Photo Gallery | Riverbanks Zoo ranked in nation’s top 10

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has been named one of America’s Top 10 zoos by TripAdvisor—the world’s largest travel site.

The TripAdvisor Popularity Index released Wednesday touted Riverbanks as the fourth best zoo in the nation for its ability to provide guests with up-close animal exhibits and interactive attractions. According to one TripAdvisor traveler, “Riverbanks Zoo is the perfect family outing.”

“Riverbanks is extremely honored to once again be recognized as one of the top zoos in the United States,” said Satch Krantz, executive director of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. “We are delighted that TripAdvisor travelers are spreading the word about the Zoo and Garden and what makes Riverbanks South Carolina’s largest and most popular tourist attraction.”

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is home to more than 2,000 animals that represent more than 350 species from around the world. The Zoo offers guests daily animal encounters and presentations as well as several interactive attractions including giraffe feedings and the all-new Sky-High Safari—a 4-story vertical ropes challenge course.

The top 10 zoos include:

1. Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NE

2. St. Louis Zoo, Saint Louis, MO

3. Cape May County Park & Zoo, Cape May Court House, NJ

4. Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Columbia, SC

5. Memphis Zoo, Memphis, TN

6. San Diego Zoo, San Diego, CA

7. Sedgwick County Zoo, Wichita, KA

8. Brevard Zoo, Melbourne, FL

9. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, CO

10. Audubon Zoo, New Orleans, LA

“The exotic sights and sounds at these zoos offer travelers a virtual round-the-world trip, without the price tag,” said Karen Drake, senior director of communications at TripAdvisor. “Whether it’s gazing at gorillas or peeping at penguins, these wildlife sanctuaries offer herds of fun for adults and children alike.”