Visiting the Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington DC

The Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington DC is one of the best zoo's on the entire east coast. Since we live in south central Pennsylvania, we can reach the zoo in about 4 hours and it makes for the perfect day-trip with the kids.

The zoo is open 364 days a year (closed on Christmas) and they always offer free admission. Yes, you read that correctly, FREE admission! It's part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum and research complex. It sits on 163 beautifully landscaped acres and more than 1,500 animals call this place home.

When you visit the zoo you'll find all kinds of different animals. You'll be able to see Cheetahs, Lemurs, Oryx, Frogs, Orangutans, Tortoises, Alpaca, American Alligator, Bison, Beavers, Andean Bear, Asian Elephants, Bald Eagles, Otters, Howler Monkeys, Prairie Dogs, Bobcats, Pelicans, Varies Species of Snakes, California Sea Lions, Leopards, Crocodiles, Gazelles, Emu's, Foxes, Marmosets, Giant Panda, Gila Monsters, Tamarins, Gray Seals, Hedgehogs, Zebra, Armadillo, Lions, Mini Donkey's, Red Panda, Sloth Bear, Two-Toed Sloth, Tigers, Western Lowland Gorillas, Gibbons, Whooping Cranes and more!

One of the things that we love about this zoo is that we can bring our own food into the park. So, when we visit and take the kids down for the day, I pack a nice picnic lunch for the entire family to enjoy. Throughout the park you'll find picnic areas that you can enjoy. Not interested in that? You can certainly buy food and beverages there. Please note: No alcoholic beverages are allowed.

Throughout the year they schedule various special events that you may enjoy. You can find the schedule of special events located directly on the zoo's website. In addition, if you are really looking forward to seeing a particular animal on exhibit, you may want to check to their website to make sure the exhibit is open to the public. They're always doing construction and improving the animal's enclosures, so if you have your heart set on seeing something in particular, you may want to check ahead.

Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute is located at 3001 Connecticut Avenue, NW Washington, DC. 20008. If you need additional information or to inquire about educational programs, you can reach the zoo at 202-633-4888 or visit their website online.

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