The Smithsonian National Zoological Park, commonly known as the National Zoo, is home to giant pandas and is one of the oldest and most famous zoos in the United States. It was officially founded in 1889 for "the advancement of science and the education and enjoyment of the public." The project stemmed from the desire of William Temple Hornaday, a Smithsonian taxidermist, who was committed to saving endangered species such as the American bison. Today, the National Zoo is an integral part of the Smithsonian Institution. It spans 163 acres and is home to more than 2,200 animals of 300 species, many of which are endangered, combining tourist attraction with conservation and scientific research.
North America, Smithsonian National Zoo: A Long Tradition with Giant Pandas
Giant pandas have been present at the Smithsonian National Zoo since 1972, when the first pair arrived as a gift from China to the United States. This was a sign of diplomatic strengthening during President Nixon's visit. Since then, the zoo has hosted several generations of pandas, who have become symbols of international friendship and global conservation programs.
Regarding the giant pandas, the current situation involves two individuals, Bao Li and Qing Bao. Both made their public debut in January 2025 after a period of quarantine. Bao Li is the grandson of the famous panda Mei Xiang, a longtime resident of the Zoo. Mei Xiang previously gave birth to seven cubs at the Zoo, four of which survived, including Tai Shan (2005), Bao Bao (2013), and Bei Bei (2015), all of whom were later transferred to China under international cooperation agreements. No new cubs have been born since the arrival of Bao Li and Qing Bao.
Visiting hours and costs
The Smithsonian National Zoo is open daily, with hours varying depending on the season. In the winter, it's open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., while in the summer, hours are extended until 6:00 p.m. (last admission one hour before closing). Admission to the park is free, but you must reserve a free entry pass to visit the zoo. Parking costs $30$ if booked in advance, or $40$ if purchased on the day of your visit. For more information, visit the official website. Smithsonian National Zoo.
How to get to the Smithsonian National Zoo
The zoo is located at 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC, and is very well connected by public transportation. The best way to reach it is via the Washington Metro, taking the Red Line and getting off at the Cleveland Park stop. From there, you can walk a few blocks along Connecticut Avenue to the zoo's main entrance. It's strongly recommended to avoid driving on weekends and reserve parking in advance, as spaces are limited and in high demand. With its rich history and strong commitment to conservation, the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, DC remains a must-see destination for animal lovers and those who wish to see the famous giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao up close, symbols of peace and cooperation between the United States and China.