Affordable outings that are fun for all the family don't get much better than Washington, D.C. National Zoological Park, a free zoo that is open all year round. Of course, that does mean that it’s often packed with crowds and strollers, but if you go off-season you can take in almost all the exhibits in one visit. These include 1,500 animals, ranging from rare pandas to giant salamanders, via elephant trails and lounging lions.

The National Zoo ticks off all the fall hike boxes: changing leaves, guaranteed animal sightings and well-paved, easy to walk trails. Due to COVID, you do need to reserve your free pedestrian pass prior to a visit (car reservations are now $30 and include entry for up to 4 visitors), but with well-controlled crowds you can rest assured that your walk in these woods will be socially-distanced. The Olmsted Walk, a .8 mile trail that winds from the front to the back of the zoo, is currently open.

The Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center pioneered Bird Friendly Coffee in the 1990s. Bird Friendly habitat ensures a mix of foliage cover, tree height, and biodiversity that creates quality habitat for birds and other wildlife. Certification provides farmers with a premium for their products, and because of stringent growing standards, the Bird Friendly program is also a critical asset in fighting climate change. Today 5,100 Bird Friendly farmers in 11 countries grow 34M lbs. of organic coffee.

Pose next to the beloved Smokey Bear, the poster animal for preventing forest fires, at the National Zoo. Along the commemorative trail, you will also see reproductions of vintage Smokey Bear posters and photos of the real Smokey Bear that once called this zoo home. Want to learn more about preventing forest fires? Check out smokeybear.com where kids can print out hands-on activities.

DC is one of the few places in the United States you can see pandas IRL. Check out DC's cutest residents at the National Zoo. While there, be sure to play in the Pollinator Playground and seek out your favorite creatures from tigers to bald eagles. Admission is free!