Bok Tower Gardens
Reigning high above the Central Florida landscape – more than 200 feet high, in fact – Lake Wales’ world-famous art deco and neo-Gothic legend, Bok Tower Gardens, was a tourist attraction the day it opened in 1929. Built upon the highest elevation in peninsular Florida, guests can stroll in the shadow of the tower that houses a carillon – and instrument comprised of a series of bells played by a keyboard. Built on Iron Mountain, what was once a desolate sand hill was transformed into a 250-acre lush tropical landscape that is both a contemplative garden as well as a bird sanctuary.
Local Culture Tours
If architecture interests you, schedule a tour of the historic Wonder House in Bartow.
Lakeland Food Tours offer visitors a way to enjoy tastings from a smattering of popular local restaurants with the assistance of a local guide.
Local Artists & Art Galleries
Central Florida art galleries include traditional spaces like Lake Wales Arts Council and Polk State College Lakeland Art Gallery. Nontraditional spaces include Mitchell’s Coffee House in Lakeland–with a delicious latte that tastes just like an Almond Joy.
You can show off your own artistic skills at PicassoZ Art Café in Lakeland, where you can paint along, make your own pottery or arrange an event for any occasion.
Be sure to read about our Museums and Performing Arts scene.
Bok Tower Gardens
Historic Bok Tower Gardens, a national historic landmark, features two hiking trails, 50 acres of…
Address: 1151 Tower Blvd.
Lake Wales, FL 33853
Phone: 863-676-1408
Explorations V Children’s Museum
Explorations V Children’s Museum in Lakeland offers colorful, interactive entertainment, and opportunities for parents and…
Address: 109 N Kentucky Ave.
Lakeland, FL 33801
Phone: (863) 687-3869
Polk County History Center
Housed in a 1908 courthouse, this museum showcases the history of Polk County. Galleries rotate…
Address: 100 E. Main St.
Bartow, FL 33830
Phone: (863) 534-4380
Lake Wales Arts Council
Located in a Spanish mission-style church built in 1927. Lake Wales Arts Council welcomes visitors…
Address: 1099 State Road 60 East
Lake Wales, FL 33853
Phone: (863) 676-8426
Mulberry Phosphate Museum
Home to an extensive collection of fossils, a phosphate industry gallery, old photographs and memorabilia…
Address: 101 SE 1st Street
Mulberry, FL 33860
Phone: (863) 425-2823
Lakeland Food Tours
To fill your mind, your belly and your heart in one walking food tour through…
Address:
Lakeland, FL
Phone: 863-279-0076
Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture at Florida Southern College
Explore the genius of America’s greatest architect through his most fully articulated vision: the National…
Address: 840 Johnson Ave
Lakeland, FL 33801
Phone: 863-680-4597
Wonder House Historic Tours
Polk Museum of Art
One of the top-ten art museums in Central Florida, featuring educational programs, diverse exhibits and…
Address: 800 E. Palmetto St.
Lakeland, FL 33801
Phone: (863) 688-7743 x223
