Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens, is located in Lake Wales, Florida. It’s about an hour drive south of the Walt Disney World resort. Bok Tower is a National Historic Landmark renowned for its stunning gardens, historic architecture, and rich history. Spanning 250 acres atop Iron Mountain, the site offers visitors a serene retreat amidst lush landscapes and cultural treasures.

Attractions and Activities:

Singing Tower: At the heart of the gardens stands the 205-foot Singing Tower. An architectural masterpiece blending Gothic Revival and Art Deco styles. It houses a 60-bell carillon, offering daily concerts that fill the air with harmonious melodies. Find a peaceful spot to sit in the surrounding gardens and enjoy some mindfulness.

Gardens: The gardens are designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. They feature a variety of landscapes, including flowering meadows, serene reflecting pools, and diverse plantings that change with the seasons. The Pinewood Estate, a 20-room Mediterranean Revival mansion, is also part of the gardens and offers guided tours showcasing its historic architecture and furnishings.

Pine Ridge Trail: For nature enthusiasts, the Pine Ridge Trail provides a 0.75-mile path through a unique ecosystem, home to several endangered species. The trail offers insights into the region’s natural history and also conservation. Remember to take plenty of refreshments – depending on the season, it may be very hot whilst out and about in the gardens.

Visitor Center: The Visitor Center includes an exhibition detailing the history and ecology of the area, and, of course a gift shop, and café. The perfect spot for lunch. There’s also ample spaces around the ground to enjoy a picnic.

History:

The vision for Bok Tower Gardens was conceived by Edward W. Bok, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and former editor of Ladies’ Home Journal. In the early 1920s, Bok purchased land on Iron Mountain, aiming to create a tranquil sanctuary for birds and people. He commissioned the landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. to design the gardens and architect Milton B. Medary to build the Singing Tower. The gardens were dedicated on February 1st 1929, with President Calvin Coolidge participating in the ceremony.

Visiting Information:

Bok Tower Gardens is open daily, with an admission fee. The site hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, educational programs, and seasonal festivals. For the latest information on hours, events, and ticketing, you can visit the official website.

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, nature, or simply seeking a change-of-pace, and a peaceful retreat, Bok Tower Gardens offers a unique and enriching experience in Central Florida. Definitely one of my favourite places to visit.