Even if you don't live nearby, become a FONZ (Friends of National Zoo) member and get free on-site parking, free animal crackers for the kids, 10% discount at shops, reciprocation at others zoos (http://nationalzoo.si.edu/JoinFONZ/RecipZoo/#reciprocity), and discounts on stroller rental (because I agree you need a stroller at this zoo!!). Family membership is $60 and you can do it ahead of time online or in person. Membership is effective immediately and 100% of it is tax-deductible!!!! So go ahead become a member and support a wonderful program, have a great day, and feel good about it!

I recommend parking at the bottom lot right near the petting zoo...that way at the end of the trip when you are tired you are walking downhill. The zoo is setup linearly and so you have to walk back the way you came to get to your car.

The zoo recently had to send back the young panda, but both his parents are still there. They are in the process of constructing a massive elephant trail, but you can still see the elephants and an elephant show despite the construction. On warm sunny days, the orangutans can cross the park via the O-line (quite a sight!!!). When its really hot, you can go to the indoor exhibits or be cooler by the multiple misters. The landscaping at this zoo is also beautiful.

Have fun!!! We always do!

I can't rave enough about all the programs this place offers. There are programs for adults as well as kids (http://www.montgomeryparks.org/brookside/childrens_programs.shtm). Most are free. Admission to the gardens is free (its a public garden) but some exhibits and programs have a fee. They have an uber cute kids play area with garden play area (think dirt instead of sand), a real treehouse (which I want in my own backyard), fairy houses, and building table. In the early fall we dressed the kids as fairies and my photographer friend took pics. It was the perfect backdrop!

Right now in the summer they have an amazing Butterfly Garden open until Sept 20th which costs $6 per adult and $4 kids 3-12. Which is definately worth the price! A few warnings...butterflies need a hot environment so expect to sweat, sometimes the exhibit closes due to extreme heat call this number before going "Wings of Fancy" Hotline: 301-962-1453, and no strollers allowed inside (bummer).(http://www.montgomeryparks.org/brookside/wings_of_fancy.shtm)

In the winter, they have an amazing light display called "Garden of Lights" that you walk through...but be forewarned lots of people will alway want to attend so either get there before dark or expect to wait in a long car line waiting to park (though they do have an efficient parking system). Hours are from 5:30-9 (last car admitted at 8:30pm. It costs $15 to park on weeknights and $20 on weekends...but again worth it!http://www.montgomeryparks.org/brookside/garden_lights.shtm

Have fun!

This hotel is right in the thick of midtown Manhattan which is perfect if you have little ones, as it enables you to sight see for as long as they can handle and then head back for naps, then back out again without missing a beat.

They give the kids a "backpack" on check-in, which had litle trinkets, cups, and snacks inside. They also had outlet covers available if needed.

Room service was cheaper than some places around the hotel (stay away from the TGIFridays near Rockerfeller Center...$12 kids meals...yes $12 each!!! don't ask how much a salad cost).

We will defiantely stay here again!!!

Be prepared the place is always packed! If you are even slightly claustrophic stay away!!! Not stroller friendly but also not toddler fiendly...catch 22. I used my stroller anyway because I was to afraid of the damage my little one would cause. That being said, if I was to do it over I would have just taken my older daughter and probably enjoyed the experience more. We didn't do any of the services (lunch, hair, etc) but I know you have to book way ahead so don't expect to make a same day appt.

As a native New Yorker, I have to agree with the other 2 reviews. The location is far better and the view is also better. You actually have less barriers (though still safe) here than on the Empire State Building. The interactive lightroom is great. I have a pic and I wil lhave to try and post it. My youngest prefered the lights to the view...ahhh what does she know???