Posts Tagged “Lake Wales Things To Do”
Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden
Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden: Education and Exploration for Kids
The new Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden is an outstanding addition to the already beautiful landscape of Bok Tower Gardens. It’s a fantastic place for kids to explore nature. Recently, I took my toddler Grandson to Hammock Hollow, and what an awesome time he we had! The environment was not only fun but extremely educational. We spent several hours there and his curious mind never stopped exploring the unfamiliar territory. It was the perfect place for my inquisitive little guy. It seemed as if there were interesting surprises around every corner. My 3-year-old is eager to learn about the natural world, and there was no better place than the hands-on classroom of Hammock Hollow to educate him.
Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden Site Map
Site Map of Hammock Hollow: 17 Unique Areas
Upon arriving at Hammock Hollow, it’s beneficial to take a look at the site map for the Children’s Garden. You’ll notice that it’s divided into 17 different areas. According to your child’s age and interests, some sections may be better than others. I’ll list a few of the ones that my Grandson, Apollo, liked.
TIP: It’s a good idea to print a copy of the site map and have it available when you arrive. You can download a copy of Hammock Hollow Site Map here, directly from the Bok Tower Gardens website.
The Gateway
We began our garden adventure by entering through the keystone gate. The kid-size entrance is just the right size for little ones. Grandma’s can go through here too, just don’t forget to duck! This area was a gift from the Bok Family.
The Keystone Gateway Entrance to Hammock Hollow
Stone Mosaics
The pebble mosaics were really cool. There were both large and small ones, including a woodpecker, gopher turtle, and firefly. Apollo has a fetish for any kind of rocks. On any given day his pockets are filled with them. So it goes without saying that he was fascinated by the artwork made with these colorful little stones. Sculptor Kevin Carman created the masterpieces that perfectly complimented the entrance. This area was a gift from Alexis and Jim Pugh.
Pebble Mosaics at The Gateway
Indigo Pass
I’m not usually a fan of snakes, not even the caged kind. But this humongous pebble mosaic snake sculpture seemed like a friendly fellow. This lifeless reptile encircled a tot-sized sand area complete with sand pails and shovels. What a fun way to help young children develop motor skills. The area has a sunscreen overhead to allow the kids to linger a little longer. I really love exotic bamboo trees, so I was happy to see them planted as a backdrop to the sand play area. I’m looking forward to seeing their growth in a few years as they tower over this twisty serpent. Indigo Pass was a gift from Frank and Carol Drake.
Indigo Pass Sand Play Area
River Walk
As a Florida resident for the past 17 years, one thing I learned very quickly was that the Sunshine State has 3 seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest! Obviously the designers of Hammock Hollow learned that lesson too. I’m sure that’s why they created the sparkling springs of River Walk. It’s the perfect place for the children to cool off. There are misters, spray jets, foggers, and fountains. This area is paradise for any rock-climbing tyke. River Walk was a gift from Publix Super Markets Charities.
This is a good time to remind you to pack a change of clothes for your child (or maybe 2 or 3!). And don’t forget the sunscreen — remember that Florida heat I told you about? Even in the winter months the sun’s rays can have dangerous UV levels.
The Sparkling Springs at River Walk
Ledge Walk
Along the Ledge Walk kids will have a blast exploring all the little nooks and crannies in these huge rock formations. The fern-covered rocks represent Florida’s remarkable karst limestone history. The Florida Peninsula is a porous plateau of limestone that was formed many millions of years ago. Another great opportunity for a brief history lesson for your child. As parents, you may want to read up on the Geology of Florida before you go. (Your kids will think you are so smart!)
The Ledge Walk Representing Florida’s Limestone History
Edward Bok Word Garden
Edward Bok was a Pulitzer-Prize winning author and also the publisher of one of the finest magazines of yesteryear, the Ladies Home Journal. You can imagine the importance of “words” to a man with such creative writing talents. The Edward Bok Word Garden is an area dedicated to his memory. Unlike the other sections of the Children’s Garden that serve as outlets for physical play, this one is more reflective. Here, the beautiful stones each have an inspirational word etched in them — words that teach our children about qualities that make the world a better place. Pick up a few of the rocks at random and take the opportunity to teach your child about the importance of peace, joy, beauty, caring, and success. It’s also fun moving the stones around to create sentences or phrases. After some exhilarating physical exercise, take a moment to rest in the Word Garden. It will rejuvenate the body and soul.
