Follow glowing animal lanterns and illuminated pathways on an after-dark family outing at the Zoo.
The plan
Follow glowing animal lanterns and illuminated pathways on an after-dark family outing at the Zoo.
The experience
ZooLights is a seasonal nighttime visit to the National Zoo. Choose it for the holiday light experience rather than assuming it is the same as a daytime animal visit. A timed booking gives the evening a clear starting point.
Plan your visit
Selected nights run November 20–January 3. Published event hours are 5–9pm Monday–Saturday and 5–8pm Sunday. December 16 is an adults-only night with a separate $19 ticket including a drink; member nights on December 8 and 9 have their own arrangements.
Tickets and useful details
General admission is $10 with a timed ticket. Parking is separate, $30 in advance or $40 on the day. If you are comparing costs for a group, add parking to the admission total rather than judging the outing by the ticket price alone.
Before you go
General tickets are $10. Last entry is 30 minutes before closing; Sundays end at 8pm, other public nights at 9pm. December 8–9 are member nights and December 16 is a separate $19 adults-only event. Parking is $30 in advance or $40 on the day.