The National Zoo, established in 1889, is a historic and beloved attraction in Washington D.C., housing over 2,000 animals and offering free admission.
Currency
USD ($)
Best time to visit
April to September
Languages
English
Coordinates
38.901°, -76.990°
Key facts
1The National Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States
2It is one of the few zoos in the world to house giant pandas
3The zoo is home to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute
Timeline
1889: The zoo opens with a collection of 150 animals, including a National Zoo's first elephant, Lady Jane Grey
1902: The zoo's first giant panda, Ling-Ling, arrives
1972: The zoo becomes part of the Smithsonian Institution