Celebrate the holidays at ZooLights! Enjoy bright lights and a festive atmosphere as this beloved winter classic returns to the Smithsonian's National Zoo.
In the Company of Pandas with Dr. Brandie Smith ›
Join Zoo Director Dr. Brandie Smith for a special conversation before the release of her new book.
ZooLights Member Nights ›
Zoo members get up to six free tickets on exclusive ZooLights evenings. Not a member? Join today!
LATEST STORIES
Birders and Biologists Team Up to Save Butcherbird
From breeding birds to be released into the wild to restoring habitat in Virginia, learn how the Smithsonian and its partners are working to save the loggerhead shrike.
Smithsonian Joins WILDLABS
The first new partner since WILDLABS launched in 2015, the Smithsonian brings its science and education together with our global conservation technology community to help the world measure and accelerate progress for nature.
For the Zoo's Aquatic Habitats, It Takes a Village
The life support systems team monitors the Zoo’s water habitats with the same level of care that keepers devote to the animals.
Celebrating Vet Tech Week 2026
In celebration of Vet Tech Week, take a sneak peek into a day in the life of our vet techs!
Researchers Crack Amphibian Cold Case Using Museum Specimens
New research ties dramatic losses of Brazilian frogs in the 1970s to deadly amphibian chytrid fungus.
How Do You Build a National Conservation Plan?
Follow the five-year journey that brought together governments, zoos, and conservation experts to give the lowland tapir a fighting chance.
Cheetah Cam Returns With a New Litter of Five Adorable Cubs
Four generations of one cheetah family now live at the Zoo's off-campus research facility. Meet the newest members.
ZooLights Returns Nov. 20
The holiday season will shine brighter when ZooLights returns this November. Tickets on sale now.
Animal Cams
Watch giant pandas, cheetahs, elephants, lions and naked mole-rats on camera at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
Go Behind the Scenes of Panda Conservation
Discover unforgettable stories from the Smithsonian's giant panda program — and the science that helps protect one of the world's most beloved animals.
Shop for the Herd
Purchase your plush toys, books, and apparel inspired by the amazing animals at the Zoo. Proceeds from each sale support the Smithsonian mission.
We Save Species
Our science plays a leading role in the Smithsonian’s global efforts to save wildlife species from extinction.
Explore our conservation programs at the Zoo and our research headquarters in Front Royal, Virginia.