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The 168-acre National Zoo is a year-round favorite of tourists and residents alike. Rare white tigers, elephants, giraffes and hundreds of other creatures populate the park. Here old-style cages are rare and many natural habitats are recreated.

The zoo grounds and buildings are free and open to the public daily, except Christmas Day, weather permitting. The grounds are open May 1 to September 15 from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm, September 16 to April 30 from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. The buildings are open May 1 to September 15 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, September 16 to April 30 from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm, unless otherwise posted. Guided tours are available weekend mornings on a limited basis by reservation only. Reservations should be made by calling the tour office at (202) 673-4955. Parking is fee-based.