What Is It?

Bok Tower Gardens is a national historic landmark in Lake Wales. The gardens have drawn millions of Florida visitors since its opening in 1929. The gardens were a gift from Dutch immigrant Edward W. Bok to express his gratitude for the opportunities the United States presented him.

History

Wanting to create a place to inspire others and touch hearts, Edward worked alongside landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. to produce the Singing Tower, gardens, a reflection pool and more. The gardens were created from 1924 to 1928. The tower’s construction began in 1927 and concluded in 1929.

The Property

Bok Tower Gardens features two hiking trails, 50 acres of gardens, the 20-room El Retiro Estate, and the 205-foot art deco and neo-Gothic Singing Tower carillon. The gardens are unique because they offer a different experience on every visit to Central Florida. No two days are the same at Bok Tower Gardens due to the ever-changing environment and seasonal blooms.

Olmsted Gardens

The historic landscape garden offers tranquil resting spots and picturesque views, while also acting as an ever-changing work of art. The gardens include 126 different species of birds, as well as the threatened gopher tortoise and endangered eastern indigo snake.

More Info

Bok Tower Gardens is in the central part of the state. The gardens are open 8 a.m. to
6 p.m., 365 days a year. Adult admission is $17; children ages 5 to 12 can access the gardens for $5; and those 5 years and younger can enter for free. If the family pup decides to join in on the fun, their entry fee is $5. For more information, call 863-676-1408 or visit boktowergardens.org.