The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is a must-visit whether you’re vacationing in D.C. for the first time or making a seasonal pitstop, and that’s doubly true for any child. The zoo is home to more than 2,200 animals from nearly every continent; kids will have a blast observing lions, cheetahs, gorillas, otters, eagles and more. We’re sure your kids can’t wait to see the zoo’s two newest VIP residents, the giant pandas, which were unveiled to the public in January.
Daily programs such as kids’ farmkeepers talks and meet and greets with the animals help educate kids about the zoo’s crucial conservation and research work. Best of all? Admission to the zoo is free, and only requires reserving timed tickets ahead of your visit online.
Time Out tip: The zoo opens bright and early at 8am on weekends, ideal for kids who wake with the sun (and adults who want to skip the lines). Another tip: The best way to get to the zoo is via Metro’s Red Line, but don’t get off at the Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan stop if you want to avoid a steep uphill walk. Instead, ride one stop farther and disembark at the Cleveland Park stop to enjoy a roughly equidistant but downhill walk to the zoo’s entrance.