Bok Tower Gardens is truly a hidden gem for beginner birdwatchers!
Located in peaceful Lake Wales, Florida, it’s about 60 miles from Orlando and 70 miles from Tampa. Inspired by my two recent visits, this guide will help you understand when to visit, what to bring, where to look for birds, and how to make the most of your trip.
When to visit Bok Tower Gardens for birdwatching
Fall and spring promise the best birding variety, as many migratory birds are passing through Florida. However, Bok Tower Gardens hosts many resident bird species—so it’s a great year-round destination. I recently visited in December 2024 and January 2025, and spotted an abundance of birds each time.
Best times of day: Early morning is ideal, because birds are most active while foraging for food. On my visits, I arrived shortly after opening time (8am) and saw a lot of bird activity. Late afternoon can also be good, especially in cooler months.
Summer (along with spring and fall!) can be hot and humid, so plan to visit early in the day and bring plenty of water. Winter mornings can be chilly, but bird activity is still high.
What to bring for birding at Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens has very nice facilities (abundant restrooms, visitor center, and a lovely café) so all you really need is your binoculars, notebook / birding app, water, a splash of sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing.
See my guide to essential equipment for beginner birding for the full rundown.
What birds can you see at Bok Tower Gardens?
There’s a wide range of terrain here, so chances are you’ll see a variety of different bird species. Check out the eBird list for this year’s totals so far!
During this January visit, I saw:
- Catbird
- Tufted titmouse
- White-eyed vireo
- American robin
- Eastern Phoebe
- Black-and-white warbler
- Carolina wren
- Bald eagle (flying over the parking lot, of all places!)
- Red-tailed hawk
I also encountered 3 sandhill cranes sauntering v e r y slowly across US-27 on the drive home 🫣😅
During my December visit, I was lucky enough to spot this painted bunting!
The best birdwatching spots at Bok Tower Gardens
The Pine Ridge Preserve Trail is a great place to find woodpeckers, bluebirds, and warblers. The pine habitat also attracts a variety of songbirds.
The Window by the Pond is a peaceful spot to watch for waterbirds, and there’s usually activity on the feeder just outside (it’s where I saw this painted bunting!)
Birds love the mature trees around the Singing Tower. Keep your eyes peeled for cardinals, wrens, and even hawks soaring above.
The Wetland Boardwalk is a prime location for wading birds like egrets, herons, and ibises.
The trees and flowers of the Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden can attract hummingbirds and butterflies—so it’s worth a visit even if you don’t have kids with you.
Top tip: Take the smaller, more winding trails throughout the gardens to up your chances of spotting birds.
More wildlife at Bok Tower Gardens
Chances are you’ll see much more than just birds on your visit. Keep your eyes out for butterflies, plenty of squirrels, and tortoises, and perhaps even a deer.
P.S. Watch your step — I’ve seen snakes every time I’ve visited and almost sat next to one on a picnic bench!
Other attractions at Bok Tower Gardens
The focal point of Bok Tower Gardens is the Singing Tower, a 205-foot neo-Gothic tower that’s famous for its 60 carillon bells, which provide an eerily beautiful musical backdrop to birdwatching.
I recommend taking your time to explore all of the meandering paths, because they’re filled with seasonal flowers and shady spots to rest as you enjoy a peaceful moment or two.
Make time for lunch at the lovely Blue Palmetto Café, and be sure to look at all the cute animal tiles around the entrance.
Plan your visit
All information correct as of Jan 2025. Check their website for the most up-to-date info.
- Hours: Open daily from 8am–6pm, with last admission at 5pm. It’s closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
- Cost: Adult admission is $20, children $10 (ages 6-17), children 5 and under are free, dogs are $10. They honor reciprocal admission for participating gardens and cultural institutions, including the AHS Garden Network. There’s an additional charge to visit the El Retiro historic estate.
- Size: Bok Tower Gardens is 250 acres, so plan to spend 3 hours exploring, plus extra time to enjoy lunch.
- Facilities: Restrooms, visitor center, café, picnic areas, gift shop
Have you visited Bok Tower Gardens for birdwatching? Get in touch to share your experience!
Happy birding,
Elli
