Explore the Wonders of the Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Visit the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, DC, and discover a world of wildlife conservation and education at a stunning urban oasis.
The Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, DC offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a natural habitat where animals thrive. Home to over 2,000 animals representing nearly 400 species, this expansive zoo provides a perfect blend of education and entertainment for visitors of all ages. From the majestic giant pandas to the playful sea lions, each exhibit invites you to experience wildlife up close in a beautifully landscaped environment. The zoo is dedicated to conservation, research, and education, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a family-friendly attraction that promotes awareness of wildlife preservation.
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
- Visit during weekdays for a less crowded experience.
- Take advantage of the free guided tours for in-depth knowledge about the animals.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas throughout the zoo.
- Check the daily schedule for animal feedings and demonstrations for a more engaging visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the zoo is quite expansive and involves a lot of walking.
Getting There
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Bus
From your location in Waldorf, head to the nearest bus stop. You can catch the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) Bus Route 34 towards Washington, D.C. Make sure to check the schedule for the next bus. After approximately 40 minutes, get off at the 'St. George's Ave & Crain Hwy' stop. From there, transfer to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metrobus Route 30N towards Fort Totten Station. Stay on the bus for about 30 minutes and disembark at 'Connecticut Ave & Woodley Park' stop. The Smithsonian National Zoological Park is a short walk from the stop, just follow Connecticut Ave NW for about 10 minutes until you reach the entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave NW.
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Metro
To reach the Smithsonian National Zoological Park from Waldorf using the Metro, start by walking to the nearest MTA bus stop and take the MTA Bus Route 34 to the 'Branch Ave Metro Station'. Once at Branch Ave, purchase a SmarTrip card if you don’t have one, and take the Green Line towards Greenbelt. Transfer at 'Gallery Place-Chinatown' to the Red Line towards Glenmont. Get off at the 'Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan' station. Exit the station and walk north on Connecticut Ave NW. The zoo will be on your right after about a 10-minute walk.
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Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route, consider using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and set your destination to 'Smithsonian National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008'. The pickup location will be based on your current location in Waldorf. The ride may take around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Ensure you have your phone charged and ready to communicate with your driver if needed.
Discover more about Smithsonian National Zoological Park
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