Waterfall Junction at Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens

The debut of Waterfall Junction completes phase two of Destination Riverbanks—the zoo's $36-million expansion and development project. Imaginations will blossom in this three-acre garden oasis that encourages children of all ages to explore and care for the natural world.

Guests will discover a fountain of fun around every corner. Pop in and out of rabbit holes, unearth a life-size replica of T-Rex, frolic between giant tree houses and kid-sized play houses, splash around and under a 25-foot cascading waterfall, and run or relax on a grassy meadow. In addition, programs designed to inspire budding imaginations will take root in the Norman and Gerry Sue Arnold Learning Center and Amphitheater.

"We are thrilled to finally offer this extraordinary experience to our members and guests," said Satch Krantz, president and CEO of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. "Both kids and their parents and grandparents will be amazed by the size and scope of Riverbanks' newest attraction that will provide hours of entertainment and enhanced educational opportunities."

Waterfall Junction will open to the public on Thursday, April 7, with a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. Refreshments will be provided.

Admission to Waterfall Junction is free with paid general admission to the zoo and garden.

Down the road, the final phase of Destination Riverbanks will come to fruition with the opening of Sea Lion Landing on June 9. The exhibit is a replica of San Francisco's Pier 39 and will offer guests various vantage points for watching these fin-footed favorites in action.

Guests also will soon have safer access to the zoo by way of a pedestrian bridge. The bridge, slated for completion late this summer, will cross over the railroad tracks between Riverbanks' new parking area on Rivermont Drive and the main zoo entrance.