Bok Tower Gardens & Lunch
Inspired by his beloved grandmother’s words— "Make you the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it"—Edward W. Bok, born in the Netherlands, brought this vision to life in the rolling hills of Lake Wales.
In 1922, Bok began with a modest 25-acre bird sanctuary. Over time, his dream blossomed into today’s breathtaking 250-acre gardens and sanctuary, featuring historic El Retiro estate, Pine Ridge Trail, Wetland Boardwalk, Great Brass Door, themed gardens, visitor center, gift shop, Blue Palmetto Café and more.
When the garden was complete, Bok remembered the resounding music from the bells of his native land, and he decided to build a carillon tower. At the heart of Bok Gardens is the iconic Singing Tower, a magnificent 205-foot carillon tower surrounded by tranquil reflecting pools. Home to 60 bronze bells ranging from 16 pounds to an astounding 11 tons, the tower fills the gardens with music each day. Guests enjoy live 30-minute concerts at 1 and 3 p.m., with bells chiming every hour.
Bok’s passion for blending architecture and music lives on through world-renown Belgian carillonneur Geert D’Hollander, who calls Bok Tower "the Holy Grail of the carillon world." His dedication and artistry continue this treasured musical tradition for future generations.
From vibrant seasonal blooms and serene woodland paths to the soaring melodies of birds and the Singing Tower and Bok Tower Gardens offers an experience that touches the heart and lifts the spirit. Words alone cannot capture their beauty. A personal visit is the best way to honor Edward Bok’s timeless vision," simply to preach the gospel and influence of beauty reaching out to visitors through trees, flowers, bird, superb architecture, the music of bells, and the sylvan setting … to make the world a little more beautiful."
Tour Includes: Roundtrip transportation; Garden admission; Guided docent tour of the elegant El Retiro estate; Delicious lunch prepared by Blue Palmetto Café. Motorcoach departs from the garden at 3:30 p.m.
Be advised that the bus will be stopping at all three pick-up points (Wildwood, Inverness and Ocala) for this and all tours.
ALL deposits are due within seven (7) days of reservation by credit card or check. A 3% processing fee applies to all credit card transactions.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| INVERNESS WALMART | Inverness Wal-Mart (On the Wendys side) 2461 E Gulf To Lake Hwy, Inverness, FL |
| OCALA BEALLS | Bealls Florida Parking Lot 9598 SW 114th St |
| WILDWOOD | Lamers Bus Lines - PARKING AVAILABLE 1410 Industrial Dr. Wildwood, Fl. |
