Bok Tower Gardens

Posted on January 25th, 2009 by karyn

Bok Tower Gardens is the brainchild of Edward W. Bok. In 1921, while enjoying the beauty and serenity of Lake Wales, he was overcome with the idea to preserve the hilltop of “Iron Mountain” as a bird-sanctuary. After years of digging, laying water pipe, and trucking in thousands of loads of rich black soil, Bok Tower Gardens was born.

Today more than 100 species of birds call Bok Tower Gardens their place of refuge, and thousands of visitors come to enjoy all this truly beautiful spot in southern Florida has to offer.

Visitors can take a relaxing stroll along the Pine Ridge Nature Trail; a ¾ mile trail that weaves through Longleaf Pines, Turkey Oaks, and dense Perennial grasses that cover the ground throughout. You will also see the bog garden, a stunning open glade, and one of the most endangered ecosystems in the entire world, a sandhill forest community. When your time in the forest is over, you can enjoy the Singing Tower.

This 205-foot tower is an architectural masterpiece designed by famed architect Milton B. Medary, and crafted by stone sculptor Lee Lawrie. It houses a 60-bell carillon. The tower isn’t open to the public, but you may delight in the daily concerts from the carillon, and stand in awe at the majestic artwork that makes up this exquisite tower. You may also want to stop in at the museum on the grounds or pop in for a bit to eat at the Blue Palmetto Café. But, more than anything else don’t miss out on the peace and tranquility found within The Gardens.

Considered one of the most notable achievements of landscape architect, Fredrick Law, the meandering garden is like no other garden you will ever visit. The numerous shades of green made up from ferns, palms, oaks and pines are but a sampling of the brilliant color that explodes onto this outdoor tapestry when the flowers bloom each year. And, most astonishing are the Victoria Water Lilies.

These water lilies span five foot from edge to edge, and are adorned with 12 inch blossoms. So strong are they, photographers have pictured children actually sitting on them! For more information about these unique lilies visit www.victoria-adventure.org.

Bok Tower Gardens is open daily, year-round. For further information about visiting Bok Tower Garden visit www.boksanctuary.org.

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