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This new attraction in Columbia is worth seeing šŸ‘€

Riverbanks Zoo & Gardenā€™s much-anticipated new aquarium and reptile conservation center is now open.

March 6, 2023 • 
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, Michaela Leung
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A preview of the desert biome at the new Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Aquarium & Reptile Conservation Center.

The renovations were made possible through support from The Boyd Foundation, transforming it into a state-of-the-art animal care facility.

Photo provided by Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

Itā€™s o-fish-al: Things just got wilder at Columbiaā€™s Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, which just opened a brand new recreational and education facility (and we couldnā€™t be more ex-sssited). šŸ

The Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Aquarium & Reptile Conservation Center gives guests an engaging experience and a chance to see the zooā€™s wildlife conservation efforts first-hand.

A child looking at a new feature at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden's latest attraction.

Now, guests can explore temperate and tropical forests, trek through the desert, and wind their way from land to sea in an immersive journey.

Photo provided by Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

The immersive experience provided by the new center will feature:

  • Conservation Labs: See hands-on work that was previously only experienced during behind-the-scenes tours.
  • Coral Lab: Get an up-close view of the critical role Riverbanks plays in protecting coral reefs. The lab showcases colonies of corals that were rescued off the coast of Florida near Key West.
  • Terrestrial Lab: Take a look at endangered reptiles and amphibians from around the globe and learn about Riverbanksā€™ work supporting populations of geckos, plus collaborative projects protecting SCā€™s most endangered wildlife.
  • Desert Biome: This new immersive habitat features desert dwellers like tortoises, rattlesnakes, and Gila monsters, as well as thick-billed parrots and burrowing owls.

Other highlights:

  • Floor-to-ceiling views of some favorite aquatic + reptilian residents
  • A giant wall of moon jellies
  • In the coming weeks, guests will have a chance to meet a giant octopus named Susan (in honor of Susan Boyd and her favorite animal).

Donā€™t be jelly and miss all of the fun. Swim on over and explore Riverbanksā€™ new Aquarium & Reptile Conservation Center. Plan your visit.*

LEARN MORE + PLAN YOUR VISIT