Inspirational Stones at Edward Bok Word Garden
Apollo Resting in the Word Garden
Fence Swift Stumpery and Fox Den
Without question, the Fence Swift Stumpery and Fox Den was one of Apollo’s favorite areas at Hammock Hollow. My little dude loves to run, jump, and climb on things. At the Fox Den there was a log climb that challenged Apollo to take it slow and focus on balance. The Fence Swift Stumpery garden proves that even tree stumps can be beautiful and useful. It was inspired by the acrobatic lizards that are native to Florida. Although we have many species here, I like watching Geckos. It’s pretty interesting to see how they use their tails while leaping from place to place. This sprawling area under a shady oak hammock was the perfect spot for Apollo to put his best Gecko imitation to the test.
Fox Den Log Climb
Apollo Creates a Masterpiece from Tiny Logs
Doodle Bug Art Place
The Doodle Bug Art Place is an area to encourage young artists to display their artistic ability. The paper, crayons, markers, and colored pencils are provided. The tables are made from wood and the seats from tree logs. When finished, the child can proudly showcase their drawings with the other Hammock Hollow guests by hanging the artwork on a clothes-line type apparatus secured with a clothes pin. Who knows… the next Van Gogh might just be discovered here at Hammock Hollow! The Doodle Bug Art Place was a gift from The Herndon Family Foundation.
Doodle Bug Art Place at Hammock Hollow
Supplies Are Provided at Doodle Bug Art Place
Songbird Music Tree
The Songbird Music Tree is the perfect spot for your budding musician. Here, you’ll find several tuned acoustic instruments that encourage hands-on activity. Depending on your child’s age, this would be a great opportunity to introduce them to the rich musical heritage of Bok Tower Gardens. The nearby rope hammocks are another great place for parents and kids to rest. The Songbird Music Tree area was a gift from The Ruth V. Marchione Foundation.
Songbird Music Tree Acoustic Instruments
Acoustic Instruments at Songbird Music Tree
Rope Hammocks Provide Rest at Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden
Spider Climb
Another of Apollo’s favorite activities at Hammock Hollow was the Spider Climb. It’s a gigantic spider-web-inspired structure that allows children to weave their way through this enormous faux web. But be careful, keeping your balance while others are maneuvering the web can be quite challenging.
Spider Climb at Hammock Hollow
Cypress Boardwalk
Hammock Hollow has a beautiful winding boardwalk that twists and turns along a Cypress grove. They’ve strategically placed bird feeding stations in the Bird Hollow section and added special plants that attract wildlife, birds, and butterflies. Few children have actually caught a butterfly, but most of them enjoy the difficult task of trying. Apollo does, for sure!
Cypress Boardwalk at Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden
Pine Place Representing the Pine Forests of Florida
In Conclusion…
The fundraising efforts certainly paid off for this amazing project — raising over $16 million dollars in donations, far exceeding their initial goals. I found Hammock Hollow, the new interactive children’s garden at Bok Tower Gardens, to be fun for the entire family. The interactive areas encompass 3+ acres, and do an outstanding job of representing Florida’s varied ecosystems.
It did my heart good to see so many children engaging in outdoor activity. Some of my fondest childhood memories include playing outside after school, on weekends, or any chance I had. Decades later, I still remember those mud pies! But it’s a different world now. With the age of rapid technological advances, oftentimes we depend on our [very young] children to educate us regarding computers, cell phones, and most other wired devices. We must keep up with this “wired” world, or get left behind. Not minimizing that, my concern is that children are missing out on healthy physical exercise, not to mention the overall learning experiences that are only found in the classroom of nature. And, Apollo felt like a million dollars after his outdoor adventure!
Apollo Felt Like a Million Dollars at Hammock Hollow!
Leave No Child Inside — Nature Play is Healthy
There is growing research about the positive impact of nature play for children. This type of unstructured play in the outdoors has proven beneficial for a child’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical well-being. I highly recommend a best-selling book by Richard Louv entitled “Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder.” It talks about the great divide between children and the outdoors, with possible links to childhood obesity, attention disorders, and depression. The book’s success has spurred a national movement called “Leave No Child Inside.” I’m so grateful Bok Tower Gardens is doing their part to reunite our children with nature. Don’t miss this Central Florida attraction!
NOTE: Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden is just an hour’s drive from Disney and the Orlando area.
