Riverview Park & Zoo

Description

Riverview Park & Zoo is one of those places that sneaks up on you—in the best way possible. It’s not a massive, flashy zoo with towering enclosures or endless crowds, but rather a charming, relaxed space where you can slow down and actually enjoy the animals, the scenery, and the people you’re with. The grounds have a mix of open green areas, shady walking paths, and more than 25 animal exhibits, ranging from playful lemurs to stately camels. And because it’s part zoo, part park, you’ll find kids running between the splash pad and playground while parents sip coffee on benches nearby. There’s even a mini-train ride that adds a touch of nostalgia—reminding me of the little trains I used to beg my parents to ride at fairs when I was a kid.

What makes this place stand out is its accessibility and thoughtful design. Wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking make it easy for everyone to get around, and the whole layout feels manageable—you’re not trudging miles between exhibits. Sure, it’s not perfect; on busy days, you might find the splash pad packed or the train line a bit long. But there’s a laid-back atmosphere here that makes those small inconveniences easy to overlook. It’s the kind of spot where you can spend an hour or an afternoon, depending on your mood, and still feel like you’ve had a full day out.

Key Features

• Over 25 diverse animal exhibits, from exotic species to familiar farm animals
• Spacious playground designed for a range of ages
• Fun splash pad area to cool off on warmer days
• Mini-train ride that loops through scenic parts of the park
• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking
• Free parking lot for convenience
• Onsite payment options including credit, debit, and NFC mobile payments
• Kid-friendly atmosphere perfect for birthdays or casual family outings
• EV charging station with J1772 connector (slow charge)

Best Time to Visit

If you want to catch the animals when they’re most active, aim for early mornings or later in the afternoon. Midday in the summer can be quieter in the enclosures because the animals, much like us, prefer to chill in the shade when it’s hot. Spring and early fall are particularly nice—you get cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and gorgeous foliage along the river. Weekdays tend to be less busy, so if you’re not tied to a weekend schedule, that’s your golden ticket to a more peaceful experience. And if you’re visiting in summer, bring a change of clothes for the kids so they can make the most of the splash pad without a soggy ride home.

How to Get There

Reaching Riverview Park & Zoo is pretty straightforward whether you’re driving or using public transit. For drivers, there’s a free parking lot right on-site, which is a rarity these days and a huge plus. If you happen to drive an electric vehicle, there’s a J1772 charging connector available, though it’s a slow charge—so think of it more as a top-up while you wander rather than a full recharge. Public transit routes drop you within walking distance, and for cyclists, the surrounding roads and trails make for a pleasant ride in. Just keep in mind that weekends can bring heavier traffic around the park entrance, so plan a little extra time if you’re on a tight schedule.

Tips for Visiting

First off, don’t underestimate how quickly the hours can slip by here. Even if you think you’re “just popping in,” between the animal exhibits, playground, splash pad, and train, you’ll likely end up staying longer than planned. Wear comfortable shoes—while the park isn’t massive, you’ll still be on your feet a lot. If you have little ones, bring swimsuits and towels for the splash pad, plus a change of clothes. The mini-train is a hit with kids, so if you want to avoid long waits, try riding early in the day.

Food-wise, you can pack a picnic or grab snacks nearby, but having your own picnic setup means you can pick a shady spot and take your time. And here’s a small but important tip—keep an eye on the weather. The park is beautiful on sunny days, but a light drizzle can actually make it even more enjoyable because the crowds thin out and the animals often perk up. Lastly, take a moment to just sit and watch the river; it’s easy to get caught up in the activities, but those quiet minutes by the water are part of what makes Riverview feel special.

Location

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