Since its opening in 1929, the Bok Tower Gardens has captivated millions with its beauty. Gifted to the state by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edward William Bok (1863-1930). The beautiful spectacle hides in plain sight in Lake Wales, Florida. What strikes many visitors fancy to visit is the 205-foot neo-Gothic and Art deco Singing Tower designed by architect Milton B. Medary.
The gardens were created to inspire wildlife and nature conservation in all of us. Which is why all donations and admission fees go into conserving the gardens and to local conservation groups.
As a natural oasis filled with plant life, the Bok Gardens offers wonder in its architecture. Famous for its Tower the entrance is held with a large brass door which depicts the Book of Genesis created by metalworker Samuel Yellin. He has also worked both in Washington’s National Cathedral, Washington D.C and Cathedral of St. John the Divine, New York, NY.
This Garden is a must see, but I'm sure you'r wondering what does it cost and what is there to do?
But what’s the damage?
The admission prices are reasonable. The tickets are $21 for adults and $5 for children age five through 12. All military personals are given free access to military associated holidays. As with memorial day approaching all, military personals would enter for free.
When it comes to getting a bargain the early bird truly gets the worm, as on Saturday you take 50 percent off all tickets purchased between 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. As for when to go in the year, the earlier the better. Spring is when most of the native Floridian plants are in full bloom.
What is there to do?
Whether it is a romantic getaway or a family retreat the Bok gardens offers something for all. With children take the Hammock Hollow trail. It is specifically designed to inspire adventure and discovery in children while giving adults a view of the beautiful landscape.
For adults wanting to enjoy the scenery make your way to the reflective pool. Or the peace lantern that was created as a tribute from Usaburo Tsuijita of Japan.
What about the food?
The gardens have that covered. The Blue Palmetto Café features salads, soups, sandwiches, and specialty desserts. Reviews show that the food is delicious on both the adult and children’s menu, but has been reviewed as over priced.
Keep in mind that you can bring your own food for a beautiful outdoors picnic.
Bring your Camera: Photography is open for both personal and commercial use in the gardens. They encourage you to spread the word and share it online.
Everything ends in a gift shop: The gift shops holds many unique items from jewelry, books, clothing and much more. If you want to save money, you can always view their shop online and purchase something at a later date.
Important things to note: If you are looking to spend the day be sure to take this into consideration.
There are many beautiful stone paths, but don't be shy to take the mulch pathways. From the visiting center, it’s an eight-minute walk to the tower so bring comfy shoes. Be sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife as the gardens hold many exotic animals including 126 different birds, the threatened gopher tortoise, and the endangered eastern indigo snake.