One of Florida’s best hidden gems is the Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. I’ve been lucky enough to visit Bok Tower twice in the past six years. Upon entry, you are greeted by Edward Bok’s quote “Make the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it.” His mission was to create a beautiful area that people could visit, enjoy nature, hear beautiful music, and come away a little bit better. The gardens were skillfully designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr (who also designed Central Park, the White House grounds, Jefferson Memorial grounds, and the National Mall). The Singing Tower is simply stunning – both visually and the music it produces.
Bok Tower – Olmsted Landscape Gardens & Singing Tower
During the holiday season of November 29 to January 5, you can visit the neighboring Pinewood Estate and Gardens. This restored 1930s Mediterranean style mansion was built for Charles Austin Buck, vice president of Bethlehem Steel. He would come down for a couple of months a year. Each year, they decorate the house and provide self guided tours. Each room is decorated differently and reflect a theme based the family, nature, or traditions.
Pinewood Estate Holiday Tour 2019
Bok Tower Gardens has a lovely restaurant Blue Palmetto Cafe, informative Visitors Center and Museum, and The Shop at Bok filled with a huge variety of Florida goodies and even your own plants to take home. A visit to Bok Tower will leave you feeling peaceful, one with nature, and a phone full of photos. It is a great location for making family memories!
The Gardens are open 365 days a year – 8am – 6pm. boktowergardens.org