Even before I became a full-time content creator, I have always loved scouting out the best seasonal photo locations wherever I go. There is something so magical about Holiday decorations especially, and in my opinion Washington DC has some of the best Christmas and Holiday decorations in the US. I had the privilege of living about an hour away from DC between late 2019 and early 2021, and I made it my goal to find the best holiday photos spots in Washington DC, despite the fact that many of them were on pause for 2020.
I am confident that this guide will help fellow photography lovers who will be in the DC area for the holidays. Even though I have not been able to visit all of these locations myself due to them being closed in 2020, I will be sure to update this post when I do see them for myself. If you are interested in any of my other travel photography guides, you can find them all here.
Georgetown
If I had to pick my favorite area in DC, Georgetown would without a doubt be at the top of the list. No matter what time of year it is, Georgetown is a lovely place to spend the day. I can’t recommend any specific locations in Georgetown for holiday-themed photos because the displays can change each year. I would highly suggest that if you have the time you should explore Georgetown for at least half a day, and enjoy walking around and scouting out seasonal displays yourself. There are plenty of seasonal store windows and charming home decorations for you to enjoy. If you need some help, DC City Girl on Instagram is a local who keeps her page updated with cutest Georgetown displays each year.
The Willard InterContinental Hotel
I have yet to visit the Willard InterContinental Hotel myself, but it tops every list of holiday photos spots in Washington DC that I have come across. If you are looking for a more glamorous and classic Christmas photo vibe, this might be your best bet on this list. Not only is the exterior of the hotel incredibly stunning, the architecture and tree inside are equally jaw-dropping. To sweeten the deal, the Willard InterContinental offers a well-reviewed and often sold out Holiday afternoon tea every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in December. Sign me up!
City Center DC
If you need to knock out some last-minute Christmas shopping while taking seasonal photos, CityCenter DC is your best bet. CityCenter DC encompasses more than five blocks of luxury shopping and dining options. They also have gorgeous and oversized seasonal displays that are perfect for Christmas photos. A word of warning; these displays can also draw huge crowds. If you want to get the best photos, visit on a weekday!
Enchant Christmas DC
Enchant Christmas DC is truly a spectacle to behold. It is located in Nationals Park and has something for everyone, even the Grinch-iest people in your party. There is an ice skating trail, a Christmas village full of food and artisan goods, and more. And it goes without saying, Enchant Christmas has probably the most fantastic light display you will see in all of DC. The theme and light installations change every year, which makes visiting this attraction the perfect Holiday tradition. I would never want to leave! Make sure you have your phone and camera fully charged to capture every second of your time here.
Four Seasons Hotel
If you are looking for a chic seasonal getaway, the Four Seasons Hotel in DC has got you covered. They have a variety of special holiday-themed experiences and dining options for you to chose from. In years past they have set up everything from mini chalets to enjoy a seasonal cocktail in to Instagram-worthy igloos in their famous Bourbon Steak restaurant.
Alexandria
Before you correct me, I know that Alexandria technically isn’t in Washington DC. But honestly, it is so close to DC that I feel like it is appropriate to add to this list. It is also absolutely worth your time. Just like Georgetown, Alexandria is a very charming place to spend at least a half day. I don’t have any specific seasonal displays to point out, but if you are down to walk around and explore I can promise you that you will find quite a few cute row houses and seasonal exteriors.
Union Station
There is something so magical to me about train stations at Christmastime. I am going to go ahead and blame The Polar Express and the Harry Potter books and movies for this association. Nevertheless, Washington DC’s Union Station only validates the Christmas-train connection for me. They put on some beautiful and classic holiday displays for all travelers onlookers to enjoy. As it is a functional train station, Union Station can get quite busy, but if you visit midday on a weekday you will be rewarded with mostly-empty spaces to take some dramatic seasonal photos.
Library of Congress Christmas Tree
Look at the above photo. Does it not speak for itself? Although I have had the honor of visiting the Library of Congress before, it was when I was in 6th grade! I cannot wait to go back during the holidays to visit this spectacular tree. The intricate ceilings of the Library of Congress only add to the tree’s beauty. Be sure to check online what the current visitation requirements are as typically you need to reserve a time in advance. Visiting is free! I am not 100% sure on what their current photography policies are, so be sure to ask when you visit before having a full-blown photoshoot.
Holidays at the Waterfront, National Harbor
The National Harbor is located across from Alexandria in Maryland, but I would be remiss if I did not include it in this list. It is without a doubt one of the best holiday photos spots in Washington DC as it has something for everyone. Holidays at the Waterfront is a seasonal event that includes extravagant holiday displays, seasonal activities, fireworks, lots of festive food and drinks, and more. Their impressive tree is 54 feet tall! Be sure to dress practically but still stylishly so that you can enjoy and capture every moment!
National Tree at Presidents Park & US Capitol Christmas Tree
I am including these two trees as one entry on this list because in my opinion, you do not need to see both. If you do want to see both trees, you can either walk for 40 minutes (2 miles) or drive for 10 minutes to get from one to the other. While these trees are both dazzling up close, I would recommend capturing them from far away so that you can get all of the White House or the Capitol Building in the background of your shot. Getting these historic and impressive buildings in your photo will help to show of the massive scale of both of these trees. They do draw large crowds, so if you’re committed to getting the perfect shot I recommend visiting late at night or early in the morning. A weekday visit can also offer a reprieve from the biggest crowds.
