Best Pretzels in Lancaster County: A Local's Guide

Here in Lancaster County, pretzels aren’t just a snack—they’re practically their own food group! Whether you’re all about the satisfying crunch of a hard pretzel or prefer the soft, chewy perfection of a warm pretzel fresh from the oven, this is the place to be. Pretzels come in all shapes and sizes here, but they’re united by one thing: deliciousness.

Our pretzel obsession dates back centuries, brought over by German immigrants in the 1700s. These Pennsylvania Dutch settlers didn’t just bring their love of “bretzels” with them—they turned it into an art form and a way of life. From family-owned bakeries steeped in tradition to cozy roadside stands serving up hand-rolled treats, here’s your guide to seven of the best pretzel spots in Lancaster County.

Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery – Lititz
Let’s start with the OG of pretzel-making: Julius Sturgis, America’s first commercial pretzel bakery. Established in 1861, this Lititz institution is the granddaddy of them all. Their 25-minute hands-on tour lets you try your hand at twisting pretzels while learning about the fascinating history of this beloved snack. The charming bakery shop is brimming with tasty pretzels, including hard and soft varieties, as well as gift-worthy souvenirs. It's a slice of history and flavor you won’t want to miss.

Hammond’s Pretzel Bakery – Lancaster
Tucked away on S. West End Avenue, about 2.5 miles from The Lancaster B&B, Hammond’s has been rolling out sourdough pretzels by hand at the same location since 1931. Their old-fashioned process is a labor of love, allowing the dough to rise to perfection. The care they take in hand-rolling and twisting gives each pretzel its unique texture and flavor. You can buy their distinctive pretzels in their Lancaster bakery store, where you’ll also find seasonal flavored pretzel pieces, chocolate-covered pretzels, and more.

Martin’s Pretzel Bakery – Akron
For a truly authentic hard pretzel experience, head to Martin’s Pretzel Bakery. This family-run business has been hand-rolling pretzels since the 1930s. Their simple, all-natural recipe of unbleached flour, water, salt, and yeast creates a pretzel that’s harder and crunchier than most, with a distinct flavor that speaks to generations of tradition. You can find their pretzels at regional grocery stores and markets, but we suggest going right to the source at their small bakery store for the freshest pretzels.

Pretzels on Market – Lancaster Central Market
When you’re exploring Lancaster’s historic Central Market, Pretzels on Market is a must-visit. They whip up Lancaster- and Philly-style pretzels with a variety of dipping sauces. Start your morning with one of their breakfast pretzels or grab a freshly baked snack while browsing the market's offerings. Their warm, golden pretzels are a local favorite, and their friendly service makes every visit special.

Countryside Road Stand – Ronks
This Amish-run roadside stand is a little slice of heaven in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Their soft pretzels are hand-rolled and pair perfectly with a cold homemade birch beer. Beyond pretzels, this charming stand offers an array of homemade goods, from jams to quilts, making it a great stop for unique souvenirs. The cozy, rural setting adds to its undeniable charm.

Immergut Soft Pretzels – Intercourse
Immergut means “always good,” and they live up to the name! Their buttery, salty soft pretzels and pretzel wraps are made fresh daily. The warm, pillowy texture and rich flavor are irresistible, especially when paired with their fresh-squeezed lemonade. It’s the perfect stop to indulge in a quintessential Lancaster County treat.

Dutch Country Soft Pretzels – New Holland
The moment you approach Dutch Country Soft Pretzels, the aroma will reel you in. Watch their team make pretzels in all shapes (nuggets, sticks, rolls, braids)—something they’ve been doing for over 30 years. Their soft pretzels are baked to golden perfection, with a flavor that’s both savory and satisfying. This is where the locals go to satisfy their pretzel cravings.

No trip to Lancaster County is complete without indulging in this iconic salty snack. During your next stay with us at The Lancaster B&B, taste for yourself why pretzels are more than just a food in Pennsylvania—they’re a tradition, a craft, and a little bit of happiness with a twist.