Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Famous zoo housing more than 2,200 animals from around the world, plus free admission.
Smithsonian National Zoological Park is rated 4.6 / 5 from 46,854 Google reviews and sits about 4.8 km (60 min walk) from Fort Totten station.
General overview
About Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Smithsonian's National Zoo is a free 163-acre urban zoo in Washington, DC, operated by the Smithsonian Institution. It features hundreds of species, animal habitats, conservation exhibits, educational programs, and extensive walking paths. Advance entry passes have historically been required, even though general admission is free. None of the details below are live-verified; confirm current requirements, hours, animal availability, and parking information on the official website before visiting.
- Free general admission
- Smithsonian conservation and research programs
- Elephants, lions, orangutans, great apes, big cats, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife
- Asia Trail and other themed habitat areas
- Historic Olmsted-designed landscape with wooded, hilly walking routes
- Seasonal events and educational programs
- Giant-panda history and conservation exhibits; panda availability should be confirmed before travel
Things to do here
Zoo animal exhibits
Explore a broad collection of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates in indoor and outdoor habitats.
Asia Trail
A major themed area featuring Asian species and conservation-focused habitats.
Elephant Trails
Large outdoor habitats and viewing areas for Asian elephants, subject to animal schedules and weather.
Great Ape House
Indoor and outdoor habitats for great apes, including orangutans and other primates.
Kids' Farm
A family-oriented area traditionally featuring domestic and farm animals; hours and seasonal operation may vary.
Conservation and education programs
Keeper talks, demonstrations, interpretive signs, family activities, and special events may be offered on selected days.
Smithsonian's National ZooLights
A seasonal evening light event traditionally held around the winter holidays, usually requiring a separate ticket.
The zoo is in a hilly, wooded area, and walking between exhibits can be strenuous. Allow extra time for security, parking, and the distance between the Connecticut Avenue entrance and exhibits. Public transportation is often convenient.
Reserve the free timed-entry pass in advance if the zoo's current system requires one. Reserve parking separately if driving.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Smithsonian National Zoological Park is about 4.8 km (~60 min walk) from Fort Totten station on the Washington Metro.
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Smithsonian National Zoological Park from Fort Totten station?
Smithsonian National Zoological Park is about 4802 m (roughly 60 min walk) from Fort Totten station on the Washington Metro. Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Smithsonian National Zoological Park rated?
Smithsonian National Zoological Park has a Google rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 46,854 reviews.
What's near Smithsonian National Zoological Park?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Walmart Supercenter, Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America.
Is Smithsonian National Zoological Park wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Smithsonian National Zoological Park: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom, wheelchair-accessible seating.
Is there parking near Smithsonian National Zoological Park?
Google lists these parking options near Smithsonian National Zoological Park: paid parking lot, paid street parking.
Is Smithsonian National Zoological Park good for children?
Yes — Google lists Smithsonian National Zoological Park as good for children.
Are dogs allowed at Smithsonian National Zoological Park?
Google does not list Smithsonian National Zoological Park as allowing dogs.
Is the National Zoo free?
General admission has traditionally been free. Visitors may still need a free timed-entry pass, and parking and special events may cost extra.
Do I need a reservation?
Timed-entry passes have historically been required or strongly recommended. Check the official visit page for the current rule before going.
How long should I spend there?
Plan on about 3–5 hours for a meaningful visit. Families and visitors exploring most exhibits may want most of the day.
Is the zoo suitable for strollers and wheelchairs?
Many areas are accessible, but the zoo is hilly and includes long paths. Check the accessibility information and consider mobility needs when planning your route.
Can I bring food?
Outside food and nonalcoholic drinks have generally been allowed for personal use, subject to security rules. Confirm current restrictions before arrival.
Are giant pandas currently at the zoo?
Panda collections and individual-animal availability have changed over time. Confirm the current panda status and viewing arrangements on the official website rather than relying on older travel information.
What is the best way to get there?
Metrorail and Metrobus can be practical alternatives to driving. The Woodley Park and Cleveland Park Metro stations are commonly used, though both involve walking to the zoo and local conditions may affect the best route.
Can I see every animal during my visit?
No. Animals may be indoors, off exhibit, receiving care, or less active because of weather, season, or daily husbandry schedules.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.