I really enjoy the concept of the walk-through holiday light display. No one has to worry about driving and you can move through the displays at your own pace. Plus, there’s nothing like frolicking through a light display arm in arm with a loved one to set the mood for holiday warm fuzzy feelings. And what better place to do this than our city’s beloved National Zoo?
What to Expect
Tickets for ZooLights are $10 for everyone over the age of 3. This includes entrance only but you’ll enjoy the beautifully decorated trees, lights displays of all of your favorite animals, live music, and photo opportunities. Hot drinks and snack are available for purchase and there are some activities for an additional cost like the carousel, maze, and a mini train ride.
ZooLights can get crowded but there are so many lights to enjoy. Many of the trees are lit up so you will enjoy festive displays everywhere you look. Go right at opening to get a few photos before the biggest crowds arrive. While you’ll see plenty of animal themed lights, do not expect to see the actual animals during your visit. Many of the animals are resting and the indoor habitats will be closed. Dress for the weather since it will be difficult to find an indoor area. This means warm shoes for walking and gloves you can wear while holding a drink.
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When to Go
ZooLights is open Friday to Sunday from November 20 to December 20 plus nightly from December 20 to January 3 (closed December 24, 25, 31 and January 1). For the best luck at fewer crowds, go early in the season, on a Sunday night, or on a weeknight the week of Christmas. If you are a member, check out one of the member nights on Tuesday, December 8 and Wednesday, December 9. Member get up to 6 tickets for free and 15% off on food and shopping on these nights only.
Don’t have children but love the lights? Check adults only night (21+) on Wednesday, December 16. Tickets are $19 and include a complimentary adult beverage. Some animals will be on view during member and adults-only nights.
Where to Eat
The zoo has many stands for snacks open so you can grab popcorn, nuts, cookies, and hot drinks (with and without alcohol) as you wander through the lights. The Bootheel BBQ food truck will be open which is one of my favorite places to eat inside the zoo. Across from the main entrance, you’ll also find Duke’s Counter which offers great burgers, fried chicken, and other American diner style options. Look out for ZooLights specialty cocktails. Be sure to make a reservation. Duke’s fills up fast on ZooLight nights.
Getting There
Because this event is so popular, Metro is the best way to go for ZooLights. The National Zoo is located directly between Woodley Park and Cleveland Park on the red line. The entrance on Constitution Ave is a hill use Cleveland Park for arrival and Woodley Park for departure for a downhill walk both ways. The National Zoo also offers a limited number of parking passes that must be purchased in advanced. Zoo membership benefits do to apply for special events nights.
