Last updated on 22 August 11

Historic Bok Sanctuary (formerly Bok Tower Gardens)

5.0/5 (1 ratings)

Photograph © Historic Bok Sanctuary
Photograph © Historic Bok Sanctuary
Photograph © Karl Gercens
Photograph © Karl Gercens
Photograph © Karl Gercens
Photograph © Karl Gercens
Photograph © Charlotte Weychan
Photograph © Charlotte Weychan
Photograph © Charlotte Weychan

Gardenvisit Editorial

Edward W. Bok, editor of the Ladies' Home Journal, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, humanitarian and philanthropist, spent winters on the Lake Wales Ridge, peninsular Florida's highest point at 298 feet above sea level. Liking the pines, the upland habitat, the dramatic sunsets and bird life, he decided to preserve the Iron Mountain hilltop and create a bird sanctuary. Mr. Bok called upon the finest artisans of the day to create the gardens and belltower. Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. was commissioned to design a subtropical garden. Philadelphia architect Milton B. Medary designed the majestic marble and coquina 205-ft. tall Singing Tower that houses one of the world's finest carillons. Master metalworker Samuel Yellin and sculptor Lee Lawrie's works adorn the Tower.

Head Gardener's Comment

As the world has grown more complex and its pace more hurried, there is one spot in the heart of Central Florida where time stands still and a sense of peace and tranquility prevail.

Bok Tower Gardens, a National Historic Landmark and one of America’s finest gardens, was dedicated in 1929 as a gift from humanitarian Edward Bok. The world famous Singing Tower and 60-bell carillon surrounded by historic Olmsted gardens, Pine Ridge Nature Preserve and Pinewood Estate create a haven for birds and wildlife.

In the rolling hills of citrus approximately 55 miles southwest of Orlando and 60 miles east of Tampa, near Lake Wales, Florida, Bok Tower Gardens is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., last admission at 5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $3 for ages 5-12. Members and children under five are admitted free. Carillon concerts are featured daily at 1 and 3 p.m.

Address - 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, Florida, USA, 33853
Opening times - Open 8am to 6pm 365 days a year
Admission - Adult admission starts at $10.
Website - Visit the Historic Bok Sanctuary (formerly Bok Tower Gardens) website

Local Hotels

Hotels within 30km as the crow flies from this garden.

Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Wales (5km away)
From $92.65 to $184.00
Hampton Inn Winter Haven (16km away)
From $129.00 to $129.00
Stay Plus Inn (18km away)
From $39.00 to $59.00
Southern Dunes by American Homes Network (24km away)
From $130.00 to $155.00
Quality Inn Maingate Four Corners (27km away)
From $35.96 to $89.95

Nearby Gardens

Gardens within 30km as the crow flies from this garden.

Cypress Gardens (FL) (13km away)

Reviews and Comments

Have you visited this garden?

over 2 years ago Charlotte said
This is an amazing garden and a wonderful place - unlike any other garden I have visited in the US. Once called America's "Taj Mahal", this is an extraordinary and very beautiful garden, featuring many unusual plants. Donated by Edward Bok to the American nation in 1929, you will see plants and trees here in their natural setting.

The overall impression is one of tranquillity and the Bok Tower is remarkable with its pink veneer, incredible tile work, brass door and carillon of bells. Make sure you're there when the Tower "sings" - you'll never forget the sound of this haunting music! Well worth making a special trip for if you're in Orlando.

(5.0/5)

See all the reviews of Historic Bok Sanctuary (formerly Bok Tower Gardens)

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