Visiting the Amish community in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, offers a unique opportunity to experience a lifestyle that has remained largely unchanged for nearly 300 years. The Amish in Lancaster, known for their simple living, plain dress, and discernment in how they adopt modern conveniences, remain an integral part of the region’s cultural fabric.

To gain a deeper understanding of Amish traditions and daily life, consider shopping at local shops and markets, join a tour, seek out well-respected literature about the Amish, and chat with locals to gain authentic insights. Consider taking a horse and buggy ride, visit the Mennonite Life Visitors Center to learn more about the Anabaptist faith traditions, or visit a local tourist destination that provides an introduction into the Amish way of life.

Here are ten facts about the Amish in Lancaster that you might not know: 

1. Use of Mirrors: While the Amish avoid photographs, considering them graven images, they do use mirrors. Women use them for hair arrangement, and men for shaving, as mirrors are not viewed as vanity objects.
2. No Dietary Restrictions: The Amish have no specific dietary prohibitions. They often enjoy traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine but dine at various restaurants, including popular chains.
3. Tax Obligations: Despite their separation from modern society, the Amish pay income, sales, property, and public school taxes. Due to religious beliefs, they are exempt from Social Security taxes and benefits.
4. Unique Hymnal: In their church services, the Amish sing from the “Ausbund,” considered the oldest hymnal in continuous use, with songs dating back to the Anabaptists of Europe.
5. Hospital Visits: Whiles sometimes favoring homeopathic remedies, the Amish seek medical care from hospitals and doctors when necessary, balancing traditional practices with modern healthcare.
6. Distinctive Buggy Features: Amish buggies often have steel-rimmed wheels. Battery-operated lights and reflective features are used for road safety. 
7. Recreational Activities: Volleyball and baseball are popular sports among the Amish, but participation in an organized league is discouraged (as it takes them away from family life). They also engage in crafts like quilting and woodworking, blending recreation with productivity.
8. Transportation Choices: While known for horse-drawn buggies, many Amish will hire local drivers to take them to work, shopping, appointments, long excursions, etc. This informal taxi service has existed for many decades….long before Uber and Lyft came onto the scene!  Foot-powered scooters are also popular for short distances.
9. Language: In addition to English, many Amish speak Pennsylvania German (also known as Pennsylvania Dutch), a dialect rooted in the Palatinate German of the 18th century.
10. Community Gatherings: The Amish hold worship services in their homes rather than church buildings. These gatherings occur every other Sunday, with each family in a district hosting neighbors for worship about once or twice a year.