Riverbanks Zoo Park

Address: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210, United States

Website: https://www.riverbanks.org/

Hours: Typically daily 9:00am-5:00pm (seasonal variations); check website for current times

Admission: Adults typically around $24.99 (check website for current pricing); garden access may be included

Riverbanks Zoo is a combined zoological garden and public botanical garden located in Columbia, South Carolina, adjacent to the Saluda River.

The attraction contains a range of animal exhibits and cultivated garden areas spread across substantial grounds, including themed habitats for African and other world fauna alongside collections of ornamental plants. The site also offers educational programming and seasonal events aimed at families and school groups.

The zoo opened in the 1970s and was developed as a regional zoological and horticultural facility; it has expanded over time with new exhibits and garden areas to accommodate growing collections and visitor services.

Situated in Columbia near downtown, the site sits on riverfront land with parking and pedestrian access from nearby roadways and is a short drive from the city’s central neighborhoods.

• Combined attraction: The site combines a zoo and a botanical garden on the same property, so expect both animal exhibits and curated plant collections during a visit.
• Visitor tip: Located along the Saluda River, the grounds include paved paths and some hilly terrain; comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

What to See#

• Zoological park: The zoological area contains the animal exhibits, habitats and interpretive buildings that make up the park’s core collection of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.
• Botanical garden: The botanical garden features cultivated plantings, themed beds and formal garden areas that are maintained alongside the zoo and open to visitors year round.

Riverbanks is about 10 minutes northwest of downtown Columbia via US-378/US-76. There is ample parking on site and occasional shuttle services from central Columbia for special events. Use Wildlife Parkway to reach the main entrance.

• Buy timed-entry tickets online to avoid ticketing lines on busy weekends.
• Allow a full afternoon to see the zoo and Riverbanks' botanical gardens separately.
• Bring a camera with a telephoto for animal portraits - some exhibits keep visitors at a respectful distance.