Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, South Carolina, straddles the Saluda River on the former site of a Confederate-era railroad trestle bridge, with the zoo occupying the east bank and the botanical garden the west. Founded in 1974 and home to more than 2,000 animals representing approximately 350 species, Riverbanks consistently ranks among the highest-rated zoos in the southeastern United States for the quality of its naturalistic habitat design and animal care. Major habitat areas include the Birdhouse at Riverbanks, an immersive free-flight aviary; the Farm, a working interactive agricultural environment for children; the African Savanna with lions, white rhinoceroses, and African penguins; the Gorilla and Orangutan habitats with naturalistic climbing structures; Penguin Coast; the Sea Lion Arena; and the Aquarium-Reptile Complex featuring South Carolina's largest aquarium display. The zoo's newest major exhibits have centered on primate and pachyderm expansions in recent years. A 25-passenger gondola tram crosses the Saluda River to the 70-acre Riverbanks Botanical Garden on the west bank, which features a walled rose garden, an Old English kitchen garden, a cactus and succulent desert, and a butterfly garden. The ruins of the 1848 Saluda Factory textile mill — one of the first in South Carolina — frame the botanical garden's eastern entrance, providing a historic industrial backdrop to the horticultural displays. A 1927 railroad bridge converted to a pedestrian footbridge also connects the two banks. The zoo complex offers multiple dining options, stroller and wheelchair rentals, and shaded seating throughout. Summer extended hours allow evening visits when temperatures cool and nocturnal animals are more active.
Good to know
- Hours
- Daily 9 AM - 5 PM (summer extended hours to 6 PM)
- Best time
- Weekday mornings in spring or fall when animals are most active and crowds smallest
Location
500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210
34.0432, -81.0668 View on map
Highlights
- 2,000+ animals in 350 species across naturalistic habitats including African Savanna, Gorilla habitat, and Penguin Coast
- Free-flight Birdhouse aviary and Aquarium-Reptile Complex with South Carolina's largest aquarium exhibit
- 70-acre Riverbanks Botanical Garden across the Saluda River, with a walled rose garden and historic 1848 mill ruins
- Sea Lion Arena with daily behavioral demonstrations and keeper talks
- Gondola tram crossing the Saluda River connecting zoo and garden sides
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at opening (9 AM) on weekday mornings in spring or fall — predators and primates are most active in the first two hours
- Buy tickets online in advance during summer and spring break to avoid the ticket window queue; timed-entry slots book quickly on peak weekends
- Cross to the botanical garden via the gondola tram in the late morning, when the zoo side becomes busiest, then return for afternoon animal activity
- Stroller and wheelchair rentals are available at the main entrance — the zoo covers significant ground and younger children benefit from strollers
- Parking costs $5 per vehicle; the I-26 / Greystone Blvd exit provides the most direct approach from the interstate
When to visit
Weekday mornings in spring (March–May) or fall (September–November) offer the most active animals, fewest crowds, and most comfortable temperatures. Summer offers extended evening hours when the heat subsides; arrive early in summer to avoid peak midday heat on the outdoor exhibits.
Accessibility
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is largely wheelchair-accessible with paved paths through the main zoo exhibits and the botanical garden. Wheelchair and electric scooter rentals are available at the main entrance. The gondola tram to the botanical garden accommodates wheelchairs. Some terrain on the Saluda Factory trail in the botanical garden is unpaved and uneven.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden take?
The zoo alone takes 3 to 4 hours for a thorough visit. Adding the botanical garden across the river extends the total to 5 to 6 hours. Many families with children make a full day of it, particularly in summer when extended hours apply.
Is Riverbanks Zoo suitable for young children?
Yes — the Farm area is specifically designed for young children with interactive animal contact, and the Sea Lion Arena demonstrations hold children's attention well. Stroller access is available throughout both the zoo and botanical garden.
Is Riverbanks Zoo and Garden accessible for wheelchair users?
The zoo and botanical garden are largely accessible to wheelchair users, with paved paths throughout most exhibit areas. Wheelchair and electric scooter rentals are available at the main entrance. Some hillside sections of the botanical garden have steeper grades; the tram to the garden is accessible.