Explore Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Explore Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Located in Columbia, South Carolina, the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is one of the top-rated zoos in the United States. With over 2,000 animals and 170 acres of botanical gardens, there’s no shortage of things to see and do at this popular attraction. Here are some of the top things to do when exploring the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden.

Get Up Close with Animals

One of the most exciting things to do at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is to get up close and personal with the animals. Visitors can get close to giraffes, feed lorikeets, and even touch a kangaroo in the Kangaroo Walkabout. The zoo also offers behind-the-scenes tours for those who want an even closer look at the animals.

Explore the Botanical Gardens

The Riverbanks Zoo & Garden isn’t just about animals; it’s also home to 70 acres of beautifully landscaped botanical gardens. The gardens feature a variety of themed areas, including the Walled Garden, the Old Rose Garden, and the Woodlands Walk. Visitors can also take a walk through the lush, tropical rainforest in the Birdhouse.

Take a Safari Tour

For a unique experience, visitors can take a safari tour through the African Plains exhibit. The guided tour takes visitors through the savannah and provides an up-close look at animals like zebras, ostriches, and antelopes. The tour also includes a stop at the giraffe feeding platform, where visitors can feed the giraffes.

Ride the Riverbanks Carousel

The Riverbanks Carousel is a classic carousel with 36 hand-carved animals, including horses, giraffes, and lions. The carousel is located in the heart of the zoo and is a fun ride for visitors of all ages.

Attend Special Events

The Riverbanks Zoo & Garden hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including Boo at the Zoo, Lights Before Christmas, and Summer Nights. These events provide a unique and exciting way to experience the zoo and gardens.

Visit the Aquarium Reptile Complex

The Aquarium Reptile Complex at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is home to a variety of aquatic and reptile species. Visitors can see turtles, alligators, and a variety of fish and other aquatic animals. The complex also features an interactive touch tank, where visitors can touch and feed stingrays and other marine animals.

Take a Zipline Adventure

For the adventurous visitor, the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden offers a zipline course that takes visitors high above the zoo and gardens. The course includes 10 ziplines, two sky bridges, and a zip line over the Saluda River.

In conclusion, the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Columbia, South Carolina. From getting up close with animals to exploring the botanical gardens, taking a safari tour, riding the carousel, attending special events, visiting the Aquarium Reptile Complex, or taking a zipline adventure, there’s something for everyone at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. So, add this popular attraction to your travel itinerary and experience the wonders of the animal kingdom and botanical gardens.