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National Zoological Park
Zoo in Washington, District of Columbia
Good-for-Kids Rating
BabiesToddlers & Pre-K
School-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Zoo
National Zoological Park Description
Though the highlight of many kids' visit to this sprawling zoo and conservation center is to see the giant pandas Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and their cub, Tai Shan, don't let the fun stop there. The ZOOlab is a hit with young children, who can touch feathers and skins. Ever watch an elephant take a bath? Or a giant octopus get fed? Now's the chance.
Kid Tips
School-Age Kids: Don't miss "How do you zoo?," a hands-on program where kids ages 5-10 learn what's involved in being a zookeeper. At the Visitor's Center, weekends 10 a.m.-4 p.m. At the Kids' Farm children can find out just where their food comes from (there's probably the only "Pizza Garden" in the world here). Go here for information.
Planning Notes
- Breakfast with a panda. The zoo's indoor exhibits and other attractions don't officially open until 10 a.m., but the zoo grounds themselves are open at (gasp!) 6 a.m. If you're up early and have plans later in the day, morning's a good time to see the animals in outdoor habitats in relative peace and quiet. The giant pandas, big cats, and lots of other creatures are out early. A visit to the zoo's Web site is a pre-trip must if you want to plot your day without missing anything.
Just the Facts
Hours: April to October: grounds open 6 a.m.-8 p.m.; buildings open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. November to March: grounds open 6 a.m.-6 p.m.; buildings 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Fees: Free
Recommended Time: Half day
Reviews of National Zoological Park
CALL BEFORE GOING
By tomleadom February 09, 2009
We headed towards the National Zoo one morning, knowing that we needed to get there early. Because the website stated that they were having a special members only event, at 1:00 and the Zoo would be closed to the general public that afternoon. When we arrived at the zoo at 9:00 a.m. the parking lot attended told us that half of the zoo was already closed and the entire zoo would be completely closed in 2 hours. Needless to say their website isnt always correct! Read More
Wrong Number!
By TheMayneFamily August 06, 2008 | West Michigan
The phone number given here gives you a message that it has been changed to 202 633 4800 which brings you to the American Indian Volunteer Answering machine, go to the zoos website for more accurate contact info. Read More
