Exhibit Updates and Construction

Yes! Nearly all of the Zoo’s major animal areas are open – only some areas of the park are affected by temporary closures. Check our Exhibits page to learn which animals you might encounter on your next visit.

The outdoor Komodo dragon and Chinese alligator habitats at Reptile Discovery Center are scheduled to permanently close on Nov. 16, 2026. The historic Reptile Discovery Center and its surrounding exhibits are slated for renovation in the coming years to better meet the needs of our animals, animal care staff and visitors. Both species are expected to return when renovation is complete. 

Animal welfare is a priority throughout construction. We monitor animals carefully to understand how they respond. Animal care teams systematically track behaviors such as activity levels, resting patterns, habitat use, and other welfare indicators. Combined with keepers’ expert knowledge and daily observations, these data help us recognize meaningful changes and distinguish them from normal variation in behavior. If we identify a welfare concern associated with construction, we can respond by adjusting animal care practices, construction activities, or both.

Yes. Although some pathways may be temporarily closed to accommodate construction traffic, visitors can still navigate through most of the Zoo’s exhibits. For the most up-to-date information, look for signage or ask a staff. 

Yes. Some stores or restaurants may be closed short-term or are weather dependent, but there are plenty of places to eat and shop at the Zoo that are unaffected by construction. Visit our Shopping and Dining page for more information on what you can expect.

Yes. Visitors are always welcome to bring their own mobility devices, although strollers may need to be left outside exhibit buildings on busy days. Rentable strollers and mobility devices are also available at the Visitor Center (near the main gate at Connecticut Avenue) or at the Lion-Tiger Hill information booth (near the lower entrance of the Zoo) on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Zoo works to minimize disruption while making essential improvements to animal care facilities and the visitor experience. Our construction protocols require work equipment not be operated before 7 a.m. We are committed to complying with applicable D.C. regulations, including noise ordinances, and ensuring proper permitting is in place.

Have a question about Zoo construction or campus planning? Email [email protected].

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is a designated historic district, listed in the D.C. Inventory of Historic Sites and the National Register of Historic Places. Since opening in 1891, the Zoo has provided an extraordinary window into the natural world and now welcomes 2 million visitors each year. Changes to the Zoo’s layout are vetted and approved by various historical planning commissions, with the goal of maintaining the original character of the historic district and also providing a world-class experience for animals and visitors.