k.truelove Sometimes it pays to take the road less traveled. If you are up for a short adventure from Orlando then Bok Tower Gardens is a great place to visit. It is located about an hour and a half south of Orlando. Bok Tower Gardens is open 365 days a year from 8:00am to 6:00pm.
Although it is beautiful year round, the best time to visit is in the spring when their extensive flower gardens are in full bloom. In Florida, this can be late March to early May. Adults and children alike can enjoy time at Bok Tower Gardens. When you arrive you head directly to the Visitor’s Center which hosts a welcome center and exhibit hall to provide you with the history of the tower and gardens, as well as a cute cafe and gift shop.
For the kids, they have Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden. In the Hollow is a playground that is nature themed and has many places to play, climb,, dig, build and create while exploring the outdoors. Most of the area has shade which makes it comfortable on hot summer days.
For adults and kids there is so much to explore around the gardens. If you love to hike, you can explore the Pine Ridge Preserve Trail that runs along the east side of the property. It is a nice 3/4 mile walk through the longleaf pine/turkey oak habitat. The gardens span over 8 acres showcasing approximately 175 native species of plants. The gardens also have an endangered plants garden. While exploring the property, you can take a 10 minute walk to the Singing Tower. It is one of only 185 carillions in North America.
While the park is open to the public they do hold private events, weddings, retreats, and school field trips year round. They have a modest fee of $17 per adult, $5 for kids 5-12 years old, Free under 5.
If exploring nature in a beautiful quiet and peaceful setting is something you enjoy, this is a place worth taking a day trip to. Place for kids, check. Cafe on site, check. Trails and gardens, check.
Bok Tower Gardens Map for planning your day.
