Zoos in District of Columbia

The District of Columbia has a single zoo, the Smithsonian's National Zoological Park, set within Rock Creek Park in northwest Washington. The grounds cover 163.1 acres, and the zoo opened in 1889 under an act of Congress, with its landscape designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and cares for roughly 2,700 animals representing about 180 species. Admission is free, though every visitor needs a timed Entry Pass. Because the terrain is hilly, comfortable walking shoes are advisable, and the zoo suggests budgeting two to three hours to see the grounds. It is paired with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, a research campus in Front Royal, Virginia.