“Lions and tigers and bears, Oh MY!” Well, there weren’t any bears but there were plenty of lions and tigers and cheetahs and gorillas and…
A visit to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, more commonly known as the National Zoo, when you’re in Washington D.C. is definitely on the “to-do” list.
Started it 1889 with the mission to provide leadership in animal science, education and visitor experience, the mission continues today. Having two locations, or “campuses, the most popular is the 163 acre urban park located in northwest Washington D.C. The other “campus” is the 3200 acre Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute located in Front Royal, VA.
The main campus, in urban D.C. is located two blocks from the Woodley Park Metro station. Since parking at the zoo is limited, it’s a smart move to take the metro. The most a roundtrip ticket would cost per person is $3.36.
Approximately 400 different animal species are on display. The best known exhibits are the giant pandas, but the zoo also has great apes, big cats, Asian elephants, insects and reptiles.
Redesigned in 2008, the zoo has a pleasurable and well marked path system that guarantees you’ll be able to take the shortest distance possible to see your favorite animal in a fairly-close-to-natural environment. While there are a few hills in the zoo, none are stressing and a slow casual walk gets even the eldest senior to the top with ease.
From 1950 until his death in 1976, the zoo was home for Smokey Bear. Discovered in Lincoln County, NM following a forest fire, the bear cub was brought to Washington D.C. and housed at the zoo where he became an icon for the U.S. Forestry Department.
From April until October each year the zoo is open daily from 10am until 6pm. From November until March, the hours are shortened with the zoo closing daily at 4:30pm.
While parking is available, it is limited. Wise visitor’s will ride the metro system and can plan your trip by clicking here.
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