Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Dine & Entertain / Entertainment & Venues

500 Wildlife Parkway
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 779-8717
[email protected]
A wide paved entrance area of a zoo, surrounded by trees and modern wooden buildings. Families with strollers and people walking in the sunny area. A large sign with "Riverbanks Zoo & Garden" is visible above the entrance. A man holds a child as they watch sea lions swim in an aquarium. The child reaches out towards a sea lion close to the glass. Two other sea lions swim in the background amidst underwater rocks. A group of people, including children and adults, observe fish swimming in a large aquarium. The scene is dimly lit, highlighting the glow of the water and fish. The children lean against the glass, captivated by the marine life. Two lions at RIverbanks Zoo Columbia, SC An outdoor aquarium scene with people observing seals in a large pool. The area has trees and buildings with an overcast sky. Some visitors lean on a railing, while others walk nearby, enjoying the view of the aquatic life. A sea lion is high-fiving a man wearing a blue shirt and beige shorts on a wooden platform. The man holds a white stick and has a pouch attached to his waist. Wooden pillars are visible in the background. Botanical garden view of water fountain Flamingos on a sandy shore at Riverbanks Zoo Columbia, SC A woman and a child are kneeling on the floor, smiling and touching a glass enclosure. Inside, a turtle is visible. The setting appears to be an indoor exhibit, with a door in the background. A young girl in a striped shirt and jeans smiles while sitting near a glass enclosure. She is looking at an iguana inside. The background shows foliage and rocks. A woman and a child are bending down in a garden, surrounded by colorful flowers and greenery. They appear to be exploring or examining the plants. The sun is shining.

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, nestled along the Saluda River in the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, is a must-visit destination for animal and nature lovers alike. Opened in 1974, this expansive zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden spans 170 acres and is home to over 3,000 animals and more than 5,700 varieties of plants. It’s one of the largest mid-sized zoos in the United States and is South Carolina’s leading destination attraction, boasting a national reputation as one of America’s best zoos and drawing in over one million visitors annually.

The zoo offers visitors a chance to explore diverse animal habitats that house fascinating fauna from all corners of the globe. Whether you’re walking alongside giraffes in the African Savanna’s Giraffe Overlook, watching penguins dive into icy waters or marveling at the vibrant species in The Birdhouse, there’s always something new to discover. The zoo’s emphasis on animal welfare, conservation, and education makes it a standout destination. 

Riverbanks’ mission is to create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, Riverbanks plays a significant role in wildlife conservation efforts both locally and globally; Riverbanks is recognized as a global leader in animal care and welfare, education, recreation, science, and wildlife conservation.

But Riverbanks is more than just a zoo! Its stunning botanical garden, spread across 70 acres, is a lush paradise filled with themed gardens, beautiful walkways, and diverse plant collections from around the world. From tranquil rose gardens to exotic plants in the Asian-inspired walled garden, nature lovers are sure to enjoy the serene beauty that makes this one of the nation’s most inspiring botanical gardens.

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions including interactive exhibits, animal feeding opportunities, the Sky-High Safari,  the Spots & Stripes Railroad, and the Endangered Species Carousel. With its commitment to education, conservation, and recreation, it’s the perfect destination for family outings, school trips, and special events. Riverbanks holds several annual events including Boo at the Zoo, Brew at the Zoo, ZOOfari, and Wild Lights.

After a day of adventure at the zoo, be sure to explore the local restaurants, charming attractions, and cozy accommodations in Columbia and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re visiting for the animals, plants, or the fun attractions, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is a place where nature comes to life! 

Visit Riverbanks Zoo’s website for more information about their animals, attractions, events and educational opportunities.

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden’s Accolades:

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