The National Zoological Park
Written by Sarah Worthy
The National Zoological Park is a 163-acre garden paradise located about 30 minutes from our nation’s Capitol. The National Zoo opened its gates in 1889 by an act of Congress for “the advancement of science and instruction and recreation of the peopleâ€. It joined the Smithsonian Institution’s collection of museums, research laboratories and scientific gardens in 1890 and has since served as a sanctuary for animals, particularly the endangered and displaced. It currently boasts a population of more than 2400 individual animals from 400 different species. The National Zoo’s mission quests after a leadership in the preservation and understanding of our wild kingdom.Â
The National Zoo is funded entirely by Congress and admission to the zoo is free of charge. It is open 364 days of the year, and Washington D.C. offers many superb days to visit with its temperate weather. The Zoo has daily educational programs and behind the scenes tours where you can learn about how elephants are trained or watch a giant octopus during feeding time, and more. Local residents make use of the extensive paths and trails throughout the lush landscaping for daily walking and jogging, creating an exciting workout past lion, tiger, and bear enclosures.
The National Zoo offers visitors the chance to experience an African Safari, a walk through an Asian forest, and see and hear the sites of a Brazilian rainforest all in one afternoon. You will see animals you would probably never be able to view in the wild such as the Giant Pandas or the Western lowland Gorillas. You will also discover many animals you have never heard of. The National Zoo in Washington D.C. is a must-see on your vacation to our nation’s capitol city.
The Zoo hours change with the seasons, so call ahead to plan your visit. Call 202-633-4800 for general information.
