I am a hard core botanical garden fan,something you probably don’t hear often, and enjoy visiting them whenever I have a chance. My kids feel the same way about zoos, telling me often which animals they want to visit most. We were able to experience the best of both worlds at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, located in Columbia, South Carolina.
Recently remodeled and expanded, we began our tour at the new Sea Lion Landing, which features daily feeding educational experiences, describing the training given the sea lions to help keep them happy and healthy in their new habitat. An underwater viewing display is available, allowing visitors the chance to get “Up close and personal” with the Sea Lions.
One of my favorite parts of the exhibit was the sculptures and pictures made from trash in the sea and rivers, prompting discussions of why we need to keep our water supplies clean. Our experience included a behind the scents tour, available for an additional fee, of the Sea Lion Landing. We were able to talk to the keeper, along with watching private training sessions of the Sea Lions. Riverbanks is passionate about the health and safety of their animals and it shows through the devotion of their staff.
Our adventure continued with a trip to their new and expanded gardens and children’s area. Encompassing over 70 acres, the Gardens include Waterfall Junction, an amazing children’s play space and water area, along with 10 gardens. The kids area was popping when we visited, overflowing with children splashing, chatting and entertaining themselves in the nearby green space.
Once we entered the nearby gardens, the atmosphere changed. Although located directly beside Waterfall Junction, these 10 garden areas were tranquil. Sound was muffled, blocking the noise of children, and creating a dreamy atmosphere for a romantic outing or for settling into a secluded corner with a book for some “me time.” No wonder Horticulture magazine has declared it to be one of 10 gardens that inspire and HGTV has called it one of 20 great public gardens across America.
Tip: The walk from the zoo to the gardens is up a steep incline. You can take a free trolley between the two.
If you have never been to the garden or the zoo, you could easily spend a day in each attraction, reading up on the facts on the animals or spending time in the gardens. If you live near the area, you might want to consider a membership, which would be a bargain for keeping the kids active throughout the summer!
Have you visited the Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens?
We love going to the zoo and this looks like such a nice one to go with the family! My baby would be delighted to see those sea lions
Oh my gosh, what a great idea for them to make the sculptures and pictures from materials from trash. My grand kids love going to the zoo and if we’re ever near this one, I know we’ll visit it.
Looks like a great place to visit with Family. We need to explore SC more.
This zoo is only a couple of hours away from me. It looks like a great place for a weekend day trip. I have not been to a zoo in a while. Looks like fun.
Looks fun and a garden too? How cool! I need to make another trip to the zoo here soon.
That looks like a gorgeous zoo and garden!! I wish there was something like that around where I live!!
The Riverbanks zoo and garden looks like a great place to visit indeed. They look like they have something for everyone there and I would also enjoy seeing the sculptures. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Gardens are so beautiful and they are worth going to, especially during the summer. I’m glad you enjoyed your visit, I mean, it’s hard not to with all the lovely things to do here!
This zoo looks like a really fun outing! We try to visit our local zoo as much as we can (weather permitting). Looks like y’all had a blast!
How fun! I love sea lions. We haven’t been to the zoo yet this year. I think we’ll do it in the fall…maybe for my four-year old’s birthday.
I love visiting different zoos across the country. My family would love to visit this beautiful plsve
My kids love going to the zoo. We always check out the local zoo when we’re on vacation. My family would love to explore this place.There’s so much to see here!
While I’ve been to Columbia, SC I haven’t been to Riverbanks. Looks lovely. I do love myself gardens, too! 🙂
I Would Love To Take The Kids It’s Gorgeous All The Beautiful Plants & Sites To See!!
Yes many times! Isn’t it fun? We live about 10 miles from there and my favorite part is the gardens though the zoo is awesome too.