What is Bok Tower Gardens?
Bok Tower Gardens is a contemplative garden and bird sanctuary created between 1924 and 1928. The landscape was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., and the gardens sit atop Iron Mountain at roughly 295 feet above sea level — among the highest points in peninsular Florida.
How tall is the Singing Tower?
The Singing Tower stands 205 feet tall. Designed by architect Milton B. Medary, it houses a 60-bell carillon cast by John Taylor & Co. of England.
From the Lake Wailes suites, the tower is visible across the water.
When was it built?
The tower was built between 1927 and 1929 and dedicated by President Calvin Coolidge on February 1, 1929. The site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993.
What else is there to see?
- The gardens and sanctuary — shaded paths through 250 acres designed for quiet walks.
- Pinewood Estate — a Mediterranean Revival mansion built in 1930–1932 as a winter home, open for tours.
- The carillon — the tower's 60 bells are the reason it's called the Singing Tower.
Planning your visit
The gardens are open daily and charge admission. Hours, ticket prices and carillon performance times change through the year, so check the official Bok Tower Gardens website before you go.
Where to stay nearby
Our Lake Wailes suites look across the lake toward Bok Tower, making them an easy base for a morning at the gardens. See the suites below or browse every stay.