Bok Tower Gardens is a National Historic Landmark with nearly 50 acres that include native, exotic and endangered plants. There is also a preserve trail, nature trail, library, café and a 205-foot neo-Gothic and art deco Singing Tower. Visitors can tour a 20-room Mediterranean-style mansion from the 1930s. Gardening enthusiasts, history buffs and nature lovers will enjoy this tranquil outing. A typical visit lasts about 4 hours. If you visit with children, pick up a discovery backpack (free on loan) at the Visitor Center Information Desk. The backpacks are filled with books, bubbles, binoculars, a compass and other goodies to help your little ones explore nature.
Parking at Bok Tower Gardens
Parking is free. There are designated accessible parking spaces in the parking area. Shuttle service for persons with disabilities is available outside the Visitor Center. All buildings on the property are wheelchair accessible except the second floor of Pinewood Estate. Guests may rent mobility carts, wheelchairs and strollers by visiting the Gift Shop. Wheelchairs are provided free of charge if you leave your valid driver's license or government-issued picture ID card until you return it.
Best and Worst Times to go to Bok Tower Gardens
Peak bloom time is usually mid-February through mid-March. However, since Florida does not really experience the typical winter, peak bloom season can vary slightly, so call to verify before you go. Bok Tower Gardens is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Last admission from the entrance gate is at 5 p.m. The Visitor Center, Blue Palmetto Café and Tower & Garden Gift Shop are open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. with limited hours on holidays.
Admission to Bok Tower Gardens
Combo Admission: Adults $18 – 20 Children (5-12) $8-$10. This ticket option includes General Admission and access to a self-guided tour of Pinewood Estate.
General Admission: Adults $12-$15 Children (5-12) $3 -$5. This ticket option includes admission to the Gardens, Pine Ridge Nature Trail, Preserve Trail and the Visitor Center complex.
Must See/Do at Bok Tower Gardens
There are designated picnic areas near the parking lot, but a picnic blanket is welcome anywhere in the park. If you're part techie/part nature-lover, Bok Tower Gardens is also a geocaching participant. Preserve your memory with a professional photography session.
Other Places to Visit Near Bok Tower Gardens
Continue the fun with a stay at Westgate River Ranch Resort, a dude ranch with everything from golf and rodeo to a steakhouse, archery, boating and much more. Fall in love with the Sweet Blueberry Wine at locally owned, Fiddlers Ridge Farms & Winery. It's made from hand-harvested premium Florida blueberries.
Insider Tip for Visitors to Bok Tower Gardens
If you're traveling with a pet, you will find Bok Tower Gardens very accommodating. Although pets are not allowed in the gardens, there are outdoor kennels available. Bring a water bowl. Arrangements can be made at the gift shop. A small fee (under $10) is charged.
Edie Schmidt is a freelance writer in Central Florida. She loves sharing her favorite places with you. Visit her other works here.
MOSI opened its doors permanently to the public in 1982 and has been offering unique exhibits aimed at both children and adults since. MOSI also houses an IMAX dome that plays standard IMAX films and select feature films. Traveling exhibits, such as the Bodies area, are frequently on display. There is much to do for people of every age, from a butterfly garden to an astronomy show to a high-wire bike.
