Best Historic Stays: The Herlong Mansion in Micanopy
Located in the historic town of Micanopy, just south of Gainesville, Herlong Mansion is a historic bed and breakfast dating back to 1845. Today, guests can experience the home's rich history while enjoying a peaceful stay in one of Florida's oldest inland towns.
The History of Herlong Mansion
Herlong Mansion began as a simple home built in 1845 by one of Micanopy's original settlers along what is now Cholokka Boulevard. In the early 1900s, Zeddy Clarence Herlong and his wife, Natalie Simonton, purchased the home. Thanks to Zeddy's success in the lumber and citrus industries, he expanded the farmhouse into the grand mansion visitors see today.
The Herlong family raised six children there before Zeddy eventually moved out of state. After sitting vacant for a number years, the property was purchased in the 1980s and transformed into a bed and breakfast. Since then, it has received local, state, and national recognition, including features in The New York Times Sunday Magazine and on Good Morning America.
Current owner Kim Shore purchased the mansion in 2021 and has continued preserving its historic character while adding her own touch.
Herlong Mansion Today
With its four Corinthian columns, wraparound porch, and towering oak trees, Herlong Mansion is one of Micanopy's most recognizable historic homes. Inside, you'll find rich wood paneling, a grand staircase, and Herlong family memorabilia, including handwritten love letters displayed in the parlor.
The mansion has thirteen individually decorated rooms and suites. According to Shore, the Herlong Suite and Dogwood Room are among the most popular because they overlook the second-floor veranda. While the home has only one television in the parlor, guests have access to Wi-Fi throughout the property, along with complimentary coffee, tea, freshly baked cookies, and an afternoon beer or wine. A shared refrigerator and microwave are also available.
Breakfast is served each morning in the dining room between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m., with coffee and orange juice available earlier. During my stay, homemade cinnamon rolls and French toast were standouts, and guests can share any dietary restrictions at check-in.
One of the things that makes Herlong Mansion special is how peaceful it feels. Guests often comment on the quiet surroundings, where you can hear birds singing and the breeze moving through the trees. Because sound carries throughout the historic home, families with young children may prefer staying in the separate Pump House Cottage or Carriage House for a little more privacy.
Herlong Mansion is especially popular during University of Florida football weekends, graduation, and move-in days, so it's best to book early if you're visiting during those times. October is another busy season thanks to the annual Micanopy Fall Festival, while summer makes a great time to pair your stay with trips to nearby springs like Silver Springs State Park and Rainbow Springs State Park.
