National Zoo Guide 2026: Pandas, Hours, and What to See

Quick Answers First

The National Zoo is Washington, DC stands out as a great free attraction and one of very few places in the country where you can see giant pandas. Bao Li and Qing Bao are still a big attraction at the zoo but you can easily spend the whole day here enjoying the big cats, small mammals, reptiles, elephants, lions, and more.

So what is the best way to organize the day?

Seeing the Giant Pandas at the National Zoo

The National Zoo is one of two zoos in the country where you can see the giant pandas. (Sometimes 3 but Atlanta hasn’t had pandas since 2024.) This means that long lines can form to see the pandas especially during peak times like summer and warm weather weekends. Visit early – preferably on a weekday – for the best chance at an unhurried visit with them.

The giant pandas are positioned at the front of the zoo so enter through the main entrance on Connecticut Ave and head straight for the exhibit. Even if there is a line, it is best to see the pandas first before it gets too hot.

What To See

The National Zoo is home to a variety of animals – big and small – from all over the world. There are a lot of hills so wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather! The animals are the most active in cooler weather and in the morning so try to get there before noon – especially in the summer. A few big exhibits include:

• Great Cats: You’ll find lions and tigers in this exhibit, plus lots to learn about what makes these cats great predators. Learn about roars, speed, and how they use their teeth and claws.
• Great Ape House and the O-Line: Catch the gorillas and orangutans at the Great Ape House. Learn about what they have in common with people and each other. Don’t forget to look up – you might catch the orangutans on the O-Line.
• Small Mammal House: This house features a variety of small mammals from all over the world. Learn about their habitats and how they thrive in different parts of the world. This indoor exhibit is a great place to get out of the elements in the summer or winter.
• Reptile Discovery Center: This is another great indoor exhibit with turtles, snacks, lizards, and more.
• Bird House: Visit the indoor aviary with three different sections and then explore the exhibits outside. This exhibit is near the Giant Panda exhibit.
• American Trail: Walk along the American Trail to learn about beavers, otters, eagles, seals, and more. Learn about where these animals live and what their habitats look like.

Note that The African Trail is under renovation until further notice.

What to Eat

During the busier seasons, you’ll find the Zoo Cafe, Elevation Burger, Sbarro, Auntie Anne’s, Cinnabon, and various food trucks. My favorite spot to stop for a snack is near the exit of the panda exhibit. You’ll find multiple food stalls, including the BBQ food truck and shopping for panda merchandise.

If you want to eat outside the Zoo, check out Duke’s across the street or nearby Open City, Nando’s Peri-Peri, The Cracked Eggery, Cleveland Park Bar and Grill, and Fat Pete’s BBQ. The Cracked Eggery is on the way to the Zoo from the Cleveland Park Metro stop so you can grab breakfast before your visit.

Best Time To Go

The National Zoo is open every day except December 25. It is open from 8 am to 6 pm from March 15 to September 14 and 8 am to 4 pm from September 15 to March 14. Most food vendors and shopping stalls are open from March to September, but some vendors will close as the weather gets cooler. Summer is hot and humid, so try to visit early to see the animals before they get too uncomfortable in the heat.

In my opinion, winter is an under-appreciated time to go. It’s a great place to get some steps in during the cooler weather, and you can warm up in indoor animal houses like the Small Mammal House and the Reptile Discovery Center. Many food vendors are closed, but you can grab lunch nearby or bring snacks inside. The Zoo is also open in the evenings for ZooLights during the holiday season. ZooLights is an additional cost: $6 per person over 2 years old.

Free, timed tickets are required no matter when you visit.

Getting to the National Zoo

The National Zoo is between Metro stops: Cleveland Park and Woodley Park on the Red line. Either stop will get you there, but the walk will be downhill if you get off at Cleveland Park and walk down Constitution Ave. When you are ready to leave, continue down Constitution Ave to the Woodley Park stop for a downhill walk. Limited parking is also available for $30, and you must purchase a pass in advance. The Zoo strongly encourages taking public transportation whenever possible.