Now that the pandas are back, when's the best time to visit them? According to News4's Eun Yang and Tommy McFly, you'll get the most out of your visit in the colder months.
Bao Li and Qing Bao will greet the first National Zoo visitors on Jan. 10, 2025. Now, only zoo members will get to see the pandas from Jan. 10-19, the zoo says. The general public can see the pandas for the first time on Jan. 24, 2025.
When visiting the pandas, go in the morning when the zoo first opens. December, January and February are great times to go since the furry bears love the cold air.
When the panda exhibit is open to the general public, make sure to get a free daily entry ticket to guarantee your entry.
In the meantime, here are some travel tips to get to the Zoo.
Parking and traveling by Metro
If you're driving, the National Zoo requires reserving a $30 paid parking pass before your visit. All cars must enter through the main vehicle entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW.
Pedestrians can enter the Zoo through 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW and Harvard Street Bridge.
Here's a pro tip if you're taking the Metro: Take the Red Line and get off at the Cleveland Park station to walk downhill to the Zoo.
To avoid walking back uphill to Cleveland Park, walk downhill and leave at the Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan station.
Check the National Zoo's website for more information on how to get there.
