The One Florida Town Everyone Should Visit At Least Once
Known as ‘the town that time forgot’, Micanopy is quintessential Old Florida. Ancient moss-draped oak trees cast their shade over the 19th-century brick and frame buildings, and locals gather on wide, sun-drenched porches to watch the street go by. This historic town is something special. A place outside of time but with plenty to keep visitors occupied.
Established in 1821, Micanopy is Florida’s oldest inland town. It takes its unusual name, pronounced ‘mih-CAN-oh-pee’, from a Seminole Chief who lived in the area in the 1700s. Continuously occupied since Florida became a US Territory in the early 1800s, Micanopy’s historic district, Cholokka Boulevard, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Classic Greek Revival homes and historic public buildings share the downtown core with locally owned boutiques, antique shops, old-fashioned mercantiles, and cozy cafes.
Whether you’re on a Florida road trip, planning to vacation south to escape the winter, or looking for a day out in the Gainesville area, Micanopy is a must-see destination. Below, we share some suggestions on what to see and do in this historic and timeless town so that you can make the most of your trip.
Historic Landmarks
Micanopy has had a front row seat for two centuries of Florida history. Dive into its fascinating past at the Micanopy Historical Society Museum, where you’ll find exhibits on the 2nd Seminole War and Florida’s colonial eras, as well as a model fort, a replica of an 1800s general store, and memorabilia from Micanopy’s past as an early trading post. The museum also has a gift shop and town archive.
Two historic cemeteries in town are worth a visit: the Micanopy Historic Cemetery, which was created for white townspeople, and the Haynes Memorial Cemetery for black residents. The earliest grave in the former cemetery dates back to 1826 and contains the remains of 100 war veterans. The Haynes Memorial Cemetery is named for Irving H. Haynes, a gravedigger who worked in both cemeteries after the end of World War I. He was buried in 1935, and many of his descendants also have graves in this tranquil resting place on the outskirts of town.
There are several beautiful examples of period architecture in town, including the Herlong Mansion. Now a boutique bed and breakfast, this stately property began as a simple pine farmhouse built in 1845. In 1910, it was transformed into a grand Greek Revival mansion and became a hotel in the 1980s. The house, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, retains much of its original Victorian furnishings and is situated amid beautifully landscaped gardens.
Things to Do
Micanopy isn’t just famous for its history. It’s also known as an antiquing hotspot. Wren Wood Antiques is the perfect place to pick up a vintage souvenir. Located in the heart of downtown on Cholokka Boulevard, the store specialises in antique furniture and collectibles handpicked from estate sales, auctions, and private collections.
Next door is another local favourite, The Shop. This quirky antiques and gift store, first opened in 1980, is a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind items, including folk art, seasonal and holiday décor, wall art, garden décor, kitchenware, clocks, and more.
Grab a snack after shopping at one of Micanopy’s many locally-owned eateries. If you love barbecue, you’ll love the Pearl Country Store, which serves its famous ribs, chicken, and pork alongside an eclectic range of country store items, including jams, fresh farm produce, maps, books, local wines, and more. For some entertainment with your meal, visit Coffee n Cream Cafe, a popular lunch and coffee spot that has been in business for over 20 years and features daily live music.
Parks and Preserves
Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Micanopy’s beautiful scenery, typical of the North Florida uplands, which are renowned for their diverse tropical fauna, towering live oaks, and laurel oaks. Visit the Micanopy Native American Heritage Preserve to hike the land above Lake Tuscawilla, where a native village once stood. An interpretive trail begins at the visitors' kiosk, passing a traditional burial ground, and continues through forests scattered with vibrant wildflowers.
Meet some of Florida’s wildlife at the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Florida’s first state preserve, which is home to herds of wild bison and horses as well as alligators, deer, and almost 300 species of birds. The park features eight hiking trails and a 50-foot-high observation tower offering panoramic views of the Florida wilderness. Take the 0.25-mile Wacahoota Trail from the Visitors Center to visit the tower and get some incredible vacation photos.
Ten miles east of Micanopy lies a state park that honours a Pulitzer Prize winner. The Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park preserves the old Florida homestead where the author wrote her prize-winning novel, The Yearling, in the 1930s. The home is only accessible via guided tour, but the farmyard, gardens, grove, and trails are open year-round.
Named one of the ‘Best Small Towns in Florida’ by Travel + Leisure magazine, Micanopy is a must-visit if you’re planning a vacation in the state. One of the best times to visit is fall, when the summer heat and humidity have subsided, and the town celebrates the season with a lively Fall Festival. This beloved community tradition has been ongoing for over 50 years. That community spirit and respect for heritage are evident in Micanopy throughout the year. This is Florida at its finest, a southern oasis where visitors will find tranquil trails, historic homes, charming stores, and a warm welcome.
