While taking photos at a wildlife reserve in Lakeland, FL, I met a photographer who told me about the Bok Tower Gardens. Upon leaving the reserve, I immediate set my GPS to the Bok Tower Gardens, and I was not disappointed. The bushes, flowers, trees and other landscape were beautiful, and the tower itself is a sight to see. I recommend a visit.
Don't miss the carillon concert - sit and enjoy the peaceful setting while listening to the music. The nature walk and gardens are beautiful and make for a wonderful area to hike or relax.
If you like botanical gardening, Florida Flora, Florida history, natural beauty--don't miss this. It is worth driving an extra hour (or two or three) to see. The tower is a gem. A spring visit will reward you with many blooming plants, but there is always something blooming in Florida. Plus, the ridge plants are fascinating. DO NOT MISS THIS.
The tower is a majestic, Florida treasure. Make sure you visit on a day that has live music played on the carillon, and sit in the benches in the viewing area. You will be able to watch a live video feed of the musician as he is playing the carillon. We also enjoy eating lunch at the café located on the grounds.
Beautiful tower with majestic carillon music. Listened to two beautiful concerts and met the performer after concert. Gardens were very pretty although there was some construction of new plantings. Approached the tower site through expansive and very fragrant orange groves. Well worth stopping at this location. Have been driving near it for over 30 years and decided to stop and visit. Will go back when have more time. Staff was very helpful even keeping our small dog in the office area when he did not like the kennel. Very good visit and very helpful staff.
The grounds were just beatiful the place is quite and serene. This was a very nice break for us and we enjoyed the day. Don't miss the carillon it is a unique sound. Mr. Bok should be proud of his contribution to Florida.
The gardens are wonderful and the tower is spectacular. Just a great way to spend a few hours. Work is in progress for ADA compliance.
Since I love to garden, I just had to see this place while I was visiting Florida.....great place to spend the day and enjoy the outdoors while walking around. There were still plenty of blooms on the plants even at the end of Feb. and I was also able to enjoy seeing varieties we can't grow in Maine. Will be back next year for sure and see it a bit earlier. My husband and I enjoyed our day.
The visitors center is a good intro to the amazing tower and gardens. We went in March and the camellias and azaleas were in full bloom. Many different attractions to see as you meander down the paths.
It's only taken me 30 years but.. Today I crossed the moat, climbed the marble stairs, and explored beyond the Great Brass Door. It was spectacular! Everything I imagined it would be. Members at the Sustainer Level and above are invited to an exclusive tour of the Founder’s Room inside the Singing Tower. Membership for two was only $100 and includes admission to Bok Tower Gardens for an entire year. I would've paid that just to see inside the Tower! The tour started with free catered breakfast and presentation in the Magnolia room. A leisurely stroll through the gardens to the Tower. Once inside the Founder’s Room, you notice the soaring pink marble walls, intricate marble windows (each one carved in place from a single block of stone), hanging wrought iron lanterns, massive marble fireplace, antique furniture, and elaborate tile floor. The nature theme of the garden and tower are continued throughout the room. There's also an original 1928 Otis elevator (the oldest in Florida). Our guide was friendly, entertaining, and knowledgable. Amazing tour that I will never forget. Highly recommended!