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Lititz PA earned the title of “Coolest Small Town” in 2013 from Budget Travel Magazine, and it has only been getting better since then. The town should be included in every Lancaster County itinerary as it offers lots to see and do with an easily walkable downtown and lots of history when visiting Lancaster, PA. Scroll down for my recommendations on the best things to do in Lititz PA in a day.
The Best Things to See and Do in Lititz PA
Wilbur Chocolate
48 N. Broad Street
You can’t go wrong with chocolate! Before Pennsylvania was known for Hershey’s, there was Wilbur Chocolate. This chocolate factory, in business for more than 125 years, can be toured. Even if you only go to the gift shop, you’ll see staff making chocolate before your eyes.
Their claim to fame is the Wilbur Bud, a perfect drop of chocolate that melts in your mouth. While I’m a fan of dark chocolate, many rave about the mix of dark and milk chocolate.
Take a Food Tour of Lititz PA
Foodies rejoice! Lancaster County Food Tours offers a “Come Eat Lititz” tour featuring six stops where guests can sample some local delicacies. This three-hour tour is informative and while learning about the town and its people, through food and drink! What a great way to experience Lititz!
Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery
219 E. Main Street
America’s first pretzel bakery opened in 1861. Visitors today can see how the town and the business have changed over the years. Pay $3.25 to take a tour and make your pretzel! Whether you tour or not, try one of their pretzels!
Appalachian Brewing Company
55 N. Water Street
Located in the building that formerly housed a paper-box factory and Clair Brothers, sound, light, and staging company, this brewery is a fun place to hang out. Enjoy live music on two stages while enjoying some brews and a sandwich.
Lititz Springs Park
24 N. Broad Street
This private park is beautifully maintained for the public’s use. The Band Shell is the setting for the town’s 4th of July concerts. The playgrounds are some of the best around. It is a great spot to sit and feed the ducks or just take a breather from all the exploring. The area has been a natural gathering place beginning more formally since 1780. Today, the town and the Moravian churches maintain the park’s beauty.
Lititz Farmers Market
9 N. Water Street
If you’re visiting on a Thursday afternoon during the warmer months (mid-May to mid-October), don’t miss visiting the local farmers market. You’ll get to see lots of local products and produce. [Please note that this event was canceled for 2020 but will return in 2021.]
Shop the Main Street Boutiques in Lititz PA
Dotted along Main Street, visitors will find all kinds of boutiques. I got a jump start on my Christmas shopping at Atlas General Store. This purveyor of home decor, kitchen accessories, and odds and ends, is a perfect place for hard-to-buy people on your list.
As a collector of jewelry from local artisans during my travels, Purple Robin Reserve houses unique, locally made pottery, jewelry, wood, glass, and paintings. I found a cute cork bracelet.
At Sweet Legacy Gourmet, treat yourself to some freshly made fudge or other delicious confection. The sweet smell greets you as you open the door. You can tell that everything is lovingly made and fresh.
Are you looking for something a little exotic for your next meal? The Savory Gourmet specializes in unique treats – exotic meats, gourmet cheeses, and other edible treats. It is the perfect stop to create a memorable charcuterie board or an unforgettable barbecue.
Second Fridays
From 5 to 9 pm, year-round, Lititz’s Main Street comes alive with music, dancers, artists, and entertainers. Many businesses stay open late.
Park for free on the streets or the lots behind the Main Street shops.
Where to Eat in Lititz PA
Tomato Pie Cafe
23 N. Broad Street
Their signature dish is a tomato pie, not to be confused with pizza. Fresh red tomatoes, topped with cheese, are baked into a pie shell. But there is so much more! From breakfast all day to soups and sandwiches and burgers and pasta! You’re sure to find something to please everyone in your group.
Bulls Head Public House
14 E. Main Street
Located inside The Sutter Inn, Bulls Head Public House has been recognized by USA Today as the best beer bar in the US and been named the best beer bar in Pennsylvania for the last four years by Craftsbeer.com.
This traditional British pub offers great appetizers and pub fare. Don’t miss the Full English Breakfast served every Saturday morning from 8 to 11 am.
Where to Stay in Lititz PA
Convinced that you should spend more than just one perfect day in Lititz, PA, and plan to spend an ideal weekend or longer? There are many lodging options in town, and Lititz makes a good base for exploring the rest of Lancaster County.
The Wilbur Lititz – Tapestry Collection by Hilton
50 N. Broad Street
Located in a former chocolate factory building and opened in October 2019, The Wilbur Lititz offers 74 rooms with Hilton Hotel’s Tapestry Collection attention to detail. Easy to walk to all that Lititz has to offer and a short drive to Lancaster and other nearby hot spots. Modern comfort in the middle of historic Lancaster County.
General Sutter Inn
14 E. Main Street
Located at the intersection of Main and Broad Streets is the General Sutter Inn; this historic Inn has been around since 1764. It has been modernized for comfort and is popular with wedding parties. But the Rock Lititz Penthouse is the main attraction – six rooms designed with a rock and roll theme!
Hotel Rock Lititz
50 Rock Lititz Boulevard
Located outside of town, the Hotel Rock Lititz is perfect for a getaway. Use the indoor pool or hot tub. Play a game of pool. Rent a bike to ride the nearby trails. Some rooms include a kitchenette. Feel like a rock star for your stay!
Bed & Breakfast Options in Lititz PA
Located along Broad and Main Street are three bed and breakfast options near the historic downtown and within walking distance. These affordable stays include landmark settings offering local treats.
Lititz PA is a great getaway!
After being pleasantly surprised by the beauty and all the things to see and do in Lititz PA, I can certainly see how it earned the title of Coolest Small Town. This historic town embraced its roots and increased its visibility.
The town hosts a Pretzel Fest in May and a Taste of Lititz in June, just two pretty unique events that draw large crowds. October usually sees a Chocolate Walk (being hosted virtually in 2020). I first heard of Lititz due to its annual Fire & Ice Festival in February, featuring incredible ice carvings. Just peek at Lititz’s calendar for all the offerings!
If you’re in the Lancaster PA area, Lititz is worth a visit for a day, if not for a weekend.
Looking for more stuff to do nearby? These posts might interest you:
- 10 Great Amish Gifts and Souvenirs
- The Philadelphia Sights You Won’t Believe People Love
- Hope Hill Lavender Farm in Pennsylvania
Happy travels!
Annick, The Common Traveler