Social Narratives

The entrance to the Smithsonian's National Zoo, featuring a large concrete sculpture of the word "ZOO" situated behind a colorful flowerbed

Social narratives are resource guides for individuals with cognitive disabilities and are useful as pre-visit guides to animal areas within the park. The social narratives highlight what visitors may encounter while touring the Zoo. In addition to showcasing animals in the collection, these guides also provide information on quiet areas, educational demonstrations, hands-on activities and artistic works.

Please Note: The social narratives included below do not reflect which exhibits and areas of the Zoo are currently closed to the public. Please refer to the Visit page for updated safety measures and to prepare for your visit.

Visiting During COVID-19

Visiting During COVID-19 Social Narrative (English Language)

Exhibits

Amazonia Social Narrative (English Language)

American Trail Social Narrative (English Language)

Elephant Trails Social Narrative (English Language)

Great Ape House Social Narrative (English Language)

Great Ape House Social Narrative (Spanish Language)

Reptile Discovery Center Social Narrative (English Language)

Reptile Discovery Center Social Narrative (Spanish Language)

Small Mammal House Social Narrative (English Language)

Small Mammal House Social Narrative (Spanish Language)

Gibbon Ridge Social Narrative (English Language)

Lemur Island Social Narrative (English Language)

Lemur Island Social Narrative (Spanish Language)

Think Tank Social Narrative (English Language)

Think Tank Social Narrative (Spanish Language)

The entrance to the Smithsonian's National Zoo, featuring a large concrete sculpture of the word "ZOO" situated behind a colorful flowerbed