The following is a list of the most frequently asked questions:
Do you offer a military, senior or group discount, or a special discount day?
Riverbanks offers discounts to military families with military ID ($10.75), seniors over age 62 ($10.75), and groups of 15 or more who register at least two weeks in advance. [ Click for Group Information ]
Riverbanks also has Free Fridays in January and February for residents of Lexington and Richland counties with valid picture ID. Public school groups in Richland and Lexington county school districts receive free admission with pre-registration as stated above. Please call 803.779.8717 x1601 for group registration information and restrictions.
Would Riverbanks be willing to donate complimentary passes for my organization's fundraiser or event?
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is pleased to have the ability to provide a limited number of complimentary passes to various organizations within the community. Due to the increasing number of requests, Riverbanks has developed a policy to help determine whether or not an organization is eligible to receive complimentary passes. Please read Riverbanks' Complimentary Pass Policy to determine if your organization is eligible.
Are all of the animals out all times of year? When are they most active?
All animals are on exhibit daily except in cases of extreme heat, extreme cold, exhibit repairs or medical reasons -- all of which are fairly rare occurrences. In general, animals are most active when they first go on exhibit at opening and as they prepare to return to their evening quarters just before closing.
I am doing a project on an animal. Where can I get information?
Visit the Animals section of the Riverbanks Web site to find facts on many of the animals on exhibit at the Zoo. Whenever you see a Zoo Minutes icon along the left-hand side of the animal facts page, be sure to download the educational video clip for additional information presented by ETV. Or, check the Related Links page for other animal-conservation resources on the Internet.
I would like to volunteer at Riverbanks. How do I get started?
If you are interested in volunteering with Riverbanks to "Discover the Adventure," please complete and mail the Volunteer Application and Background Check Authorization Form(*require Adobe Reader). The Volunteer Coordinator will review your application and contact you to discuss volunteering with Riverbanks. An interview will be scheduled to allow the coordinator to learn more about your interests, experiences and commitment to volunteering.
I would like to apply for a job at Riverbanks. What should I do?
Please visit our Job Opportunities page and review our Current Job Openings. This list is updated weekly. All job opportunities are posted here. We welcome applications via fax, email, mail or walk-in. We prefer not to accept applications for positions that are not currently open or from applicants who are not currently available. All applicants receive notice of receipt of their application, however only the top candidates for each position are contacted via telephone.
I never knew you could be a member of Riverbanks! What's the advantage?
All members of Riverbanks Society are entitled to unlimited daytime visits to the Zoo and Garden for one full year, free guest passes, one free visit to the Lights Before Christmas, a subscription to Riverbanks magazine, discounts at our gift shops, education programs and adventures, and much more! For more information or to join, visit the Riverbanks Society Membership page, contact us at societyinfo@riverbanks.org or 803.779.8717 x1111 or x1239, or you can join at the ticket booth on your next visit.
If you are not sure whether membership will be right for you and your family until after you visit the Zoo, bring your paid admission receipt to the ticket booth on the same day of your visit, and we'll apply it toward membership at that time.
Are wheelchairs available at the Zoo?
Non-motorized wheelchairs are available through ARAMARK Entertainment, the food and gift services company at Riverbanks. Wheelchair rental is $6.00, with a $5.00 deposit required. No advance reservations are accepted.
Are strollers available at the Zoo?
Single, double and jeep strollers are available through ARAMARK Entertainment, the food and gift services company at Riverbanks. Rental fees range from $6.00 to $9.00. A $5.00 deposit is required. No advance reservations are accepted.
I have an engraved brick at Riverbanks. How can I find it?
To locate an engraved brick in the Zoo or Garden, please contact the Society Office at societyinfo@riverbanks.org or 803.779.8717 x1117. To help expedite the search, please identify the name of the person who originally purchased the brick.
We will be coming to Riverbanks from out of town. Can you suggest hotels, restaurants and other things to do in the Columbia area?
Can I host a birthday party for my child at the Zoo?
At this time, Riverbanks does not offer birthday party packages for children. Riverbanks does offer discount admission tickets for pre-registered groups of 15 or more, and 10-packs of Safari Bucks*, which can be used for interactive activities such as Carousel rides, giraffe feeding and 3D Theater features, are available for a discount at the front gate. Additionally, there is a public picnic area adjacent to the main Zoo entrance where groups can gather for picnics and presents. Due to limited storage space and Riverbanks' exclusive catering contract with ARAMARK, cake, ice cream and other outside food and beverages are not allowed through the gates or in the park. The smallest meeting space available is 3,000 square feet (capacity - 100) and rents for $500 a day.
*Effective March 1, 2010, Safari Bucks will be discontinued.
