Planning a Trip to the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington DC? With Kids? 5 Things to Know Before you Go!

Last week our family took a homeschool field trip to the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington D. C.!

Entry is free, and with parking at a flat fee of $30, it was totally worth the hour drive. We had a blast, especially my youngest as this was his first time at the zoo. The way he lit up with excitement when he saw some of his favorite animals in real life, nothing compares! Aside from the African Trail being closed for renovations… the zoo owes us nothing!

Trips with little people can be wildly unpredictable and still a lot of fun if you prepare accordingly. In today’s post I wanted to share a few things that I hope will help you to have the best experience if you’re planning a visit to the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington DC with your little people. Let’s get into it.

1. Pack snacks and/or a light lunch

Yes, outside food is allowed, and comes in handy after all the walking. There are plenty of benches and even tabled areas to sit and enjoy a quick bite. I always plan to pack a little something since my children have food allergies, and it was right on time each time we stopped for a break. So fill your water bottles, and pack your bags for a wonderful day of learning, fun and exploration!

2. Bring a stroller or something with wheels

Strollers are also allowed, and I’m so glad I thought to put our double stroller in the car. And my 5 yr old still fits comfortably. It was a total win. Mostly, our littles wanted to walk, but when their little legs needed a break, I’m so glad we had that stroller ready! I saw so many parents struggling to carry and help their little people walk from one exhibit to the next… especially the walk from the “bottom of the hill” (more on this later). I can’t emphasize this enough… there is A LOT of walking, even for an adult. So strollers, and comfy shoes. You’ve been warned. Prepare accordingly.

3. Start at the “bottom of the hill”

Speaking of walking, when it comes to how to visit the exhibits of the zoo, start at the “bottom of the hill” (where the lions and tigers are), and work your way up.

We made the mistake of going up to the pandas, then to the middle for the enclosed exhibits… back up again looking for lions, and then all the way down to the “Bottom of the hill” because that’s where the lions and tigers ACTUALLY live 😭. Can you say TIRED! The walk from the bottom to the top is already a whole journey, but to have done it unintentionally two times… Lawd have mercy. I was legit huffing and puffing walking back up. Thank God for the carousel in the middle which was a great place to take a break. Daddy rode it twice with the kids, lol. But hear me when I tell you… We won’t get got again with that walk! A word to the wise.

4 Grab Binoculars for the kiddos

I didn’t buy these binoculars for the trip to the zoo, but I’m so glad I had them on hand. They were such a fun addition to our trip!

My littles enjoyed getting a close up look at the animals, especially at the more crowded exhibits. These are great for little people. They have a comfort grip, neck strap, and a 2x magnifier built in, which means they don’t need to do any adjusting. Grab your kids a pair, I promise you won’t be disappointed!

5 Live in the moment wit your kids

Don’t let my videos and pictures fool you, I am very intentional about living in the moment with my kids, which is what they will often remember most. From playing eye-spy while walking around, to engaging with them as we enjoyed the different exhibits, to talking with them and listening/answering their MANY questions about the different animals… they know momma is present. Yes, this momma needs and enjoys her breaks. I created a whole self care guide just for that! Just know that for adventures like this… I’m all in!

Are you planning a trip the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington D.C.? Planning to take your littles? Was this list helpful? I would LOVE to hear from you. Be sure to share your thoughts below!