* The giant pandas: The National Zoo's giant pandas, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, have long been fan favorites. Their playful antics, adorable appearance, and the enduring fascination with these endangered species make them a major draw.
* The elephants: The zoo's Asian elephants, including their matriarch, Ambika, have also generated significant attention and affection. Their intelligence, social bonds, and majestic presence have made them iconic figures at the zoo.
Ultimately, the "most famous" animals might depend on individual preferences, but these two groups are certainly among the most beloved and widely recognized residents of the National Zoo.