Washington, District of Columbia
The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, commonly known as the National Zoo, is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. Located within Rock Creek Park, it is home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of species. The zoo is world-renowned for its giant panda program, currently hosting pandas Qing Bao and Bao Li, who arrived in early 2025 to continue the zoo's legacy of panda conservation.
Admission to the zoo is free, making it a popular destination for families. In addition to pandas, visitors can see Asian elephants, great cats, and primates, while learning about the zoo's global efforts to save wildlife and habitats. It combines recreation with a serious mission of education and species preservation.