Historic Bok Sanctuary Garden

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Photo by Donna Dawson

The renowned Historic Bok Sanctuary, located in Lake Wales is one of Florida's original tourism venues. Located on the highest point on the Florida peninsula, Bok Tower Sanctuary is a national landmark on 128 acres of gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmstead Jr. and a bell tower housing one of the world's great carillons. The absolutely beautiful Sanctuary carillon is considered one of the finest in the world. With 60 bronze bells ranging in weight from 16 pounds to nearly 12 tons, the instrument was designed and built by John Taylor Bellfoundry, Ltd. of Loughborough, England. The inscription on the largest bell says that Sanctuary founder Edward W. Bok gave the carillon as a tribute of affection to his grandparents who were lovers of beauty. As you walk through the brand new Visitor Center you are greeted with palm trees, ferns and camellias, magnolias and azaleas bursting into colour at various times of the year. There are also many native birds that visit and the best place to observe them is the nature observatory called the “Window by the Pond”. Here you can sit inside and watch the birds as well as the butterflies and other assorted creatures that frequent this wetland area. Be sure to visit the gift shop as well for some tantalizing goodies and don’t leave without having the ice cream…it is to die for!

Written by  Donna Dawson.

Comments, reviews and questions by other travellers

We visited Bok Sanctuary in February 2005. It is a beautiful and peaceful place.

 annyanny - posted 5th July 2009