Lititz Is The Best Small Town In Pennsylvania For A Weekend Getaway
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
With its many charming small towns, enchanting villages, and vibrant big cities, Pennsylvania offers so many weekend getaway destinations that it might be hard to decide where to go first. However, if you’re craving a bit of the friendliness and charm of yesteryear, you’ll find no better small town in Pennsylvania than Lititz for a weekend getaway. Whether you like spending your days shopping or indulging in delicious food, you’ll find many things to do in Lititz, PA
Is Lititz Worth Visiting?
The answer is a resounding, "yes," but you really have to experience the enchanting small town for yourself to appreciate all that it has to offer. A throwback to yesteryear, Lititz once earned the title of the "Coolest Small Town in America." With a darling downtown dotted with shops and restaurants and one-of-a-kind attractions, like the Wolf Sanctuary of PA, Lititz attracts visitors who want to enjoy a slower pace of life in a town where modern amenities combine with the friendliness of yesteryear.
With a population of just over 5,500 residents, Lititz is a quintessential small Pennsylvania town that dates back to 1756. However, the town didn’t incorporate until 1888. Lititz boasts a rich history, too, all the way back to 1777 when injured and sick soldiers, on General George Washington’s orders, were quartered in the town. It’s also home to the oldest girls’ school – Linden Hall – in the United States. You’ll get a peek at (and a taste of!) some of Lititz's rich history on your weekend getaway.
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How To Get To Lititz
Nestled in northern Lancaster County, Lititz sits on Route 501. It’s just eight miles to the north of Lancaster, arguably the heart of Amish country in Pennsylvania. If you don’t have time for an entire weekend, you can easily day trip to Lititz from Hershey (26 miles), Harrisburg (38 miles), Gettysburg (73 miles), and Philadelphia (75 miles away), several of Pennsylvania’s major cities. Those in the western part of the state, including Pittsburgh (236 miles) and Erie (331 miles) have a bit of a drive to this enchanting small town. Travel to Lititz is on major highways, including the Pennsylvania Turnpike, so it should be smooth sailing.
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Getting Around Lititz
When you’re exploring downtown Lititz, you can easily do so on foot. However, if you’re driving, you’ll find it’s pretty easy to maneuver, too. You’ll find parking spots with parking meters (remember to adhere to time limits and other rules), or keep an eye out for one of the public parking lots. Lititz also has a bike share program through Lititz Bikeworks. Biking is a fun and easy way to explore the charming town, too.
Best Time To Visit Lititz
Lititz is the perfect destination all year around. Springtime means the return of the Farmers Market while the highlight of the summer is the annual 4th of July Celebration at Lititz Springs Park. If you love Christmas, you’ll love Lititz, especially when the town is shimmering in lights and adorned in decorations. Christmastime also means gathering for the Annual Christmas Carol Sing and embarking on the Christmas Candlelight Tour. One of the first big events of every New Year is the Fire & Ice Festival, an epic 10-day celebration that features ice sculptures, good food, and a whole lot more.
Where To Stay In Lititz
Regardless of your budget, you’ll find cozy accommodations that fit your price range and your needs in Lititz, which is home to hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts. Book your nights away at Lititz Springs Inn and Spa, nestled right on East Main Street right downtown for a one-of-a-kind stay.
Lititz Springs Inn And Spa, 14 E Main St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Before it was a charming inn, Lititz Springs Inn and Spa was known as Zum Anker, a tavern and inn that opened in 1764. Throughout its history, the historic hotel changed names numerous times, with owner David Stoudt crowning it the Lititz Springs Inn and Spa. Rooms offer a full menu of modern amenities, with prices starting around $110 a night.
Bulls Head Public House, 14 E Main St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
The inn is conveniently located to shops and restaurants in downtown Lititz and is also home to the Bulls Head Public House. It consistently earns props as Pennsylvania’s best beer bar and features a menu of classics, including fish and chips, burgers, and fried chicken. Takeout is also available if you feel like dining in your room or having a picnic at Lititz Springs Park.
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Day One: Meet Endangered Wolves, Go On A Walking Tour, And Get To Know Lititz
Our day one itinerary is about new experiences and getting to know Lititz better. However, before we do that, we’re going to start our adventure at one of Pennsylvania’s most unique destinations.
