Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

About

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is one of the Southeast's most beloved attractions, home to more than 2,000 animals and a stunning 70-acre botanical garden along the banks of the Saluda River in Columbia, South Carolina. Since opening in 1974, it has grown into a destination that draws over a million visitors each year, and it's done so while keeping accessibility a clear priority.

The zoo side features animals from around the world, organized into immersive habitats. You'll find African elephants, Grizzly bears, Galápagos tortoises, sea lions, and an impressive collection of birds and reptiles. The aquarium and reptile complex brings you face-to-face with sharks, coral reef fish, and fascinating cold-blooded creatures. Many exhibits use floor-to-ceiling glass, which works well for visitors at different heights and vantage points.

Across the river, the botanical garden offers 70 acres of themed gardens, woodlands, and historic ruins. The gardens are lush and well-maintained, with seasonal plantings that change throughout the year. Spring brings azaleas and wisteria, while fall showcases ornamental grasses and changing foliage.

Connecting the zoo and garden is the Saluda Skyride, a gondola system that carries guests high above the river. It's universally accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, moving up to 1,600 guests per hour and offering uninterrupted panoramic views along the way.

Practical details worth knowing: the zoo is open year-round, with seasonal hours that shift between summer and winter. Parking is plentiful and close to the entrance. There are multiple dining options throughout the grounds, from quick-service spots to sit-down restaurants. A gift shop sits right at the main entry plaza.

For families, the interactive Waterfall Junction splash area and the Farm are popular stops. Educational programs run daily, and keeper talks give you a behind-the-scenes look at animal care. Whether you're spending a few hours or a full day, there's plenty to fill your visit without feeling rushed.

Accessibility

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is largely accessible to visitors with mobility needs. All exhibits, restrooms, trams, restaurants, and gift shops are wheelchair accessible. The park is handicapped accessible except for the upper portions of the Woodlands Walk, a forested trail section that may have uneven terrain.

Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent at the Riverbanks Gift Shop in the zoo's main entry plaza. The venue allows manual and electric powered wheelchairs, electric scooters (3 and 4 wheel models), and manually powered mobility aids such as walkers, canes, crutches, and braces.

The Saluda Skyride gondola connecting the zoo and botanical garden is universally accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. Power assist entrance doors are located at the Boyd Plaza entrance facing Hampton Street and at the Main Street entrance.

Some visitors who use wheelchairs have noted that certain exhibit railings may be at eye level when seated, which can partially limit views at a few locations. However, most exhibits across the zoo are reported as accessible by wheelchair users who have visited.

For sensory accommodations and additional accessibility services, contact Riverbanks Guest Relations directly before your visit. They can provide current details on any quiet spaces, assistive listening devices, or special programs that may be available. The zoo's Guest Relations team can be reached through the official Riverbanks Zoo & Garden website for the most up-to-date accessibility information.

More accessible places in South Carolina

• South Carolina State Fairgrounds (Columbia)
• Congaree National Park (Hopkins)
• Charles Pinckney National Historic Site (Mount Pleasant)
• Cowpens National Battlefield (Gaffney)
• Ninety Six National Historic Site (Ninety Six)
• Reconstruction Era National Historical Park (Beaufort)