October is right around the corner! The air is becoming breezy and crisp, and the leaves are beginning to change into vibrant shades of orange and fall to the ground, making it the perfect time to take in the fall foliage and snap a few breathtaking photos while you’re at it! To help you get that perfect, Instagram-worthy shot, Secret D.C. has rounded up some of the best fall photo destinations in the DMV:
1. The Old Lucketts Store
It may be just over an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C., but the Old Lucketts Store is well-worth the trip. Not only does it offer photo ops with vintage cars, pretty pumpkins, and seasonal mums, but you can grab new and antique furniture and seasonal home decor while you’re there!
2. Rock Creek Park
Few things can top an autumn hike! Rock Creek Park boasts a number of hiking trails suitable for all experience levels, so you can take a peaceful stroll or get in a workout amid the fall foliage and soothing sounds of nature!
3. Tidal Basin
There’s just something about the way the changing leaves complement the monuments around the Tidal Basin that will leave you breathless!
4. Georgetown
Georgetown is the ultimate D.C. destination for fall vibes: the old homes covered in vines, the leaves littering the streets in reds and yellows, the spooky season staple “Exorcist Stairs,” and long walks along the C&O Canal can’t be beat!
5. Yayoi Kusama’s “Pumpkin” at the Hirsshorn Museum
What’s more festive than a pumpkin?! It may not be real but it’s just as beautiful. Spend a fall day pursuing the Hirsshorn Museum and Yayoi Kusama’s “Pumpkin,” on display as part of the One with Eternity: Yayoi Kusama in the Hirshhorn Collection.
6. U.S. National Arboretum
When the fall foliage reaches its peak and begins to envelope the National Capitol Columns, it’s like you’re in your own little autumnal dreamworld!
7. Filomena
D.C. favorite Filomena is known for two things: mouth-watering Italian food and over-the-top seasonal decorations! Swing by the restaurant and treat yourself to fantastic photos and a delicious feast!
8. Nalls Produce
Over the bridge in Alexandria, you can get the full fall experience! With a pumpkin fort, a gourd display, and hay bales, you can get a festive fall photoshoot and seasonal produce in one swoop!
9. The Smithsonian Castle
Few things look as magical as the Smithsonian Castle at dusk. As the leaves change, the trees begin to go bare, and the sun sets, you might just think you’re staring at Hogwarts instead!
10. CityCenterDC
Sure, this isn’t traditional, but it combines city glamor with fall festivity: the subtle string lights, autumnal shaded ribbons, and a stroll through a stunning alley. It’s the perfect place to stage your shot!
11. Brossman’s Farm Stand
Is it really fall if you didn’t get photographed apple-picking, perusing pumpkins, and snagging some fall treats in the process? A trip to this farm stand is a win-win!