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Common Ground News

How much does it cost to go to the National Zoo?

Author

Olivia Shea

Updated on February 20, 2026

How much does it cost to go to the National Zoo?

The Zoo is free, but entry passes are required for all guests, including infants. Effective July 30, all visitors ages 2 and older are required to wear a mask in all indoor spaces at the Zoo, regardless of their vaccination status.

Correspondingly, how long does it take to go through the National Zoo?

2-4 hours

Also Know, what day is the National Zoo closed? Visit the Zoo!

As a public health precaution due to COVID-19, all Smithsonian museums are temporarily closed effective Monday, Nov. 23, 2020. We are not announcing a reopening date at this time and will provide updates on our websites and social media.

Herein, how do I get to the National Zoo?

Directions to the National Zoo

The zoo is just a short walk from both of the stations. By Metrobus: L1 and L2 Metrobuses stop in front of the zoo's main entrance on Connecticut Avenue. By Car: The main entrance to the Zoo is located off of Connecticut Avenue, between Cathedral Avenue NW and Devonshire Place NW.

Can you bring food into the National Zoo?

Visitors may bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks into the Zoo. Visitors may not bring in alcohol. Glass bottles are discouraged; broken glass presents a danger to visitors, employees and animals.

Is National Zoo free?

Yes. Admission to the Zoo is still free. However, all guests are required to reserve an entry pass before visiting. If you plan to drive and park at the Zoo, you will need to reserve a paid parking pass.

Are there giraffes at the National Zoo?

Even so, many giraffes were born at the National Zoo. Between 1966 and 1976, 15 giraffes were born there.

Does the metro go to the National Zoo?

Take the Metro and Walk

The National Zoo is located on Metro's Red Line, in between the Cleveland Park metro stop and the Woodley Park/National Zoo metro stop. Get off at the Cleveland Park stop when going to the zoo: head south, on Connecticut Avenue, and the walk will be downhill.

Are all museums in Washington DC free?

To go along with the incredible monuments and memorials, the National Mall features free museums, both of the Smithsonian variety and not. You can enjoy all of them without paying a cent, including the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the U.S. Botanic Garden and the National Gallery of Art.

Which zoo is better Baltimore or DC?

While the National is the "better" zoo, your niece and nephew will have a great time at the Baltimore zoo. Comparing the two, the National Zoo in Washington is much better, no contest.

Does the National Zoo have koalas?

The National Zoo & Aquarium is home to two koalas; Matilda and Bailey.

What animals does the National Zoo have?

Founded in 1889, the Smithsonian's National Zoo sits on 163 acres in the heart of Washington, D.C.'s Rock Creek Park and is home to 2,700 animals representing more than 390 species.

How many pandas are in the National Zoo?

two

Is there free parking at the Smithsonian Zoo?

Free parking! 9. Avoid Beach Drive! The Beach Drive entrance to The National Zoo is located on the east side of the park and will be closed for renovations during the summer of 2017.

How big is the National Zoo?

66 ha

Where do you park at the Smithsonian?

There is no public parking facility at the Smithsonian on the National Mall. On-street meter parking options are available but please be advised to carefully check the days and hours of enforcement posted on the parking meters and curbside signs.

How many zoos are in Washington DC?

There are 10 best zoos in Washington DC amongst the rest. They house more than 300 species and at least 1500 animals from all around the world.

Is the National Zoo open?

Open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily (last admittance 3 p.m.)

Learn more about entry pass options. Face Coverings: Visitors ages 6 and older are required to wear face coverings (that cover the nose and mouth) during their visit, including while outside.

Is the National Zoo open in the winter?

The Zoo's lions and tigers remain outside in the wintertime, following their normal schedules unless the temperature dips below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

How much is parking at the DC Zoo?

If you choose to drive a personal vehicle and park at the Zoo, you will need to purchase a paid parking pass for $30 before your visit (one pass per vehicle). Your parking pass is your entry pass to the Zoo and covers all passengers in your personal vehicle.

Where do you park at the National Zoo?

National Zoo
  • 2548 Woodley Rd. NW. Alley Space - 2631 Connecticut Ave.
  • 3513 Connecticut Ave. NW. 3513 Connecticut Ave.
  • 1811 Adams Mill Rd. NW. Alley Space - Adams Morgan/PNC Bank Lot.
  • 3626 16th St. NW. The Woodner Garage.
  • 3155 Hiatt Pl. NW. DCUSA Garage.
  • 4455 Connecticut Ave. NW. Park Van Ness Garage.
  • 1345 Park Rd. NW.
  • 2002 R St. NW.

What should I do today in DC?

Best things to do in Washington, DC
  1. Rock Creek Park. Things to do Northwest.
  2. Rose's Luxury. Restaurants Eclectic Capitol Hill.
  3. Le Diplomate. Restaurants French Logan Circle.
  4. Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden. Museums Art and design.
  5. Eastern Market.
  6. National Zoological Park.
  7. National Gallery of Art.
  8. National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Can you visit the Smithsonian?

Admission to all of the Smithsonian museums is free. With 19 museums and galleries, there truly is something for everyone. Guided tours, hands-on activities and special programs are available.

How much is the Baltimore Zoo?

All tickets — adult, child and senior — will cost just $10 at the front gate. Visitors should also be aware that during the winter season, the Zoo will not be operating with its full collection of animals.

When did the Smithsonian Zoo open?

1889

What if the government shuts down in DC?

FREE THINGS TO DO DURING THE SHUTDOWN
  • The US Capitol Visitor Center and tours remain open (they are funded until September 2019)
  • The National Botanical Gardens.
  • Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
  • Old Post Office Pavilion.
  • Folger's Shakespeare Theatre.
  • National Inventor's Hall of Fame Museum (Alexandria)

Can I bring a backpack to the zoo?

Yes, just about any bag, wagon, stroller. Very good place for families! Take your own lunch and drinks. A lot of people bring in backpacks, strollers, and basically anything that a lil person might need.

Can you smoke in the zoo?

Smoking has long been prohibited inside zoo buildings, but has previously been allowed in designated outdoor areas. "Eliminating tobacco and its byproducts, particularly secondhand smoke, will help us provide a healthy, safe environment for visitors, staff and animals," said Kim Smith, zoo director.

Does the DC Zoo sell beer?

This is one of many animals demonstrations and events occurring daily. The Zoo even sells beer, which is how Taylor convinced Ethan that they should both get their faces painted like pandas… Dress up in your favorite costume and enjoy craft beers, D.C. food truck fare, performance artists, and a DJ dance party.

Can you bring drinks into the Smithsonian?

Visitors are permitted to bring food and beverages in sealed containers inside a backpack or other bag. Food and beverages may not be consumed in the museum. It is difficult to say how much time it would take to visit any of the Smithsonian museums.

How far is the National Zoo from the National Mall?

3 miles

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