MAP IT
Giant pandas Qing Bao and Bao Li debut to the public on Jan. 24.
Pronounced BOW-lee, DC’s newest male panda was born on Aug. 4, 2021, making him the elder statesman of the pair. In Mandarin Chinese, “Bao” translates to “precious” and “treasure” while “Li” refers to vitality and strength.
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo does not charge admission, so you can visit Qing Bao and Bao Li in their renovated habitat on the Zoo’s Asia Trail without paying a cent. Passes are required, so make sure to plan your visit well in advance, as this pair of pandas are sure to be a popular attraction throughout the year.
The Zoo’s website has an awesome, in-depth primer on the history of giant pandas in DC. It originates with First Lady Patricia Nixon’s mention of her fondness for the cute creatures while at a dinner with Chinese Premier Zhou Entai in Beijing in Feb. 1972. After the historic presidential visit, Premier Entai gifted two giant pandas to the American people as a gesture of goodwill. Ever since the arrival of that initial pair – Ling-Ling (female) and Hsing-Hsing (male) – the pandas are a heartwarming reminder of the importance of cross-cultural collaboration and diplomacy.
While the giant pandas are a major attraction, they’re just two of the 1,500-plus animals that call the 163-acre Zoo their home. Habitats feature animals from 300 different species and about 25 percent of the zoo’s residents are endangered. All the animals at Smithsonian’s National Zoo – which is also a global research center and conservation center – are cared for by world-class zoologists and veterinarians.
While admission to the Zoo is free and federal resources cover essential needs, all conservation research and 74% of the giant panda program’s annual budget comes directly from the support of Zoo visitors, members and donors. You can support in a variety of ways.
From monuments and memorials to Smithsonian museums and more, the nation’s capital overflows with you-can-only-do-it-here, free-for-all activities. Take advantage of free Zoo admission by checking out other free attractions all over the District.
More About DC
