Zippo/Case Museum & Factory Tour — Bradford, Pennsylvania

Discover the Zippo/Case Museum & Factory Tour in Pennsylvania

Celebrate true American craftsmanship at the Zippo/Case Museum & Factory Tour in Bradford, Pennsylvania — the home of two of America’s most iconic brands: Zippo windproof lighters and Case knives. This engaging self-guided experience takes visitors through the history, artistry, and innovation behind these world-famous products. Guests can watch Zippo technicians repair lighters, see how Case knives are crafted, and explore interactive exhibits that showcase over 90 years of design and heritage.

Why it’s special: The Zippo/Case Museum isn’t just a showcase of products — it’s a living tribute to American ingenuity and durability. Every lighter and knife is made with the same precision, pride, and lifetime guarantee that have made both brands beloved worldwide.

History/Story of Zippo and Case

Zippo Manufacturing Company was founded in 1932 by George G. Blaisdell, who wanted to create a reliable, windproof lighter that could be used anywhere. Just down the road, the W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company — founded in 1889 — was already crafting high-quality knives that became a staple for collectors and outdoorsmen. Today, the two brands share a flagship museum in Bradford, celebrating over a century of craftsmanship and innovation that continues to define American-made quality.

What You’ll See & Do on the Zippo/Case Museum Tour

• Explore galleries showcasing vintage Zippo lighters, Case knives, and custom designs

• Watch live demonstrations of Zippo lighter repairs by factory technicians

• Learn about the design and assembly process for Zippo’s famous windproof mechanism

• Discover how Case knives are forged, honed, and assembled with precision

• Visit the massive Zippo lighter-shaped entrance — a selfie favorite!

Hands-On Elements: Operate interactive displays, browse historical artifacts, and see technicians at work in real time.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography encouraged in museum and retail areas.
Souvenirs & Extras: Flagship store featuring collectible Zippo lighters, Case knives, and custom engraving options.

Pricing of the Zippo/Case Museum & Factory Tour

Admission: Free
Guided Group Tours: Available by reservation for schools, clubs, and tour groups (no charge).

Practical Info for Visiting Zippo/Case Museum

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Format: Self-guided museum experience with live demonstrations
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round, Monday–Saturday; closed major holidays
Audience: Families, collectors, history enthusiasts, and travelers along Route 219
Accessibility: Fully accessible facility
Safety & Restrictions: All ages welcome; no restrictions for photography or exhibits
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Free group visits available by reservation
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable clothing and a camera for photos
Facilities: Gift shop, restrooms, free parking, and outdoor sculpture park
Closures & Downtime: Closed Sundays and holidays (check site for seasonal hours)

Nearby

• Penn-Brad Oil Museum — dedicated to Pennsylvania’s oil heritage

• Kinzua Bridge State Park — home to the dramatic Kinzua Sky Walk

• Eldred World War II Museum — military history exhibits 20 minutes away

FAQs About Visiting the Zippo/Case Museum

Is the tour free?
Yes — admission to the Zippo/Case Museum and demonstrations is completely free.

Do I get to see the lighters being made?
You’ll see lighter repair technicians at work and exhibits explaining the full production process.

Can I buy custom Zippos or knives?
Yes, the flagship store offers on-site engraving and custom orders.

Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely — the museum includes interactive exhibits and fun displays for all ages.

How long should I plan to visit?
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring exhibits, the repair shop, and the store.