Washington, D.C. — it’s America’s capital, the centerpiece of the US government, the hub of our politics, and the heartbeat of our nation’s legislation. One could say a trip to Washington, D.C. is like a right of passage for most Americans. And US citizens from all areas come to witness its iconic cherry blossoms and view some of the most pivotal monuments in the country’s history. But, I happen to think Washington, D.C. has so much more to offer travelers than governmental buildings and sights to be seen.
There’s a real beauty and buzz to D.C. There’s an energy and life to its streets and its people that’s incredible to both witness and to capture. Photographers, add Washington, D.C. to your bucket lists. Here, I’ve collected five Instagrammable photo spots in our nation’s capital to get you started.
Lincoln Memorial at sunset
Is there any sight that’s more moving in D.C. than the Lincoln Memorial? I think not! The Lincoln Memorial is always listed at the very top of every travel guide you’ll find for the capital, but it’s for good reason… and photographers will love its powerful message and beauty.
The Lincoln Memorial and the nearby Reflecting Pool are both always bursting with life, no matter what time of day you visit, though I happen to love capturing this monument right at the peak of sunset. Seeing the bold colors behind the backdrop of one of America’s most legendary buildings is a sight to behold. The sky high columns are lit with golden light, making their appearance seem so much more elegant and bold all at once. This, juxtaposed with the dreamy setting sun, leaves a magic in the air that’s just begging to be captured.
Adams Morgan neighborhood
The Adams Morgan Neighborhood of D.C. showcases the capital’s diverse cultural population. You’ll find charming row homes of many colors nestled between coffee shops, local bookstores, vintage boutiques, and more. Spend an hour or two getting lost in this neighborhood and you’re bound to leave with some exterior architecture shots that overflow with quintessential D.C. charm.
Chinatown
I always love to explore smaller, immigrant-history neighborhoods whenever I can fit it into my itinerary. Washington, D.C’s Chinatown is filled with amazing markets and restaurants, fragrant cafes, and restaurants. The jewel of the area, though, is its giant arch, which was actually one of the largest in the world when it was built in the 1980’s! Today, it’s just as much of a stunner — filled with intricate paintings and colorful details.
Kramerbooks
Get a bit off-the-beaten path and take a tour around the Capitol Hill neighborhood. This bustling part of the city is home to many young politicians and professionals, so you’ll notice an undeniable 24-hour-a-day buzz. You’ll find so many hidden gems as well as some iconic places too… think the US Capitol, Senate, House of Representatives and Supreme Court buildings and more! One of the most Instagrammable locations I stumbled upon is Kramerbooks, a local bookshop with a delightful storefront, dreamy interiors, and an inviting energy.
Library of Congress
Another Washington, D.C. necessity, especially while exploring the Capitol Hill neighborhood, is a stop at the Library of Congress. This research library serves the United States Congress, but it’s also the national library of the nation and the oldest federal cultural institution in the country. Amazing, right? Inside, you’ll find the visitor area to be simply staggering. The cavernous space is filled with so many architectural details that are almost too much to take in. It’s really a feast for the eyes! Photographers could spend hours capturing its grandeur, especially its overwhelming ceilings and marbled arches.