TIP: Florida residents may want to consider an Annual Membership to Bok Tower Gardens for year-round unlimited admission. With many membership levels, there’s one just right for your adventurous family. A membership also includes the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admissions Program, with free or discounted entry to attractions, museums, and gardens throughout Florida and the United States.
What is your family’s favorite outdoor activity? Can you recommend a special place to enjoy an outdoor adventure? Please reply in the comment box below!
Bok Gardens ~ Year-Round Beauty!
Bok Tower and Gardens ~ National Register of Historic Places
Bok Tower Gardens is a 50-acre garden located in Lake Wales, Florida. It’s perfectly positioned on Iron Mountain within the Lake Wales Ridge, one of the highest elevations in peninsular Florida. Rising 295 feet above sea level, for me it’s the most peaceful place in all of Central Florida. As a Florida resident looking to take a break from the craziness of Orlando’s theme parks and myriad of other touristy places, Bok Tower Gardens provides a place of solitude, and seemingly shelters me from the over-crowded venues synonymous with the Sunshine State. Even when the parking lot is full, I feel like I’m all alone; just me nestled amongst nature’s finest.
Bok Tower Gardens has been inspiring locals and visitors for the past 88 years! It was established almost 9 decades ago by Edward W. Bok as a gift to the American people. Mr. Bok spared no expense in creating this garden oasis, hiring famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. as the designer. After 5+ years in construction, Bok Gardens was dedicated on February 1, 1929, by President Calvin Coolidge. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993. The history of Bok Tower Gardens is truly fascinating!
FUN FACT:
Edward W. Bok was the editor of the women’s magazine Ladies Home Journal!
National Register of Historic Places
Entrance to Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens ~ 7 Distinct Areas
Bok Tower Gardens consists of 7 distinct focal points:
- Olmsted Landscape Gardens
- Wild Garden
- Singing Tower
- Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden
- Edible Garden & Outdoor Kitchen
- Pine Ridge Nature Preserve
- Pinewood Estate & Gardens
Each one is unique and provides for leisurely strolls, enlightening moments, or engaging activities. There are a multitude of meandering paths and strategically placed benches perfect for reading, journaling, reflecting, meditation, or praying. The informal woodland setting is also a haven for bird-watchers, butterfly fanatics, nature lovers, and photographers. Keep your camera handy — in addition to songbirds, wildlife may include turkeys, raptors, lizards, or the rare gopher tortoise listed as “threatened” and thereby protected under Florida State law.
If you plan on thoroughly investigating all 7 areas in one day, it’s a good idea to arrive when they open at 8 a.m. Pack a picnic lunch or stop by the Blue Palmetto Cafe, their on-site spot for breakfast, lunch, and snacks. (You have got to try the Beer-batterd French Fries! They were even better than my beloved Sweet Potato Fries.) Here’s a peek at the Blue Palmetto Cafe menu and prices.
Begin your visit at the Visitor’s Center & Museum with a brief orientation film. Here, you can also learn about the history of the Gardens and view changing art exhibits. Be sure to pick up a brochure with photos of some of the plants that will be blooming during your visit; these change on a monthly basis. Additionally, there is a table right outside the Visitor’s Center with a sampling of what’s currently in bloom. Take a look, and then see how many you can locate! Save some time to explore the Tower & Garden Gift Shop with unique treasures (and a live plant shop for your own garden) to commemorate your visit.
Bok Tower Gardens is open 365 days a year, from 8 – 6. Visit their website at boktowergardens.org for visitor guidelines and frequently asked questions.
Flowers That Are Currently Blooming
Lunch at the Blue Palmetto Cafe
Lunch at the Blue Palmetto Cafe
Tower & Garden Gift Shop
Bok Tower Gardens ~ Colorful Creations 365 Days a Year!
Regardless of which month you visit Bok Tower Gardens you’ll find a variety of flowers and plants in bloom. That’s the beauty of having a botanical garden right in the middle of the Sunshine State! During every season (and yes, Florida has them!) color abounds. For example, when I went in December there was Plumbago, Tropical Gardenia, Chinese Hat, Popcorn Senna, Beautyberry, Brazilian Red Cloak, and Camellias, just to name a few. The citrus trees were at the height of their growing season, and poinsettias were everywhere. And the mansion at Pinewood Estate was decked out in all its holiday splendor. Christmastime is truly one of my favorite times at Bok Tower Gardens.
