Micanopy: The Florida Town that Time Forgot

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

Tucked away in the rural heart of Florida, the town of Micanopy (pronounced “Mick-Uh-NO-Pee”) is like something out of a time capsule.

Unpretentious and unassuming, Micanopy, FL is home to a collection of antique shops, art galleries, bed and breakfasts, family-run restaurants and the Micanopy Historical Society Museum.

Micanopy is located one mile off I-75 and 10 miles south of Gainesville.

You can also access the town from S.R. 441, the road mentioned in the Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ song “American Girl”.

Speaking of Tom Petty, don’t miss Tom Petty Florida-inspired songs.

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9 Fun Facts about the Quaint Town of Micanopy

Despite its small size (in 2020, the population was only 626 people), Micanopy has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s.
The town is named after Seminole chief Micco Napee, who lived in the area around the Second Seminole War.
Micanopy is known as the oldest inland town in Florida.
It’s often referred to as the “town that time forgot.” Whether you’re strolling down the tree-lined streets or browsing the local antique shops, it’s easy to see why.
The residents have always been proud of their history and worked diligently to keep the buildings and the landscape well-maintained.
In 1983, Micanopy made the National Register of Historic Places list.
The people are extremely friendly, the food is great, and the weather is amazing year-round.
Actors River and Joaquin Phoenix lived with their family in Micanopy when they were teenagers.
The 1990s movie, “Doc Hollywood”, featuring actors Michael J. Fox, Bridget Fonda, and Woody Harrelson, was filmed in Micanopy. The antique shop, Delectable Collectables, was used as a bank in the film.

Today, the town is a popular destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the daily grind.

Where to Eat in Micanopy

Mosswood Farm Store & Bakehouse

We recommend starting your Micanopy adventure with coffee and a pastry from Mosswood.

Pecan pie from Mosswood Farm Store in Micanopy

They also sell homemade pies, local jams, jellies, books, garden seeds, and lots more.

Open Thursday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm.

Mosswood Farm Store and Bake House Address: 703 NE Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy, FL 32667

Old Florida Cafe

You can’t go wrong with one of their delicious, authentic Cubans, Reubens, BLT’s, or homemade Black Beans & Rice.

Plus, the eclectic, vintage decor screams Authentic Florida.

Photo of Cuban sandwich from Old Florida Cafe

Open Wednesday to Friday from 11 am to 4 pm. Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 4:30 pm. Closed on Monday and Tuesdays.

Old Florida Cafe Address: 203 NE Cholokka Blvd. Micanopy, FL 32667

Coffee N’ Cream – A Micanopy Cafe

Whether you are looking for a great place for breakfast, lunch, coffee or ice cream, this is your place.

Sherry's Chicken Salad from Coffee and Cream Cafe — Source: Coffee and Cream Cafe on Facebook

The Sherry’s Chicken Salad is what dreams are made of.

The cafe is open every day (except for Wednesday) from 9 am to 5 pm.

Coffee N’ Cream Cafe Address: 201 NE Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy, FL 32667

Where to Shop in Micanopy

Delectable Collectables

This antique store in Micanopy has sold jewelry, rare books, and other historic collectibles for over 40 years.

Monica, the owner, is super friendly and has a wealth of knowledge. We found some great vintage Florida postcards here.

Open daily from 10:30 am to 5 pm.

Delectable Collectables Address: 112 NE Cholokka Blvd, Micanopy, FL 32667

Micanopy Outpost

Antiquers can always find a treasure or two with their vast amount of items: furniture, books, records, pottery, vases, records, and all sorts of other collectibles and artifacts.

Micanopy Outpost Florida Highwaymen painting — Photo Source: Micanopy Outpost on Facebook

They also are known for having Florida Highwaymen art.

Open most days from 11 am to 5 pm.

Micanopy Outpost Address: 205 NE Cholokka Blvd, Micanopy, FL 32667

Where to Stay in Micanopy

Herlong Mansion

Built in 1845, this elegant Bed & Breakfast is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Without question, it’s Southern Hospitality at its finest. They serve a fantastic breakfast every morning and platters of home-baked cookies and wine in the evenings.

Herlong Mansion Address: 402 NE Cholokka Blvd, Micanopy, FL 32667

Annual Micanopy Event

49th Annual Micanopy Fall Festival

In 2024, the popular Fall festival is on Saturday, October 26th, from 9 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, October 27th, from 9 am to 4 pm.

The event takes place on Cholokka Boulevard, which is open only to foot traffic during the festival, offering a scenic location for this well-attended arts and crafts festival.

If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Micanopy is the perfect spot.

Check it out — you won’t be disappointed!

While in the area, don’t miss these other destinations in North Central Florida:

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