Top 14 Engagement Locations in VA, DC, and MD for Stunning Photos

Lincoln Memorial

1. Lincoln Memorial – Washington, DC

A timeless classic, the Lincoln Memorial offers sweeping steps, grand marble columns, and golden hour light that creates the dreamiest glow for romantic portraits.

( Shoot for Laila studio)

2. Tidal Basin – Washington, DC

Best known for cherry blossoms in spring, the Tidal Basin offers scenic waterfront views and charming tree-lined paths perfect for soft, romantic engagement photos.

3. National Harbor – Maryland

With colorful waterfront backdrops, the Capital Wheel, and a lively atmosphere, National Harbor blends fun and elegance for couples who love vibrant, modern vibes.

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4. Carlyle House – Old Town Alexandria, VA

This hidden gem offers 18th-century charm with a beautiful garden and historic stonework—ideal for soft, vintage-inspired engagement sessions.

5. Thomas Jefferson Memorial – Washington, DC

Overlooking the Tidal Basin, this domed monument gives you elegant architecture, open skies, and stunning sunrise lighting for peaceful, intimate shots.

6. Library of Congress – Washington, DC

One of the most ornate buildings in the city, the Library of Congress stuns with its grand staircase, marble interiors, and old-world elegance.

7. Old Town Alexandria – Virginia

With its charming cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and historic brick buildings, Old Town Alexandria offers a romantic, storybook setting for classic engagement photos.

8. Citizens Ballroom – A Fêtewell Venue, Frederick, MD

Housed in a beautifully restored 1908 bank, Citizens Ballroom offers a luxurious and historic backdrop with 30-foot coffered ceilings, marble mosaic floors, and original bank vaults. This elegant venue provides a 16-hour rental window, allowing ample time for capturing stunning engagement photos in its grand and versatile spaces.

9. U.S. Capitol – Washington, DC

Iconic and majestic, the Capitol provides a powerful backdrop, especially at sunrise or golden hour, with lush gardens and wide-open space for variety.

10. National Gallery of Art – Washington, DC

This location offers a mix of art, architecture, and modern indoor elegance, perfect for couples who love a clean and cultured aesthetic.

11. Dumbarton Oaks – Georgetown, DC

A true fairytale garden tucked in the city, Dumbarton Oaks bursts with flowers, stone paths, and dreamy backdrops that change beautifully with the seasons.

12. Airlie House – Warrenton, Virginia

Tucked away in the Virginia countryside, Airlie House offers lush gardens, elegant architecture, and serene landscapes—perfect for a private, romantic engagement session with European garden vibes.

13. U.S. National Arboretum – Washington, DC

With open fields, wooded trails, and the iconic Capitol Columns, the National Arboretum is a stunning mix of nature and history—perfect for couples who want a peaceful, botanical vibe.

14. Smithsonian Gardens – Washington, DC

Nestled along the National Mall, the Smithsonian Gardens offer a diverse array of picturesque settings, from the formal Parterre and tranquil Moongate Garden to the vibrant Fountain Garden. These meticulously maintained spaces provide a romantic and serene backdrop for engagement photos, all without the need for a photography permit.