This is one of Travel DC With Kids! all time favorite places to go. We can easily go the the National Zoo, 3 or 4 times a year and never be tired of it.

It is best if you park in the lot at the bottom of the hill and walk up the hill while you and the kids are fresh. We usually start to the left and visit the Bears, Amazonia (a must see for the super huge fish), and the Bird section. This puts you at the top of the hill and the Zebras.

At lunch time, we bring sandwiches and eat on the picnic tables by the snack bar. If you buy the food there, be prepared for airport food prices! After lunch we walk down the hill and see the Pandas, Elephants (don't forget the new Baby Elephant!), and Reptiles.

As there is no admission charge for the Zoo, if the kids are tired leave and do what you missed the next time. Parking should cost about $5 or so for several hours of fun.

Don't miss the Reptile House and the Great Ape House. The Gift Shop is a real treat, and has many toys for just a dollar or two so you won't break the bank buying a souvenir for the kids.

Directions: Off of Connecticut Ave. in the District of Columbia in the NorthWest section of the City a little bit North of DuPont Circle. Check your map as it is very confusing to drive in this area.