Planning a trip to Washington, D.C. with the kids? The Smithsonian National Zoo is a must-see stop—giant pandas, elephants, and all kinds of wildlife await! But after a fun-filled day, you’ll want a comfortable, kid-friendly place to stay nearby.
The good news? There are plenty of great hotels close to the zoo that cater to families, offering spacious rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to other D.C. attractions.
Let’s observe the best hotels near the Smithsonian Zoo for families—so you can focus on making memories, not worrying about where to sleep.
Location
The Smithsonian National Zoo is located in the Woodley Park neighborhood of Washington, D.C. This area is calm, green, and family-oriented—perfect for a zoo day followed by a relaxing evening.
Here’s a quick overview of hotels close to the zoo:
| Hotel | Distance from Zoo | Walk Time |
|---|---|---|
| Omni Shoreham Hotel | 0.3 miles | 7 mins |
| Marriott Wardman Park (closed, reopening TBD) | 0.4 miles | 8 mins |
| The LINE DC | 0.8 miles | 15 mins |
| Washington Hilton | 1.1 miles | 5 mins by car |
| Kimpton Glover Park Hotel | 1.6 miles | 7 mins by car |
Comfort
The Omni Shoreham Hotel is a classic choice for families. It’s just a short walk from the zoo and surrounded by Rock Creek Park, which adds to its quiet, natural setting. Rooms are spacious, and there’s a seasonal outdoor pool—a huge plus for kids in warmer months.
Family Perks:
- Cribs and rollaway beds available
- Kids’ welcome amenities
- On-site dining and coffee shop
Stylish
Located in the Adams Morgan neighborhood, The LINE DC is a former church turned into a modern boutique hotel. It’s not as close as others, but it’s still walkable and offers a more hip, artsy experience for families with older kids or teens.
Family Perks:
- Stylish and roomy loft-like suites
- Surrounded by local eats and fun shops
- Cool atmosphere for older kids
Budget
Want to save some cash? The Days Inn in the Forest Hills neighborhood is just a short drive (or Metro ride) from the zoo. It’s not fancy, but it’s clean, convenient, and great if you’re spending most of your time investigating.
Family Perks:
- Affordable rates
- Metro station nearby
- Family-size rooms available
Midrange
The Washington Hilton strikes a nice balance between affordability and comfort. Located a quick ride or longer walk from the zoo, it has everything you need for a smooth stay—big rooms, a pool, and multiple dining options.
Family Perks:
- Outdoor pool
- Breakfast buffet
- Pet-friendly
Quiet
Tucked away in a peaceful, leafy area, Kimpton Glover Park Hotel offers apartment-style rooms that are great for families. It’s a short drive from the zoo and close to Georgetown, making it easy to observe both.
Family Perks:
- Kitchenettes in some rooms
- Cribs and highchairs on request
- Yoga mats and wellness programs for the grownups
Comparison
Here’s a quick table to compare these top hotels:
| Hotel | Price Range | Best For | Distance to Zoo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Omni Shoreham | $$$ | Comfort + location | 0.3 miles |
| The LINE DC | $$$ | Stylish + unique | 0.8 miles |
| Days Inn | $ | Budget-conscious | 1.2 miles |
| Washington Hilton | $$ | Convenience + amenities | 1.1 miles |
| Kimpton Glover Park | $$ | Quiet stays + space | 1.6 miles |
Booking Tips
- Book early: Zoo visits are popular during spring, summer, and school breaks.
- Check for family packages: Some hotels offer discounts, free breakfast, or kid-specific perks.
- Use public transport: The Metro (Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan station) is nearby most hotels.
Staying near the Smithsonian National Zoo makes your family trip easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly, stylish, or luxurious, there’s a hotel nearby ready to welcome you and your little adventurers.
FAQs
What’s the closest hotel to the Smithsonian Zoo?
Omni Shoreham Hotel is only a 7-minute walk from the zoo.
Are there family-friendly hotels near the zoo?
Yes, Omni Shoreham, Washington Hilton, and Kimpton are great options.
Which hotel near the zoo has a pool?
Both Omni Shoreham and Washington Hilton have outdoor pools.
What’s the best budget hotel near the zoo?
Days Inn on Connecticut Avenue is a solid budget choice nearby.
