Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, Florida is a hidden gem that should not be missed by nature lovers and garden enthusiasts. Situated in the heart of Central Florida, this botanical garden offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in the state. The gardens sit in the middle of a sand ridge that runs through the center of Florida and is even visible from space.
One of the highlights of Bok Tower Gardens is the 205-foot Singing Tower. Perched at the top of the grounds, this tower offers breathtaking views of the surrounding town. What makes it even more special is the carillon of 60 bells that play beautiful music throughout the day, adding to the serene atmosphere of the gardens. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower for an even more breathtaking view of the surrounding area. We didn’t get to experience this on our visit. They weren’t running tours on it at that time. I would love to go back and check out that view! My personal favorite thing to do there was to take a blanket and sit on the hill overlooking the view while listening to the bells.
One of the highlights of Bok Tower Gardens is the 205-foot Singing Tower. Perched at the top of the grounds, this tower offers breathtaking views of the surrounding town. What makes it even more special is the carillon of 60 bells that play beautiful music throughout the day, adding to the serene atmosphere of the gardens. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower for an even more breathtaking view of the surrounding area. We didn’t get to experience this on our visit. They weren’t running tours on it at that time. I would love to go back and check out that view! My personal favorite thing to do there was to take a blanket and sit on the hill overlooking the view while listening to the bells.
The gardens themselves are a true work of art, with a diverse range of plants and flowers that bloom year-round. There are several different gardens to explore, each with its own unique theme and charm. The design and layout of the gardens are very uniquely put together, and the grounds are well-maintained. For example, the Mediterranean Garden is home to a variety of cacti and succulents, while the Pinewood Estate Gardens features a variety of native plants and trees. The Reflection Pool and Sunken Garden offer a serene and peaceful escape, with tranquil water features and blooming flowers. This was my favorite garden with giant lily pads that float atop.
In addition to the gardens, there are also several nature trails that wind through the property, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area. Most of the trails are wide, and have tall overhanging beautiful trees that cast a nice shade on the trail. Little hidden alcoves make for a charming pit stop along the way too. The trails offer a variety of different terrains, from wooded areas to open meadows, and are a great way to get some exercise and fresh air.
Bok Tower Gardens also offers a variety of educational programs, including guided tours, bird-watching, and gardening workshops. These programs are a great way to learn more about the history and ecology of the area and are suitable for people of all ages. On our visit, we got to walk along in the main building and hear about the history. We will definitely be taking another tour on our next visit.
In conclusion, Bok Tower Gardens is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Central Florida. The gardens are a beautiful and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and the Singing Tower is a truly unique and awe-inspiring sight. Whether you’re a nature lover, a gardener, or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, Bok Tower Gardens is sure to delight and inspire.
