AskTheCity
Ask
Skip to content
Ask Washington DC

Smithsonian National Zoo

8.0Locals Score / 10

#6 of 8 Museums in Washington, DC

free
Known forSmithsonianoutdoorfamily-friendlyWoodley Park
Book TicketsDirectionsBooking links · they don’t affect the Locals Score

One of the finest free zoos in the world, the National Zoo spans 163 acres in Rock Creek Park and is home to giant pandas, great apes, big cats, and hundreds of other species in thoughtfully designed habitats. The Asia Trail and the Great Ape House are perennial highlights, and the zoo's conservation mission gives visits real substance beyond entertainment. Parking is limited and expensive — take the Metro to Woodley Park and walk down the hill.

Key facts

Hours
Hours not verified
Pricefree
Phone—
Website—
Nearest transit—
Time needed—
Best time to go—
Last verifiedJuly 14, 2026

Locals Score

8.0/10
  • Value9.5
  • Iconic7.5
  • Excellence8.5
  • Crowd level7.0
  • Authenticity7.5
  • Accessibility8.0
How the Locals Score works →

Nearby in Ask Washington DC

Where to stay near Smithsonian National Zoo

Compare hotels & stays on Booking.com · doesn’t affect the Locals Score

Find hotels →

Last reviewed July 14, 2026 by AskTheCity Editorial.