Bok Gardens Bromeliad Tree at Christmastime
Outstanding Colorful Blooms in December at Bok Gardens
Orange Trees at Bok Gardens During December
Poinsettias are Everywhere During the Holidays at Bok Gardens
Mansion at Christmas ~ Pinewood Estate
Bok Gardens in February
My most recent visit was a few days ago in February. I didn’t expect to see much midway through winter, but Mother Nature proved me wrong. The Gardens were remarkable! Sensational Snapdragons were blooming in a variety of bright colors and ranged in height from dwarf to medium to tall. Their showy slender stalks appeared throughout the Gardens, from potted containers at the entrance to Pinewood Estate, and places in-between.
And speaking of “showy,” the Camellias were the crème de la crème! They were found in various sections and provided breathtaking eye-candy for anyone with a passion for botanical beauty. The red, white, and pink flowers (oftentimes mistaken for a rose) were in full bloom during my February visit. Bird of Paradise, one of my all-time favorite tropical flowers, were also blooming. The Azaleas… oh my goodness, those Azaleas! Even though they’re quite common compared to a lot of the offerings here, were extraordinarily beautiful. It seemed like there were acres of them, in so many varieties — such as Amelia Rose, Gloria, Mardi Gras, Southern Charm, Kissimmee, Edward Bok, and Eugenie.
Stunning Snapdragons at Bok Gardens
“Pretty in Pink” Aster at Bok Gardens in Lake Wales
Beautiful Bromeliad Blooms in Winter
Red Plumes at Pinewood Estate
Colorful Cacti & Potted Plants at Bok Gardens
Pinewood Estate ~ Mediterranean Revival Architecture
A trip to Bok Tower Gardens is not complete without a leisurely stroll around the grounds of Pinewood Estate. The enchanting 20-room mansion is Mediterranean Revival Architecture, and just under 13,000 square feet. This area is comprised of nearly 8 acres and was built in the early 1930s for Charles Austin Buck, the vice president of Bethlehem Steel. “El Retiro” was the original name, which means “retreat” in Spanish. I purchased a book with the history of Pinewood Estate and Bok Tower Gardens in the gift shop, which I highly recommend. It was fascinating!
General Admission to the Gardens is $14, and a combo ticket that includes the Pinewood Estate tour is $20. It’s well worth the $6 up-charge which includes the home’s history, and docents are available throughout the mansion to answer questions about the Estate and its furnishings. Even if you don’t purchase the interior tour of the mansion, do yourself a favor and peruse the immaculate grounds. You’ll be able to see the formal Mediterranean-style garden, the Spanish frog fountain, an enchanting stone grotto at the front of the house, an Oriental moon gate fountain, and an English-style country garden with a rolling lawn and reflective pond.
Pinewood Estate at Bok Gardens, Lake Wales Florida
Grounds of Pinewood Estate, Lake Wales Florida
Latin Influences at Pinewood Estate ~ Colorful Tiles
Pinewood Estate Mansion and Gardens
Oriental Moon Gate Fountain and Gardens at Pinewood Estate
Pinewood Estate in February
Pinewood Estate Mansion with Colorful February Blooms
Bamboo and Palms at Pinewood Estate Mansion, Bok Gardens
The Singing Tower at Bok Gardens
Towering 205 feet above the Gardens is the neo-Gothic Singing Tower. It houses one of the world’s finest carillons with 60 bells. The Art Deco style is made up of stone native to the Southeast, ironwork, tile mosaics, and the infamous sun dial and brass door. Unfortunately, few people will get to tour the inside of the Singing Tower and see what’s behind the brass door. To receive a private tour invitation you must hold a Sustainer Level Membership or above. Even so, the outside of the Tower is worth seeing; it was awarded the grand prize for design in 1930 by the American Institute of Architects. Carillon concerts occur at 1 & 3 p.m. daily. They can usually be heard almost anywhere on the grounds of the Gardens.
The carillon musical instrument was designed and built in England, in 1928. There are only 4 in Florida and 600 worldwide. Bok Tower Gardens will be hosting the 23rd International Carillon Festival March 4-12. Daily concerts and special events will be performed by world-renowned carillonneurs. This world-famous music festival only happens twice every 5 years!
The Singing Tower at Bok Gardens, Lake Wales Florida
The Singing Tower Collage
Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden ~ New at Bok Tower Gardens
One of the new additions to Bok Tower Gardens is the children’s play area called Hammock Hollow. What a fantastic idea! Young children are generally not as interested or impressed by botanical gardens as adults are, therefore, this add-on was a win-win for everyone in the family. Mom and Dad no longer have to fight with the little ones to go to the Gardens. In fact, with an activities area like this one, the only battle will be getting the kids to leave.
