Free Fridays Return to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

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Free Fridays: Every Friday in January and February 2024. Residents of Richland and Lexington Counties can receive free daily admission to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden every Friday during the months of January and February with proof of residency (e.g., valid driver’s license, property tax statement or vehicle registration).

Penguin Cam: Are you feeling a little sluggish? Do you want to put a little pep in your step (or waddle as the case may be)? Then take a look at Riverbanks’ penguin live-stream here. Whether it’s rockhoppers hopping, or kings standing regally, a live look at these feathered favorites is sure to put a smile on your face.

Upcoming Events

Wine Tasting: Friday, April 19. For the 21st year, 2024’s Wine Tasting at Riverbanks Botanical Garden will be the premier event for the spring. Stroll under the lights and sip a variety of wines in one of the nation’s most beautiful and inspiring gardens.

Golden Anniversary: Thursday, April 25. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is turning 50 and wants to celebrate with you. Keep your eyes open for special deals and fun activities coming your way in this milestone year.

Riverbanks Run: Saturday May 11. Lace up your shoes and make tracks to Riverbanks for the wildest 5k run of the year. It’s time to break a sweat to benefit wildlife conservation.

Members’ Night Out: Friday May 31. The first of three member appreciation evenings for Riverbanks members only. Stroll through the Zoo and spot some of your favorite animals before the sun goes down. Enjoy special members-only deals and activities for the whole family.

Riverbanks Backstage: Tickets are available for the Spring Backstage season at Riverbanks. Get an inside look at animal care, meet some of your favorite animals and learn about the Zoo’s efforts to protect endangered species! Each encounter is a private experience for your group, and all proceeds support the care and conservation of plants and animals at Riverbanks and beyond. Whether you want to chill out with the penguins or prep diets for our sea lions, all of Riverbanks’ backstage tours provide a unique experience that you’ll remember for years to come. For more information on all available tours, please visit the Plan Your Backstage Visit page on the Riverbanks website.

Visit riverbanks.org for details on these and other signature events at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is home to more than 3,000 magnificent and fascinating animals and one of America’s best public gardens. The Zoo opened on April 25, 1974, and for five decades, has connected individuals, families and school children with the natural world. Riverbanks is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is recognized as a global leader in animal care and welfare, education, recreation, science and wildlife conservation. It is the mission of the Zoo and Garden to create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation. For more information, visit riverbanks.org.