Explore the Wild Wonders at Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Discover the wonders of wildlife at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, a premier zoo in Washington, DC, dedicated to education and conservation.
The Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, DC, is a world-renowned zoo that offers an unforgettable experience for tourists. Home to over 2,000 animals representing 400 species, the zoo provides a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in beautifully designed habitats. From giant pandas to majestic elephants, visitors can immerse themselves in the wonders of nature without any admission fees. Stroll through the lush gardens and learn about conservation efforts through engaging exhibits. With its rich history and commitment to wildlife preservation, the National Zoo is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and families alike.
A brief summary to Smithsonian National Zoological Park
- 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, Northwest Washington, District of Columbia, 20008, US
- +1202-633-2614
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy cooler temperatures and see more animal activity.
- Take advantage of the free guided tours for in-depth knowledge about the animals.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic areas of the zoo.
- Check the daily schedule for animal feedings and special events to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo is expansive and involves a lot of walking.
Getting There
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Metro
From downtown Silver Spring, head to the Silver Spring Metro Station located at 8400 Colesville Rd. Take the Red Line towards Glenmont. After approximately 15 minutes, get off at the Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan station. Exit the station and walk towards Connecticut Ave NW. Turn right on Connecticut Ave and walk about 10 minutes until you reach the Smithsonian National Zoological Park at 3001 Connecticut Ave NW.
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Bus
From the Silver Spring Transit Center, board the Metrobus L2 towards the National Zoo. The bus stop is located just outside the transit center. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the stop for the Smithsonian National Zoological Park. The entrance to the zoo will be right in front of you at 3001 Connecticut Ave NW.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, start from downtown Silver Spring and head north on Georgia Ave towards Colesville Rd. Turn left onto Colesville Rd and continue until you reach the intersection with Connecticut Ave NW. Turn right onto Connecticut Ave and proceed for about 1.5 miles. The Smithsonian National Zoological Park will be on your left at 3001 Connecticut Ave NW. This walk will take approximately 30-40 minutes.
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Bicycle
For those who want to bike, you can rent a bike from one of the bike-sharing services available in Silver Spring. Start from downtown and head north on Georgia Ave. Follow the bike lanes to continue onto Connecticut Ave NW. The ride to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park will take approximately 20-25 minutes, and you'll find bike racks available near the entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave NW.
Discover more about Smithsonian National Zoological Park
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