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Discover the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery Tour in Pennsylvania

The Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery Tour in Lititz, PA, invites visitors to step back in time to the birthplace of America’s pretzel industry. Founded in 1861 by Julius Sturgis, this charming historic bakery is recognized as the first commercial pretzel bakery in the United States.

Guests can tour the original bakery — built inside a stone house dating back to 1784 — and see how pretzels were made by hand using traditional methods. Visitors even get to twist their own pretzel, just as the original bakers did more than 160 years ago. The guided tour also includes displays of vintage baking equipment, historic ovens, and the story of how a simple Pennsylvania snack became a national favorite.

Why it’s special:
Julius Sturgis combines history, hands-on fun, and authentic flavor. As a family-run business that launched a snack food revolution, it’s a must-visit stop on any Pennsylvania factory tour or Lancaster County trip.

History/Story of Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery

In 1861, Julius Sturgis founded the first commercial pretzel bakery in America, right in the heart of Lititz, Pennsylvania. Using an old bread recipe that he adapted for a longer shelf life, Julius created the iconic hard pretzel — a snack that quickly became a Pennsylvania Dutch staple.

The Sturgis family has been baking pretzels for over five generations, preserving the same craftsmanship and recipes that made them famous. Today, the bakery remains family-owned, offering tours, demonstrations, and fresh pretzels baked daily for visitors.

What You’ll See & Do on the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery Tour

Step inside the historic 1861 bakery, America’s first commercial pretzel factory.
Learn about pretzel-making history and the Sturgis family legacy.
Watch live demonstrations of pretzel shaping and baking.
Try your hand at twisting your own pretzel using real dough.
See vintage ovens, tools, and original brickwork from the 1800s.
Browse the Pretzel Shop for fresh-baked snacks and unique gifts.

Hands-On Elements: Pretzel twisting activity, guided demonstration, tasting samples.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed throughout the bakery and shop.

Souvenirs & Extras:

Pretzel Shop offering fresh soft and hard pretzels, souvenirs, and apparel
Gift tins and Pennsylvania-made snacks

Pricing of Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery Tour

Guided Bakery Tour: ~$4.50 Adults, ~$4.00 Seniors, ~$3.50 Children (Ages 4–12)
Children under 4: Free
Group & School Tours: Available by reservation
Pretzel Twisting Only (No Tour): $3.00 per person

Practical Info for Visiting Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery

Duration: ~30–45 minutes
Format: Guided tour + interactive pretzel twisting + shop visit
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round; Mon–Sat 9:30 AM–4:30 PM, closed Sundays and major holidays
Audience: Families, school groups, snack lovers, and history buffs
Accessibility: Accessible on main level; some areas of historic building have narrow passages
Safety & Restrictions:

Children must be supervised during the dough activity
No pets inside (service animals welcome)

Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Educational programs available for students and groups

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes and a craving for pretzels!
Facilities: Gift shop, restrooms, free parking nearby
Closures & Downtime: Closed on Sundays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day

Location & Booking

Getting There: Located in historic downtown Lititz; street and public lot parking available
Booking: Walk-ins welcome; group reservations via JuliusSturgis.com
Cancellation & Refunds: Refunds for prepaid groups available with 24-hour notice
On-Site Extras: Pretzel twisting station, bakery demonstrations, gift shop

Nearby

Wilbur Chocolate Retail Store (Lititz)
Lititz Springs Park
Wolf Sanctuary of PA

FAQs About Visiting the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery

Is the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery really the first in America?
Yes, it was founded in 1861 and is officially recognized as America’s first commercial pretzel bakery.

Do I get to make my own pretzel?
Yes! Every visitor gets to twist their own pretzel using real dough during the tour.

Are samples included?
Fresh pretzel samples are available in the shop, and soft pretzels can be purchased after your tour.

Do I need to book ahead?
Walk-ins are welcome for small groups; advance reservations recommended for larger parties.

Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely — kids love the hands-on dough activity and the fun atmosphere.

Can I buy pretzels to take home?
Yes, the Pretzel Shop sells freshly baked pretzels, gift tins, and Sturgis family snacks.