|
|
|
|
Historic Bok Sanctuary Review
Read our Orlando-Disney World sights reviews. Or post your own.
Historic Bok Sanctuary 
- Address: 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, FL
- Phone: 863/676-1408
- www.boktower.org
- Category: Parks
- Location: Historic Bok Sanctuary
Fodor's Review:
If after several days at the theme parks you find that you're in need of a back-to-nature fix, head south along U.S. 27 to the small town of Lake Wales. Along the way you see what's left of Central Florida's citrus groves (many of them remain). But the main reason to take this drive is to get to the
Historic Bok Sanctuary, known for years as Bok Tower Gardens, an appealing sanctuary of plants, flowers, trees, and wildlife. Shady paths meander through pine forests in this peaceful world of silvery moats, mockingbirds and swans, blooming thickets, and hidden sundials. You'll be able to boast that you stood on the highest measured point on Florida's peninsula, a colossal 298 feet above sea level. The majestic, 200-foot Bok Tower is constructed of coquina -- from seashells -- and pink, white, and gray marble, and it was refreshed for the sanctuary's 75th anniversary celebration in February 2004. The tower houses a carillon with 57 bronze bells that ring out each day at 1 and 3 PM during 30-minute live recitals, which may include early American folk songs, Appalachian tunes, Irish ballads, or Latin hymns. The bells are also featured in recordings every half hour after 10 AM, and sometimes even moonlight recitals.
The landscape was designed in 1928 by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., son of the planner of New York's Central Park. The grounds include the 20-room, Mediterranean-style Pinewood Estate, built in 1930. Take I-4 to Exit 55, and head south on U.S. 27 for about 23 mi. Proceed past Eagle Ridge Mall, then turn left after two traffic lights onto Mountain Lake Cut Off Road and follow signs.
- Cost: $10 adults, $3 children 5-12, 50% off admission Sat. 8-9; Pinewood Estate general tour $6 adults, $5 children 5-12; holiday tour prices higher
- Open: Daily 8-6; check Web site or call for Pinewood Estate tour schedule, which varies seasonally; holiday tours late Nov.-early Jan.
Get Advice From Other Travelers
- Where is the best pool in Orlando?
4 responses; most recent on 09/22/2008, 10:18 pm - Orlando - Need help finding a rental car for 22yr old
6 responses; most recent on 09/20/2008, 11:35 pm - Orlando - Need help finding a car for 22yr old
-1 responses; most recent on 09/18/2008, 11:05 pm - Disney World visitors to get free admission on their birthdays
0 responses; most recent on 09/18/2008, 01:35 pm
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip >>
Buy the Guidebook
-
$11.95
Get the Fodor's Newsletter
Read the current issue
For more travel ideas, tips, and deals, sign up for the Fodor's newsletter here. Browse previous issues.
