Smithsonian's National Zoo Tours and Activities

Smithsonian's National Zoo
Smithsonian's National Zoo
Smithsonian's National Zoo
Smithsonian's National Zoo
Photo by Sophia Hatchitt


Plan a trip to see Smithsonian's National Zoo

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Hotel Arboretum
The Churchill Hotel near Embassy Row
Club Quarters Hotel in Washington DC

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Adventure & outdoor

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Holiday & seasonal tours

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Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Smithsonian's National Zoo

Omni Shoreham Hotel

Omni Shoreham Hotel

4 out of 5
2500 Calvert St Nw, Washington, DC
Omni Shoreham Hotel
Washington Plaza Hotel

Washington Plaza Hotel

4 out of 5
10 Thomas Circle NW, Washington, DC
Washington Plaza Hotel
Hamilton Hotel Washington DC

Hamilton Hotel Washington DC

4 out of 5
1001 14th St NW, Washington, DC
Hamilton Hotel Washington DC
Generator Hotel Washington DC

Generator Hotel Washington DC

3 out of 5
1900 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC
Generator Hotel Washington DC
Glover Park - Georgetown

Glover Park - Georgetown

4 out of 5
Washington
Glover Park - Georgetown
The Churchill Hotel near Embassy Row

The Churchill Hotel near Embassy Row

4 out of 5
1914 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC
The Churchill Hotel near Embassy Row
State Plaza Hotel

State Plaza Hotel

3.5 out of 5
2116 E Street NW, Washington, DC
State Plaza Hotel
The LINE Hotel DC

The LINE Hotel DC

4.5 out of 5
1770 Euclid Street NW, Washington, DC
The LINE Hotel DC
Park Hyatt Washington

Park Hyatt Washington

5 out of 5
1201 24th Street, NW, Washington, DC
Park Hyatt Washington
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Smithsonian's National Zoo

At the Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, D.C., visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including animal encounters, feedings, and engaging in conservation efforts. Don't miss the enchanting Zoo Lights event during the holiday season. The zoo is part of the larger Smithsonian Institution, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment, while nearby attractions include live music, theatre, and shopping, making it a perfect spot for a memorable experience.

Shopping

At Smithsonian's National Zoo, you can enjoy shopping at CityCenterDC, just 3.2km away, featuring a mix of family-friendly shops and dining. Union Station Shopping Center, 4.8km away, offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Union Market, also 4.8km away, for unique finds.

Recreation

At Capital One Arena, enjoy exhilarating sports events and the vibrant atmosphere. The Cosmos Club offers a luxurious retreat with elegant dining and socializing opportunities. For ultimate relaxation, visit The Spa at the Ritz-Carlton, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and unwind in a serene environment.

Adventure

Explore Soapstone Valley Park, a scenic hiking trail 1.6km from the zoo, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For more adventure, venture to the Allegheny Passage, another hiking trail 4.8km away, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. Don't miss the nearby Pinery Trail for additional outdoor vibes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Smithsonian's National Zoo by catching a show at the Kennedy Center, just 3.2km away, or exploring the family-friendly United States Naval Observatory, 1.6km away. For a dose of culture and romance, visit Ford's Theatre, located 4.8km from the zoo.

Find the best attractions near Smithsonian's National Zoo

Whether you're seeking culture, family experiences, or the charm of urban parks, the Smithsonian's National Zoo and its surroundings offer a variety of attractions. Explore the National Zoological Park, visit local memorials, and discover historic houses nearby. For added convenience, consider accommodations like Hotel Lombardy, which is close to the zoo. Enjoy your visit to Washington, D.C., and immerse yourself in the rich experiences this vibrant area has to offer.

  • White House: Experience the iconic seat of the U.S. presidency, a symbol of American history and politics. The grandeur of this Civic Government Building showcases stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, providing a glimpse into the nation's heritage.
  • Walter E. Washington Convention Center: This modern event Conference Venue hosts a variety of conferences and exhibitions. With its spacious halls and cutting-edge facilities, it offers a vibrant atmosphere ideal for networking and business engagement.
  • George Washington University: Immerse yourself in the lively campus life of this modern College University. It boasts impressive architecture, diverse academic programs, and a dynamic urban environment, perfect for exploring student culture and innovation.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smithsonian's National Zoo

To save money on your visit to the Smithsonian's National Zoo, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are at their lowest. Saturdays tend to be the least expensive days for stays, while Tuesdays are the priciest. Take advantage of nearby free attractions like the National Mall and the Smithsonian Institution. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels and package deals that include flights and activities. Don't forget to filter for discounts and special offers to maximize your savings!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Smithsonian's National Zoo are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Smithsonian's National Zoo is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Smithsonian's National Zoo is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel that suits you best. To find the most affordable prices and special offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Smithsonian's National Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.