Riverbanks Zoo and Garden celebrates 50th anniversary alongside governor
COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — With more than 2,000 animals, the 170-acre Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is South Carolina’s largest gated attraction.
“This is a wonderful zoo and garden,” said Gov. Henry McMaster at Friday’s anniversary celebration.
Since 1974, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has been drawing in visitors to the Midlands.
“I remember when it began and here we are today,” the governor said. “When I look at this, I reflect on the greatness of our people, the things they have done and the things they are going to do.”
The zoo houses species of mammals, birds, reptiles and fish. The zoo’s CEO says that most popular exhibit is usually the sea lions.
“The aquarium is probably one of our next biggest attractions,” said Tommy Stringfellow, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden CEO. “The fish are always moving and we have an incredible collection of reptiles in there. Gorillas are also high on the list because they are active.”
Riverbanks also focuses on the conservation of species. The zoo can hold up to 34 endangered animals at a time including the upcoming addition of a komodo dragon exhibit.
“We had a donor who wanted to see us breed Komodo dragons because they are endangered as well,” Stringfellow said. “We didn’t have a big enough facility so the donor decided that’s where they wanted to focus their money.”
The new additions to the zoo won’t stop with Komodo dragons.
“We also are bringing in some black bears that are native to the region,” said the zoo’s CEO. “We are hoping this expansion will teach South Carolina more about what used to live here and what’s endangered here. There will be some red wolves that will be coming.”
The zoo plans to also add additional services such as a restaurant on the Saluda River for its 1.3 million annual visitors.
“We think over the next two to three years, we will see our attendance continue to grow and our impact on the Midlands to increase even more,” Stringfellow said.
The zoo is funded by state grants as well as private donors. Recent grants have gone towards infrastructure improvement and making up for revenue loss during the pandemic.