Did you know there haven’t been wild wolves in Pennsylvania for decades? Yep, and there likely won’t be any in the future, as the state has no intentions of reintroducing them into the environment. You’ll only find one place in Pennsylvania to see wild wolves and that’s at Wolf Sanctuary of PA. Join a guided tour of the sanctuary, where you’ll learn about the resident wolves and wolves in general. Reservations are a must.
Wolf Sanctuary of PA, 465 Speedwell Forge Rd, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Guided tours of Wolf Sanctuary of PA are offered several days during the week. Be sure to check the sanctuary website for days, hours, and current pricing. The sanctuary offers specialized photography tours and private tours. It also hosts a Full Moon Fundraiser on those Saturdays nearest to the full moon.
Train Station Welcome Center, 18 N Broad St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Even if you have maps on your phone, you might want to pick up a few paper maps and chat with the staff about any activities or events being held the weekend you’re in town. This is another chance to enjoy some of the old-fashioned hospitality and friendliness for which Lititz is known. It’s also a good way to ask "what is Lititz known for" from those who live there.
Let’s stop by Tomato Pie Café on Broad Street. It’s one of the best places for breakfast in Pennsylvania. Lunch is great here too!
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Tomato Pie Cafe, 23 N Broad St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Its signature dish – tomato pie – is well worth a try. The restaurant describes it as "fresh red tomatoes seasoned perfectly with herbs and baked in our own pie shell topped with a blend of cheeses. It’s not Pizza!" The menu also features burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Check out the seasonal menu, too.
Historic Lititz Walking Tours, LLC, 24 N Broad St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Join a tour with Historic Lititz Walking Tours, LLC, which is open seasonally. The 45-minute walking tour is offered at a nominal charge and includes stops at 25 historical sites.. That’s a whole lot of history jam-packed into a fascinating tour. You’ll stop at such sites as Mary Dixon Chapel and Linden Hall.
Lititz Historical Foundation, 145 E Main St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Join a 45-minute guided tour then take some time to explore the Mary Oehme Garden, right behind the museum. Your best bet is to call 717-627-4636 to schedule a tour and to get the current admission prices. By the way, kiddos under 10 are free!
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How about an old-fashioned family meal tonight?
Lititz Family Cupboard Restaurant & Buffet, 12 W Newport Rd, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Saturday night's feature is the PA Dutch Style Buffet, which features a range of classics – rotisserie chicken, butter noodles, and homemade mashed potatoes. Its one of the best buffets in Pennsylvania! Check out the menu, too, where you’ll find everything from chicken dishes to burgers.
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Day Two: Twist Pretzels, A Stroll Through The Park, And Shop Downtown
Slate Cafe, 43 E Main St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
If you like bakeries and cafés, then this place will treat your taste buds to such deliciousness as strawberry stuffed French toast, baked oatmeal, or a breakfast wrap. Pair it with coffee, tea, a smoothie, or an espresso.
It’s one of those activities in Lititz you have to experience at least once. Join a tour of the pretzel bakery that dates back to 1861. During the tour, you’ll get a unique glimpse at how pretzels are rolled – and learn to roll one yourself. After you’ve learned how to twist pretzels, sample some of them then check out the store, where you can stock up on all your favorite types of pretzels.
Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, 219 E Main St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Tours are offered every day of the week and the prices are nominal for adults and youth. Visit the entity website for current days, hours, and pricing,
Wilbur Chocolates, just a half of a mile from Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery.
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Wilbur Chocolate Retail Store, 45 N Broad St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
If you love chocolate, you’ll think you’ve landed in paradise at this chocolate shop that dates back to 1894. Did you know that Muhammad Ali even had a Wilbur Chocolate candy bar named after him in the 1970s? Stock up on the famous Wilbur Buds, peanut butter meltaways, and chocolate-covered fruit.
Lititz Springs Park, 24 N Broad St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Looking as though it’s stepped from the pages of a fairy tale, the park offers something for everyone – from a playground for the kiddos to a fountain by which you can relax. Reflect at the Wall of Remembrance, a tribute to those who have played significant roles in Lititz’s rich history. Play a game of volleyball, or watch the ducks float. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
Let’s have lunch at Bruno’s Hoagies, which earns rave reviews for its, well, hoagies.
Bruno's of Lititz, 11 E Kleine Ln, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Expect a fresh meal and friendly service at this local favorite. Bruno’s serves a range of classic hoagies – old Italian, roast beef, and turkey. Meatless options are also available. The menu also features sandwiches and soups.
