Sarah’s Small Town Escapes: Micanopy
Micanopy (pronounced Mih-kuh-no-pee) may have a tricky name, but it’s an easy place to fall in love with. This tiny town just south of Gainesville is believed to be Florida’s oldest inland settlement, founded in 1821. Once a trading village, it’s now a haven for antique lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking to slow down and reconnect.
I had heard about Micanopy for years… how charming it was, how peaceful… but I wasn’t quite sure what to expect until I saw it for myself. It didn’t take long to explore, but the best thing you can do here is step out of your car and take it in slowly. Everything about this town will make you want to take a deep breathe and stay awhile.
Here are five of the best ways to make the most of your time in Micanopy.
1. Wander the antique shops on Cholokka Boulevard
The heart of Micanopy is just a few blocks long, but it's lined with character. Antique stores and unique shops fill the historic storefronts along Cholokka Boulevard.
My favorite stop was the Micanopy OutPost, where you can view an incredible collection of paintings by the Florida Highwaymen. If you’ve never seen their work, it's worth a visit for that alone. The paintings really capture the spirit of Old Florida.
2. Grab a Cuban sandwich at Old Florida Café
Located right on the main drag, Old Florida Café is relaxed, welcoming, and a little quirky in the best way.
Their motto sums it up: “Our food is like our town—Original and Fabulous.” The menu has crowd favorites like Cuban sandwiches, Reubens, and homemade Key Lime Pie. I ordered the Cuban and a slice of pie, and both were exactly what I was hoping for.
Tip: The café is open Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday until 4:30 p.m.
3. Step back in time at the Micanopy Historical Society Museum
The Micanopy Historical Society Museum is tucked inside a historic building and offers a look into the town’s past. It doesn’t take long to walk through, but it adds helpful context to everything else you'll see in town.
Tip: The museum is open Tuesday through Friday and Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It’s closed on Mondays.
4. Walk the trails at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
Just a few minutes from town, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is unlike anywhere else in Florida because wild horses and bison roam freely! I love starting at the main entrance to climb the observation tower, heading to a different access point to enjoy the bolen Bluff Trail, and then to the La Chua Trailhead.
Tip: Don’t rush this visit. Bring water, binoculars, and a good pair of shoes.
5. Stay the night at the Herlong Mansion
To really understand Micanopy’s charm, spend the night at the Herlong Mansion. Originally built in 1845, it’s now a bed-and-breakfast with 13 individually decorated rooms, relaxing verandas, and a warm elegance. Homemade breakfast served daily in the dining room, along with Complimentary wine, beer, and fresh-baked cookies in the afternoon.
Tip: Book ahead if you're visiting during UF football weekends, graduation, or the Micanopy Fall Festival in October.
