Driving along US 27 in Central Florida past small cities and towns you don’t recognize (Davenport, Haines City, Dundee, and Lake Wales to name a few) and open farmland is part of the Polk County experience.
Compared to Orlando and Tampa, the two cities this stretch of Central Florida lies between, Lake Wales is just a blip on the radar. But it’s home to one treasure worth the drive from anywhere: Bok Tower Gardens.
Alongside sunrise hot air balloon flights and hang gliding, Bok Tower is part of my argument in support of Polk County’s appeal for locals and visitors.
Set on a hill 298 feet above sea level, Bok Tower Gardens is a lush sanctuary. Winding paths lead to secluded benches and places for reflection. Mulched and paved trails guide the way to the gigantic, iconic 205-foot tall Singing Tower, from which carillon bells chime daily. The on-site cafe provides fuel for your explorations, and a Tuscan-style estate home awaits discovery.
The Gardens were founded by Edward W. Bok, an immigrant from the Netherlands who established the Gardens with the help of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. Bok presented the Gardens as a gift to the public in 1929 as a “thank you” for the opportunities presented to him in America.
Today, you can visit the gardens and stroll the grounds, letting time slip away for the afternoon. Here are a few highlights:
1. The Singing Tower
The 205-foot Singing Tower is no doubt the centerpiece of the Gardens, standing tall and coming alive with the sound of the chiming carillon bells daily. You’ll get a peek-a-boo view from various spots throughout the Gardens, but nothing compares to the stunning view from the Reflection Pool. This is probably Polk County’s most Instagrammable spot.
Once you’ve pried yourself away from the Reflection Pool, spend some time walking around the tower from all angles. Hidden pathways will lead you to interesting places, like the stone Peace Lantern.
In front of the tower, you can buy some fish food to feed the Koi fish. Edward W. Bok’s grave is directly in front of the gold door at the base of the Singing Tower.
2. Gorgeous Blooms
If you’re a flower fanatic I recommend holding off your visit until spring. During peak bloom season, the Gardens transform into a burst of pinks, whites and purples thanks to hundreds of blooming azaleas and camellias. I was in awe of the spectacular colors and at a loss for words at the beauty. (Yes, I am a flower nerd.)
The exact time for peak bloom changes every year, but this year it was around late February/early March.
You can see what’s in bloom during your visit by looking for the “what’s in bloom” display outside of the Visitor’s Center.
The Wild Garden is a gorgeous place to check out the native flora, especially in the summer months when the funky purple passion flowers are blooming.
3. Scenic Views
The dramatic view behind the Singing Tower can come as a bit of a shock for Floridians used to the state’s primarily flat terrain. The tower itself is situated on Iron Hill, which, according to the gardens’ website, is one of “peninsular Florida’s highest points.” It’s one of my favorite views in Central Florida.
Beyond the scenic Reflection Pool and Singing Tower, there are plenty more beautiful places to press pause. I’ve visited the gardens plenty of times, but I always manage to find something new.
A few of my favorite pretty spots include:
• The Window by the Pond (you’ll probably have it all to yourself)
• The Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden
• The boardwalk through the Wild Garden
• The Reflection Pool in front of the Singing Tower
• The gold door at the base of the Singing Tower
4. The Magical Secret Garden Vibes
Bok Tower Gardens is a relatively large place. So even on a busy day, it’s likely you’ll find extended moments of solitude. You’re free to roam off the path into large, open lawns to curl up underneath a tree. Or, you can sit inside the Window by the Pond and watch a free show, compliments of Mother Nature. You’ll feel like you’re in your own personal secret garden.
No matter how many times I visit, I’m still in love with the Gardens’ interesting details, like giant lily pads, the iconic gold door (I take a photo of it every single time) and the semi-hidden Peace Lantern.
5. Lunch at the Blue Palmetto Café…and edible cookie dough
If you’re getting hangry (happens to the best of us), the Blue Palmetto Café has surprisingly yummy options for breakfast and lunch. I love the chicken salad sandwich (served on a croissant) and can also vouch for the salads. They’ve even got beer and wine.
But let’s be real, my actual favorite offering at the cafe is the edible cookie dough. The Butterfinger flavor is so good. Only go for the 6 oz serving if you’re sharing. Otherwise, the 3 oz. is plenty.
6. The Pinewood Estate
It’s impossible to miss the stunning Mediterranean-style Pinewood Estate when en route to the Singing Tower. The home is open daily for self-guided tours, although you’ll have to pay an extra $6. If you decide to skip the tour (I still haven’t done it…one day!), the grounds are beautiful and worth roaming on your own. I love the mosaic tiles out front and the large open lawn out back.
If you’re visiting around the holidays, the home gets decked out in Christmas decor for the season. This would be an ideal time to spring for the tour.
7. Hiking trails
For an extra dose of nature, explore the Preserve Trail (1.5 miles) and Pine Ridge Trail (0.75 miles). The former begins at the entry gate and ends at the Visitor’s Center. The latter is accessible from within the Gardens, near the Window by the Pond.
8. Live concerts and events
Bok Tower Gardens hosts tons of fun events, including farm dinners and cooking classes, wine walks, yoga and Tai Chi, and live music events.
Check the event calendar for upcoming Bok After Dark events. These after-hours events include live music plus a live carillon bell concert. Seasonal concert series are also offered.
Info + Tips
Bok Tower Gardens is open daily from 8am-6pm. The last entry each day is at 5pm. Regular admission is $14.
There are several free admission days throughout the year, including Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day September 22, 2018. Active duty military (with I.D.) always receive free admission, and retired military are free on select holidays. If you have a membership to another garden, you may be able to get into Bok Tower Gardens if your membership has reciprocal benefits.
Are you a Florida resident? There’s currently a promotion for 50% off admission through the end of August. Show ID at entry and ask for the discount when buying your tickets.
You’re allowed to bring your own picnic basket and blanket to enjoy. There are picnic tables outside the entrance, but you’re also free to set up a picnic anywhere in the Gardens as long as you’re respectful.
Pets aren’t usually allowed, although I saw a special summer promotion earlier this month in which they’re temporarily allowed for a small admission price. Call ahead to confirm before bringing your pup along.
All photos by Stephanie Patterson
