Optional Field Trip Information (Sunday, October 20)

     Buses Load: 12:15pm – in front of Conference Center
     Buses Depart: 12:30pm
     Buses Return: 5:30pm

Option #1

Bok Tower Gardens (Lake Wales, Florida) 

Itinerary

As the world has grown more complex and its pace more hurried, there is one spot in the heart of Central Florida where time stands still and a sense of peace and tranquility prevail. Bok Tower Gardens has offered some of Florida’s most remarkable experiences to more than 23 million visitors since 1929. Through its historic landscape gardens, unique Singing Tower and palatial 1930s winter estate, Bok Tower Gardens offers unparalleled opportunities for artistic, cultural, personal and spiritual enrichment.

Today, Bok Tower Gardens is a haven for birds, animals and the human spirit. It blends the beauty of nature and the intrigue of history with an outstanding collection of musical, artistic and architectural masterpieces that enrich the hearts, minds and souls of all who visit. The Gardens features beautifully landscaped gardens, a bell tower with a 60 bell carillon and the charming seven and a half-acre Pinewood Estate.

Bok Tower Gardens boasts one of the greatest works of famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. The historic landscape garden was designed to be a contemplative and informal woodland setting offering a series of romantic recesses and tranquil resting spots, picturesque vistas and breathtaking views of the Tower. Acres of ferns, palms, oaks and pines fashion a lush backdrop for flowering foliage and the spectacular seasonal color of azaleas, camellias and magnolias showcasing an ever-changing work of art.

The Singing Tower
Looking up at the 205-foot neo-Gothic and art deco carillon tower is an experience like no other. Designed by famed architect Milton B. Medary and ornately crafted by noted stone sculptor Lee Lawrie, the Tower houses one of the world’s finest carillons. Concerts from the 60-bell carillon fill the Sanctuary daily.

 

The Gardens
Surrounding the Tower is one of the greatest achievements of noted landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead Jr. The lush garden is filled with many sensory delights. Tranquil resting places, shady recesses, picturesque vistas, sweeping lawns and meandering paths create a contemplative setting for your personal renewal and enjoyment.

Option #2

Central Florida Landscape Tour -- FULL

This tour will visit four landscapes designed by Kristen and Stephen Pategas the owners of Hortus Oasis in Winter Park, Florida. Stephen is an award winning landscape architect. He and Kristen provide services in landscape design and consultation, garden writing and photography as well as horticultural education. They will welcome you to their home and give you what they have learned from their real world landscape experiences. This should truly be a remarkable experience.

Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared to walk at least 1 mile throughout the length of the tour. The tour will depart from the hotel and go to Hortus Oasis where the tour really begins. You will visit another garden nearby where the owners did a great job of self-designing and installing their garden. The next stop is a Victorian landscape at the second oldest home in Winter Park. The fourth and final stop would be to Casa Feliz. This historic home was moved to its current site and the landscape was again designed by Stephen and Kristen.