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Isabella's Ice Cream Parlor, 110 E Main St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Have your ice cream scooped into a sundae, a homemade cone, or a delicious pretzel cone. The shop is also a stop along our special Ice Cream Trail itinerary.
Heavenly Soaps & Scents, 33 E Main St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Atlas General Store, 46 E Main St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Candy*ology, 69 E Main St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
If you’re a fan of antiques, you’ll find several shops in town, including Moravian House Antiques. Indulge your inner child at Candy*ology, where you’ll find all of your childhood favorite candies.
Chilangos Authentic Mexican Restaurante, 56 N Broad St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
This is a BYOB destination, so keep that in mind. Browse the menu brimming with favorites such as fresh salads, tamales, burritos, and tacos. For a hearty Mexican meal, try one of the platters. The Carne Asada, for example, comes with ribeye, rice, beans, salad, and tortillas.
Even if you don’t have an entire weekend to spare, you can pack a lot of fun into a day trip to Lititz. Have more than a weekend? Lititz is perfect for a longer getaway, too. Chances are, once you visit, you’ll be back again.
Next time you’re looking for the best small-town getaway in Pennsylvania, pack your bags and book a hotel in Lititz. Have you been to this enchanting small town? What do you like about it? Any advice for those who plan to travel here? What else would you include in a Lititz travel guide? Let us know in the comments!
After you’ve visited Lititz, you might want to start exploring other small towns in Pennsylvania. Check out the nine small towns in Pennsylvania that are full of charm and perfect for a weekend escape. (Notice that Lititz tops the list!) And if you’re looking for somewhere to stay along the road, consider the Fairfield Inn & Suites Lancaster in Lancaster.
From the Hawaiian Island of Oahu to the coast of Massachusetts and everywhere in between, come along with OnlyInYourState as we introduce you to the best Small Town Getaways you can take this year. From nature lovers and foodies to history buffs and shopaholics, there’s something for everyone within these unforgettable, two-day itineraries curated by our local travel experts just for you.
Not Your Average Bucket List Podcast
Only In Your State’s podcast Not Your Average Bucket List takes a deep dive into Lititz, Pennsylvania and everything it has to offer. Our hosts, Marisa Roman and Sara Heddleston, discuss what their “Perfect Day” in Lititz would consist of. From wildlife hiking trails to sleeping in a cottage by the ocean, take a look at the infographic below to get your own suggestions for the perfect day exploring this small town.
To discover even more about Lititz, Pennsylvania in a fun, easily-digestible manner, tune in to OnlyInYourState’s brand new podcast, Not Your Average Bucket List, where we talk all about this charming town. Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
And last, but certainly not least, if you’re still in the mood for more Pennsylvania adventures, take a look at this video about the Philadelphia Magic Garden:
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
More Adventures in Pennsylvania
Where can we find state parks in Pennsylvania?
- Ravensburg State Park along the Jersey Shore features a hiking trail, picnic spots, and campsites.
- Erie Bluffs State Park in Lake City features soaring bluffs and fishing and boating opportunities.
- Allegheny Islands State Park in Cheswick is a 43-acre state park only accessible by boat.
Read on to learn more about some of the many other amazing state parks in Pennsylvania.
Where can we learn more about the history of Pennsylvania?
- The Duquesne Incline – Located in Pittsburgh, it is a century-old cable car that originally opened in 1877 and is today one of the few remaining inclines in the U.S.
- The Kinzua Viaduct – Located in Mount Jewett, when it was built in 188, it was the world's longest and highest railroad bridge. Today it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a National Engineering Landmark.
- The Independence Visitor's Center - Located in Philadelphia, it is the home of numerous historic documents including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, all of which were written and signed here.
Read on to learn more about the history of Pennsylvania.
Where can we go fishing in Pennsylvania?
- Lake Wilhelm located in Maurice K. Goddard State Park is where to go for walleye, crappie, northern pike, perch muskellunge, bluegill, and more.
- The Lehigh River in northeastern Pennsylvania features rainbow bass, muskie, small and largemouth bass, and more.
- Conneaut Lake in Crawford Count is the largest natural lake in Pennsylvania and brimming with Muskellunge, Northern Pike, Bluegill, and more.
Read on to learn more about some of the many other great places to go fishing in Pennsylvania.
Featured Addresses
Lititz, PA 17543, USA