Smithsonian National Zoological Park

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Zoo is the nation's zoo. It is a 163-acre zoological park set amid Rock Creek National Park in the heart of Washington, D.C. You can visit the Zoo 364 days a year to see 2,000 individual animals of 400 different species. The National Zoo is a beautiful urban park offering family fun and excitement, stimulating education programs, and a peaceful place to enjoy nature. There is something new to discover on every visit. The Zoo is one of Washington's and the Smithsonian's most popular tourist destinations. We welcome up to two million visitors—from the local community, the country, and the rest of the world—every year, free of charge. We are a place where people can marvel at wonderful animals, learn about wildlife and its conservation, and enjoy a beautiful, peaceful experience among our gardens. We are a member of the American Public Gardens Association. We are also a research, conservation, and education center for endangered species. And, we boast a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital and extensive research facilities.