× Panda Palooza is on through Oct. 1!  In the event of a government shutdown, the Zoo will remain OPEN through at least Oct. 7, by using prior year funds. Visit si.edu for updates.

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Admission is free!
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Visit the Zoo!

The Zoo is free, but Entry Passes are required for all guests, including infants.

Today's Hours

Grounds : 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Last admittance 3 p.m.

Parking & Directions

dama gazelle

Whether taking the Metro, driving or walking, getting to the Zoo is easy! The main entrance is located at 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW.

Attractions

Visitors ride the Zoo's carousel. In the foreground, a young girl with one hand in the air sits atop a giraffe seat while her parent holds her in place.
Planning a visit to the Smithsonian's National Zoo? Don't miss these exciting attractions throughout the park.

Safety and Park Rules

Pedestrian entrance to the Smithsonian's National Zoo on Connecticut Ave.
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.

Daily Animal Demos

Keeper Matt Neff dangles a carrot above an Aldabra tortoise's mouth to demonstrate how they reach for food in the trees.
Get a front-row seat to keepers working with animals in these daily demonstrations!