Visit the Zoo
Admission Is Free!
Know Before You Go
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 Zoo is committed to providing inclusive experiences to all audiences. Strollers, wheelchairs, and electronic vehicles are available to rent.
Visitor Information
Closure Notice
The Africa Trail and American Bison exhibit areas are under renovation. The animals will not be viewable during this time.
Getting to the Zoo
Buses and vans: Idling in front of the Zoo's entrance is not permitted. Instead, book ahead and reserve a Bus Parking Pass or Bus Drop-Off Pass for the date of your visit.
Entering the Zoo
The Zoo is free, but Entry Passes are required for all guests, including infants.
Traveling with a big group? Book ahead to save passes for your group of 16 or more.
Daily Animal Demos
Get a front-row seat to watch 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.
Additional Experiences
Attractions
Carousels, playgrounds, virtual reality and more! Don't miss these exciting attractions throughout the park.
Food & Shopping
From pizza and hamburgers to plush toys and Bird Friendly® certified coffee, you can find a variety of dining and shopping options 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.
No. Idling and parking along Connecticut Avenue is not permitted. Book ahead and reserve your Bus Parking Pass or Bus Drop-Off Pass through the group reservation portal.