When we say Central Florida, we always think of Orlando. But did you know that the actual center of Florida is closer to a the small town of Lake Wales. Today, I will share my experience while visiting Lake Wales Florida Bok Tower. Lake Wales is a small town found in the very center of the Florida peninsula. It is found almost directly between Melbourne and Tampa. If you are traveling from either the southeastern coast or the southwestern coast, Hwy 60 is your direct route to Lake Wales. It is approximately 1 ½ hours from either coast. From the north or south of Florida, you can hop on Hwy 27 which runs directly to Lake Wales.
Bok Tower In Lake Wales Florida
Lake Wales is a small town that is nestled within the old orange groves of Florida. It found its heyday during the boom of the turpentine and railroad industry that were used in the development of Florida. Lake Wales does actually have its own Lake Wales. If you are looking for a rustic get-a-way for the day to enjoy outdoor fun and see a glimpse of what Old Florida may have been like, Lake Wales may be a great stop for you. There are a few fast-food restaurants, small chain stores, and a Walmart available.
For the Fun of It
Amazing Bok Tower Gardens
A hidden treasure and one of the main attractions of Lake Wales is Bok Tower Gardens. This is a family favorite of ours as we’ve have been numerous times with our family and friends. Bok Towers is a 250 acre garden and wildlife sanctuary built by Edward Bok, the famous publisher of the Ladies Home Journal other publications. He and his wife would come to Florida during the winter month and fell in love with the serene surroundings.
They gifted the gardens to the state of Florida. The gardens were created by Frederik Olmsted, the famous landscaper of Central Park and the Biltmore gardens. This oasis isconsidered a national historical landmark and is built upon the highest point in Florida. The gardens are absolutely beautiful and are well worth the day trip.
Guests are welcome to walk the gardens, enjoy the history of Bok Tower at the Visitor Center, enjoy picnics on the rolling hill, hike one of the multiple trails available to you, or visit the café or gift shop. There are two major sites to check out during your trip to Bok Tower: The Singing Tower and the Pinewood Estate, El Retiro.
The Singing Tower is a 205-foot Singing Tower carillon made up of 60 bells. The tower plays 30 minute concerts daily at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. It is a must see during your visit to Bok Towers. Surrounding the towers is a moat filled with koi that are fun to explore. You may choose to sit and read on the benches or picnic near the tower overlooking the breathtaking view of the land. This is a photo hot spot so get your cameras ready.
Autumn’s Trip To The Mansion
A second stop during your visit could be the El Retiro Estate. This 20 room Mediterranean mansion and gardens are sure to please. The gardens outside of the residence are beautiful. Check out the pond that has is filled with wildlife. There is an extra purchase to tour inside the home. Throughout the tour, you will view multiple rooms and receive the history of the mansion. This is a must-see if you are visiting during the Christmas season.
If you have children, the Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden is also something to add to your list. It is a beautiful area for children to enjoy playing and learning about how important the relationship between plants, animals, and people are. Enjoy a stroll through the edible gardens or visit on a day that the outside kitchen is open.
Christmas is a wonderful time to come to the gardens as they are decorated for the holidays. The mansion displays multiple Christmas trees throughout the home also. Bok Tower is open 8 am-6 pm (last time for admission is 5 pm) daily except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children (ages 6-17).
The El Retiro mansion admission is $10 for adults/$5.00 for children. The mansion is closed on Mondays. If you are planning on a return trip to Bok Tower, it is well worth the cost of a Membership.
You can apply your daily ticket to this cost. One perk of the membership is that it is a reciprocal membership meaning there are multiple parks throughout Florida and the U.S. that give either free admissions or discounts with the Membership. Individual and Family memberships are available.
Lake Wales Trailway
The Lake Wales Trailway is a 2.3 mile trail that is made up of a 12 foot wide asphalt trail. This makes it convenient not just for walking, but for biking and skating. Throughout your trek, you will be introduced to a variety of Florida vegetation, wildflowers, and Florida critters such as butterflies, birds, and occasional turtles found on the Lake Wales Ridge. Entry through the Kiwanis Park allows the easiest access to the trail. The trailway does feature a playground, restrooms, and picnic areas.
Spook Hill Visit
Finally, Lake Wales is home to the Legend of Spook Hill. This hill is said to defy gravity and allows your car to roll uphill by itself. This magnetic hill or “gravity h
ill” is the only of its kind in Florida found right in Lake Wales. Head to 600 N. Wales Drive to find the welcome sign and read about the legend of Spook Hill. Take part in this “supernatural” phenomenon and see if you believe.
Are You A Foodie?
Lake Wales does have many of the convenient chain restaurants available. I would highly recommend stopping by the good ole’ Walmart to create a picnic lunch or bring apackedlunch of your own if you are heading out to Bok Towers or the Lake Wales Trailway. This is our go to when we visit the area. Inside
Bok Tower Gardens, there is also a small café that offers a small selection of sandwiches and salad options. They also have a few gluten-free options available.
If you are looking for a visit to a Florida of the past, this is an easy jaunt to Lake Wales. The visit to Old Florida won’t disappoint.
Remember to make memories, share laughs, and visit Florida.
