Most everyone in Columbia, and the surrounding areas, is familiar with Riverbanks Zoo. It is impressive, to say the least. We absolutely love visiting the zoo, not just for the animals, but for all the other amenities the zoo offers.Location
Address: 1300 Botanical Parkway, West Columbia, SC 29169
Waterfall Junction is located at the Botanical Garden. However, if you’d like to access it through the zoo, you can walk over the bridge from the zoo (the bridge is located near the carousel). There is also a free tram that goes between the zoo and Botanic garden.
Cost: For non-members, costs are as follows:
Adults (ages 13-61) – $24.99 + tax (online), $27.99 + tax (at the window)
Children (ages 2-12) – $21.99 + tax (online), $24.99 + tax (at the window)
Senior Citizens (62 and up) and Military: $22.99 + tax (online), $25.99 + tax (at the window)
Parking is free if you purchase tickets online, $5 if you pay at the window.
Hours of Operation: Open daily, 9am-5pm
Features
- 25 foot cascading waterfall
- Splash zones
- Playground area with slide
- Giant treehouses
- Play houses with sensory items on the walls
- Dinosaur dig (dig up dinosaur bones!)
- Large open field with games like giant Jenga, hula hoops, checkers, and bubbles
- Oversized musical instruments
- Rabbit holes to climb through
- An interactive garden area
- Concessions
- Cabanas for changing
What We Love About It
While the waterfall and splash pads are perfect for hot Carolina summers, Waterfall Junction is actually a great place for year-round play. And since there is easy access to and from the zoo, it’s a great option to extend your day at the zoo. In addition, since Waterfall Junction is located at the Botanic Garden, you and your family can not only enjoy playing and splashing in the water, but you can take in the beauty of the gardens.
Waterfall Junction also offers a variety of children’s classes and programs year-round. It’s also a fantastic place for a birthday party.
Things To Be Aware Of
- Since Waterfall Junction features both water and sand play, be sure you’re prepared for both. Bathing suits, water shoes, towels, baby wipes, and an extra change of clothes are a great idea!
- While some areas of Waterfall Junction do offer shade, there are also a lot of areas that do not. Be sure to lather up with sunblock, bring extra sunblock with you, and maybe even hats and sunglasses.
- There is a concession stand and food cart at Waterfall Junction. However, the prices can be a bit high and it’s not a huge selection of food and snacks. I suggest packing your own snacks and drinks to bring along.
- The water features are only open during the spring and summer. All other play areas are open year round.
- Water features close 15 minutes prior to park closing.
- Children ages 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
- Kids under four must be fully potty trained or wear proper swim diapers to use any water features.
Waterfall Junction is fun for the whole family! It’s a great place to play and explore all year long. So, pack your gear and head on over!
