and the scream of a brown kiwi stalking worm—a place where nature meets science. Take in the beauty of the Shenandoah Mountains while enjoying a rare glimpse of the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute’s headquarters (SCBI) in Front Royal, Virginia, which is usually closed to the public. Enjoy a special a keeper-led tour, a campfire under the stars. Bunk in tents provided by FONZ, then rise for breakfast and a family-friendly activity. more

Bird Walks at the Zoo

The grounds of the National Zoo attract a wide variety of resident and migratory bird species throughout the year. Bird House keeper Debi Talbott will host a bird walk on Zoo grounds one Saturday morning a month. So if you’re new to birding or already an expert join us to learn more about the fascinating world of birds! more

Birthday Parties

FONZ Household members have the opportunity to throw a wild birthday celebration at the Zoo. An engaging walking tour of selected Zoo exhibits led by FONZ staff. The Zoo tour is fun and educational for all party-goers. Parties are held on weekends throughout the year. more

Adopt a Species

The Adopt a Species program helps support the care of 2,000 animals at the National Zoo and its campus in Front Royal, Virginia. Adopt a Species also makes a great gift for a great cause. Those who adopt at the $1,000 level enjoy a guided tour of the exhibit of the adopted species. more