Micanopy, Florida

This town name might make you giggle when trying to say it, but that is one of its many charms.

Actually, the name is quite historic, belonging to Chief Micanopy of the Seminole tribe ("micanopy" literally translates into head chief). The town was founded in 1821, originally a trading post and eventually expanded into one of Florida's oldest inland towns.

This town has also been featured in a handful of magazines focused on southern living, as a cute, quaint little southern town that you should pull off the highway, park, and walk around like you're in Mayberry.

As part of my travels up to the Forgotten Coast of Florida, I decided to pull off the highway and enjoy a little detour.

I was headed to meet my family for the holidays, and seeing this adorable town all decorated in giant bows and wreaths made it feel like Stars Hollow in Gilmore Girls.

I pulled up into town just a little after 9:30am. It was so quiet and calm.

I took a little stroll around, enjoying the peace and quiet, checking out the holiday decorations and some fabulous artistic side paneling.

Cue Rascal Flatts’s song "Mayberry" and the line drinking an ice-cold cherry Coke.

For breakfast, I stopped in to Mosswood Farm Store & Bakehouse.

They bake everything fresh and are known for their brownies!

Also inside is a little general store with locally made candles, honey, and other fun trinkets.

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I got some croissants, a brownie (of course), and a broccoli cheddar quiche. When I mentioned that I would be hanging around to dine on the back porch, they warned me about Oreo the cat, whose name perfectly fit the color of his coat, who is obsessed with quiche. I thought to myself, "Wow”, this quiche must be amazing to have a cat obsessed with it.

I made my way to the back porch, sitting at one of the iron patio tables, watching the morning sun drench the plants and glow through the colored vases. It was like nature and day were yawning and just waking up. As I began to eat my quiche, which was delicious, I heard a meow, and lo and behold, Oreo, the quiche-loving cat, introduced himself. I could not have predicted how obsessed this cat was with quiche. Delicately decorated holiday cakes were cooling on a shelf, and he was solely focused on my quiche.

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I made my quiche dance around, passing it from one hand to the other, avoiding the pawing reach of Oreo. I did get to enjoy most of it. And only when Oreo resigned himself to missing out on cheesy, eggy, broccoli goodness, did I share a bite.

If you are an antique enthusiast and vintage treasure hunter like myself, then you have to check out the many shops of Micanopy. The upper part of NE 1st Street, lined with classic downtown structures that look like they belong in movies, has a row of fun vintage shopping. Whether you are looking for furniture, fashion, artwork from local artists, or holiday decor, come ready to find some special treasures to take home.

Don't forget to glance down any alleyways!

I found this shop tucked back in a narrow pathway between faded brick buildings. I saw the shop owner adding final touches to a stone bird bath out front. It was such a unique space with special curated items, from books to incense and candles to adorable children's clothing and beautiful timepieces. I enjoyed chatting with the shop owner and hearing her story. After living abroad for so many years, family brought her to this small town, and this little town gave her the inspiration and the desire to finally create the shop of her dreams and help people like me find treasures to add to their collection. While I loved the watch I left with it, I think our conversation was my favorite item I left with that day. Never underestimate a small town!

Before heading out, I had to stop by and check out the Herlong Mansion Bed & Breakfast. This beautiful colonial house caught my eye immediately during my initial stroll down the main street, and I couldn't leave without getting a closer look.

Built in 1845, this home, now turned inn, will transport anyone from the busy, hectic life of today to enjoy the simple pleasures of sitting on the front porch, wandering through vine-covered arches, and fresh cookies, all served with a large scoop of southern hospitality.

There are 11 rooms available to stay in the main house and 2 cottages on the property.

This is a great place to stay if you are looking to explore the nearby state park of Paynes Prairie (which I will talk about in another blog post) or the bustling city of Gainesville.

Whether you are headed north or headed south, flying on Highway 75, pull off, slow down, and enjoy the slow serenity of this sweet, small southern town.