The weekend is just around the corner, and the weather app on your mobile phone tells you that it is going to be a bright, sunny day. This is your time to get out after so many days of the Covid wave and enjoy a wonderful time with your friends and family. The things on the to-do list may be plenty, but the one on the top is visiting the National Zoo. A visit that provides a comprehensive package of fun and learning. Peeking up the curiosity of our mind while still combining it with new sights and adventure for the soul, a stroll through the National Zoo is the perfect getaway from the worries of today and a rejuvenating break. Now In this we article we will see Does National Zoo Have Wheelchairs?
What is special about the National Zoo?
National Zoo also known as the Smithsonian National Zoo is situated in the capital city of the United States, i.e. Washington D.C. foundation was laid in the year 1889. It offers free-of-charge visits through the wonders that it has preserved over time. More than 2 million people tend to visit it each year, making it one of the most popular relaxing spots in the country. It is a part of the world’s largest museum and research complex, known as the Smithsonian Institution.
The National Zoo is spread over an area of 163 acres in Rock Creek Park and has over 1,800 animals from 360 species. The splendid amount of diversity that is exhibited and presented there, is second to none in the world. The presence of these wildlife promotes the commitment toward conservation.
There are several fun activities to do there like enjoying ‘The Good of the Hive’ mural at The Great Ape House, relaxing at Me and the Bee playground, and riding through a delighted spin at Speedwell Foundation Conservation Carousel. But before going to the National Zoo, we must determine how accessible it is for specially-abled people.
Does the National Zoo have wheelchairs?
Determining the accessibility of a place is crucial to see how receptive they are to the needs of their visitors. Especially in a place where knowledge and fun walk hand in hand, it becomes essential to make it a great experience for everyone. The National Zoo provides one of the most accessible services in the country in terms of accommodating people with special needs. It equips people with various alternatives to enjoy all the different exhibits without any hassle.
At the Smithsonian National Zoo, one can easily find wheelchairs and electric vehicles for rent for easy movement. It also has special entrances and a reserved parking area for one’s convenience.
What are the rental charges for renting wheelchairs?
The manual wheelchairs available at the National Zoo are free of cost and thus require no payment in the form of rent or deposit. While for the Electronic vehicles there is a charge of $25 for members and $30 for non-members. Furthermore, to access the electronically operated vehicles, one must have a driver’s license issued by the state demonstrating that they are capable of handling it.
Where can you rent a wheelchair from at the National Zoo?
The Manual wheelchairs can be availed of from the Information Desk which is near Parking Lot A and also from the Information Stations at Parking Lot A&B i.e. Panda Plaza, and from Parking Lot D at the Lion/Tiger Hill. Whereas, for renting the Electronic vehicles, one must approach the Visitor Center Information Desk and the Information stations at the Panda Plaza and Lion/Tiger Hill.
What areas are accessible in the National Zoo through wheelchairs?
The National Zoo is operated under the Federal government and thus complies with all the requirements of the ADA standards ( Americans with Disabilities Act). Therefore, the zoo is accessible on a wheelchair and has the Visitor Center Lobby, where a lift will provide wheelchair users a trouble-free reach to water fountains, washrooms, souvenirs shops, etc. But what must be kept in mind is that this zoo is built on hilly terrain and, thus, few regions could seem difficult to reach.
If you still face any difficulty or need assistance you can easily approach the authorities at any of the Information stations or the parking booth area. You can also contact them by calling the Guest Services Office at 202-633-4480 for further information and inquiries.
Conclusion
A visit to get exposure to nature and feel closer to it must be authentic and accessible for all. As a society, we must ensure that specially-abled people do not feel stressed out about their movement just because they want to experience a zoo visit. They must be able to navigate around easily and have access to basic necessities like restrooms, shopping, parking, etc. Incorporating this facet to design a space demonstrates affirmative actions. National Zoo’s compliance with ADA requirements makes it wheelchair friendly.
Faqs
- Are there wheelchairs available at the National Zoo?
Yes, wheelchairs are available at the National Zoo to make the visit comfortable for everyone.
- How much does a visit to the National Zoo charge?
There is no entry charge to visit the National Zoo. Although, you must book the entry passes in advance before your visiting schedule through their website.
- Do we have to book wheelchairs before visiting the National Zoo?
The wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-serve basis at the National Zoo.
