Bok Tower Gardens is home to various birds, butterflies, reptiles, as well as the Singing Tower, making it a local treasure to Central Florida.
When visiting El Retiro one gets the added bonus of the adjacent Bok Tower Gardens. This National Historic Landmark was the inspiration of Edward William Bok, magazine publisher, editor of “Ladies Home Journal”, author and philanthropist. Bok Tower Gardens was created as a gift to the American people.
Bok Tower received the grand prize from the American Institute of Architects in 1930.
The magnificent Singing Tower designed by Milton B. Medary.
The marble and locally sourced stone tower soars to 205 feet. Tile mosaics, ironwork, animal carvings, and ornate gold doors, each made by specialized craftsmen, embellish the Art Deco style tower. Carvings of herons make it feel special to Florida.
Twice a day the 60-bell carillon fills the air with marvelous music. The tower isn’t immediately visible, but the sounds from the “Singing Tower” lure one to it. NPR mentioned carillons in a recent report noting this to be the only one in a rural area. The others have to compete with sounds of the city. Hearing a carillon concert in this peaceful Lake Whales setting is a special treat.
A koi-filled moat surrounds the tower.
Many consider Bok Tower Gardens to be one of the finest works of famed landscape architect Frederick Olmsted, Jr.
A pebble pathway leads one from the visitor center to the gardens’ entrance.
A giant agave rests near the visitor center.
A cute snake tile is tucked into a bed of ferns.
Does this snake tile serve as decoration or warning?
The gardens are a bit wild and natural in the best old Florida style.
The above sentiment is spotted at different points through the gardens.
A starfish cactus now resides in Winter Park.
Furthermore, there is a gift shop with an area dedicated to plants found on the property allowing one to make their personal garden a bit better.
Edward Bok is buried on site in front of the golden tower doors.
Thank you Mr. Bok for making a part of Florida extraordinarily beautiful.
Casa V can make your home a bit more beautiful.