At 2.7 acres it’s much larger than I envisioned. The children can enter through the pint-sized keystone gate, where the adventure begins. There are rocks to climb (careful… you may get wet!), a gigantic spiderweb to maneuver, logs to climb, a painting area for the next Van Gogh to be discovered, sand play area complete with sand pails and water, a stick stack for building forts and other structures, a chickee hut with an outdoor kitchen, frog hop for jumpers, acoustic musical instruments, bird feeding stations, and lots more. There’s a decent amount of shady areas to escape the hot Florida sun with places to rest and cool down; rope hammocks, secret nap benches, fountains, spray jets, misters, and foggers. You can read Florida Fun And Fork’s complete review of Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden here.
***Note: This is not a babysitting service. The children must be supervised at all times.
Hammock Hollow Keystone Entry for Children’s Play Area at Bok Gardens
Children’s Play Areas at Bok Gardens
Children’s Painting Area at Hammock Hollow
Edible Garden and Outdoor Kitchen ~ New to Bok Tower Gardens
Another upgrade to Bok Tower Gardens is the addition of an Edible Garden & Outdoor Kitchen. Developed by the University of Florida and other growers, it features fruits, herbs, and vegetables. Of course, the varieties planted are those well suited for Central Florida weather. This area hosts special events and culinary classes such as Grilling with a Twist, Sippin’ & Suppin’ Under the Stars with Celebrity Chefs, Kids in the Kitchen, Fermentation Festival, Craft Beer & Cuisine, and Brining & Pickling.
Outdoor Kitchen at Bok Tower Gardens
Edible Garden at Bok Tower Gardens
A Slice of Old Florida
Bok Tower Gardens gives me a sense of Old Florida — the way our great state used to be before scores of people discovered our little secret. It’s off-the-beaten-path, yet so easy to access from almost anywhere within Central Florida. I highly recommend this peaceful piece of paradise. And even though there’s been a noticeable increase in attendance since the new spaces have premiered, you won’t have tons of tourists stepping on your toes. The serenity is addictive.
A Slice of Old Florida at Bok Tower Gardens
An Old Florida Attraction at Bok Gardens , Lake Wales
Nature at its Best!
Gigantic Palm Leaf at Bok Gardens
Swan in the Reflecting Pond at Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens Membership and Reciprocal Program
If you’re in a geographical area that will allow you to return again and again, consider purchasing a Membership. With 11 different Membership Levels, there’s one that fits most budgets. Hubby and I purchased the “Duo” right before the price increase (we paid $55). But even at $70 for 2 people it’s a bargain. Not only do you get unlimited visits to Bok Tower Gardens and discounts at the Blue Palmetto Cafe and Tower Garden Gift Shop, it also includes a reciprocal admission program that allows free or greatly reduced entry prices for other select botanical gardens and museums in Florida and throughout the country.
For example, Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando offers free admission simply by showing your Bok Tower Gardens Membership Card (and photo ID). Here’s my Leu Gardens Review and Photo Tour from a recent visit. This is another gorgeous botanical garden and museum that is also on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Garden in Winter Park has free reciprocal admission. The sculptures in this outdoor sculpture garden are amazing! To me, if a facility is on the National Register, it’s usually worth seeing. In total, there are 47 botanical gardens and/or museums in the state of Florida alone that participate in this program.
You can check out the Membership Application for Bok Gardens on their website.
Bok Tower Gardens Map and Directions
ADDITIONAL READING FOR BOTANICAL ENTHUSIASTS
What do you get when you combine a passion for botanical beauty with America’s wealthiest families? You get 5 Florida Gardens with Rich Roots! It’s a fascinating article revealing the connection between the richest people in America and their winter homes here in Florida!
SPECIAL EVENT: EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE
WHERE: Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
WHEN: April 1, 2018, 7:00 am — Gate opens at 6:00 a.m
COST: Complimentary Admission until 8:00 a.m
In addition to an inspiring Easter message, enjoy a carillon performance by Geert D’hollander
For an additional fee a buffet breakfast will be served in the Blue Palmetto Café following the service
Have you been to Bok Tower Gardens? Please share your experience or any questions about this National Historic Landmark in the Comment box below!