National Trust Names Lititz, Pennsylvania to its 2009 list of America’s Distinctive Destinations

Washington, D.C. (January 13, 2009) - Today, the National Trust for Historic Preservation named Lititz, Pennsylvania one of its 2009 Dozen Distinctive Destinations. Since 2000, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has annually selected communities across the United States that offer cultural and recreational experiences different from the typical vacation destination. From dynamic downtowns and stunning architecture to cultural diversity and commitment to historic preservation, the selected destinations boast a richness of character and exude an authentic sense of place.

Nestled in the heart of the quiet, verdant fields of Pennsylvania’s Lancaster County, Lititz is the perfect antidote to high-powered city living. The town, located just 60 miles west of Philadelphia, possesses a picturesque charm rooted in its Moravian heritage that dates back to the middle of the 18th century. Against a backdrop dotted with old stone mills, log homes and wooden covered bridges, and echoing with the clip clop of horses’ hooves, Lititz offers a variety of attractions within easy walking distance of its appealing downtown district.

Established as a Moravian religious enclave, Lititz is a town rich with history. Its tree-lined streets are home to German, English and Victorian styles of architecture spanning more than 300 years. Many of the original buildings constructed by the Moravian Church still stand today and retain their distinguishing architectural features. The community’s legacy also resides in the seven-acre expanse of Lititz Springs Park. The site of noteworthy historical events, the park boasts shaded walkways, gurgling streams and a pristine landscape that has offered serenity and incomparable beauty for 200 years. This natural haven continues to host a variety of events throughout the year, most notably, the oldest continuous 4th of July celebration in the country.

“Thanks to its caring, preservation-minded residents, Lititz has an abundance of wonderful architecture and unabashed charm,” says Richard Moe, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Visitors looking to fulfill more than just their “historic” appetite can do so by snacking on some of the local homemade delicacies. Known for its culinary creations, Lititz is home to the Wilbur Chocolate Factory, which produces more than 170 million pounds of chocolate every year, and the Sturgis Pretzel House, where Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels are still baked in stone ovens, just as they were 145 years ago. Visitors can even tour the factory and try out the twisting process themselves. Although there are plenty of outlet shopping malls surrounding Lititz, the real buys are to be found in the town’s mix of independently owned boutiques and galleries, which are emporiums of authentic local country crafts and antiques. The 19th century General Sutter Inn offers lodging and dining on Main Street, and a number of bed-and-breakfast inns have been established in historic homes around town and early taverns and farmhouses in the surrounding rural countryside.

Lititz has a long history of recognizing and protecting its historic buildings. The town has kept commercial sprawl at bay while blending modern development with its original history and scale. Lititz is said to be the first community in Pennsylvania to establish a local historic district ordinance. The district was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.