I love it when couples reach out to schedule an outdoor engagement session, and living on the East Coast, we are so lucky to have some truly stunning locations right at our fingertips. From lush gardens and historic landmarks to dramatic waterfalls and sweeping bay views, Maryland has something for every couple’s style. Here are 10 of my favorite spots – very close to DC – to capture your love story outdoors.
Brookside Gardens
Right here in my backyard in Silver Spring, Brookside Gardens is one of the most beautiful and versatile engagement session locations in all of Montgomery County. This award-winning 50-acre public display garden sits within Wheaton Regional Park and includes several distinct areas, an Aquatic Garden, Azalea Garden, Butterfly Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese Style Garden, and a Woodland Walk, among others. No matter the season, there is always something in bloom and always a new corner to explore. Note that a paid photo permit is required for engagement sessions, so be sure to plan ahead and book your slot in advance, they do sell out!
Sligo Creek Trail
For couples who want something a little more natural and tucked away, Sligo Creek Trail is a hidden gem right in Silver Spring. Surrounded by woods and filled with trails, Sligo Creek Park is a wonderful escape filled with beautiful foliage, and hikers often report seeing various birds and other wildlife. The trail offers gorgeous trees, boulders, bridges, and the creek itself, perfect for couples seeking a serene and peaceful environment.
Glenstone Museum
Tucked away in Potomac, just 20 minutes from Silver Spring, Glenstone is one of the most unique and visually stunning engagement session locations in the DMV. Spanning 230 acres, the museum seamlessly weaves together art, architecture, and nature into a serene, contemplative landscape with minimalist buildings, a peaceful water garden, monumental outdoor sculptures, and winding trails through lush greenery. The result is a backdrop that feels effortlessly editorial and completely one of a kind. Admission is always free, though timed entry tickets are required, so plan ahead before your session. Photography is welcomed throughout the outdoor grounds, making it perfect for couples who want something a little more artistic and unexpected.
Sugarloaf Mountain
A registered national landmark, Sugarloaf Mountain is known for its sweeping overlook views of the Maryland countryside. Just about 40 minutes from Silver Spring, it’s an accessible escape with big payoffs. Wildlife is often spotted along the trails, and the nearby Strong Mansion adds an elegant, estate-like option if you’re also considering it as a wedding venue.
Great Falls
Great Falls ranks among the most spectacular natural destinations in the entire DC/Maryland region and stands as one of my personal favorites. It sits only about 20 minutes from Silver Spring. Dozens of trails, dramatic gorge views, and the iconic rushing falls create endless photo opportunities. I recommend scheduling your session on a weekday to enjoy the park at its quietest. (For more outdoor engagement photo locations in Northern Virginia, check out my blog post here.)
Woodlawn Manor
Woodlawn Manor is an 1800s Georgian style manor house in Sandy Spring, MD. The gorgeous grounds include rolling green pastures, beautiful gardens, a gazebo, and a historic stone barn. Couples who love a timeless countryside feel will find it here. It sits only about 30 minutes from Silver Spring. The variety of settings means you can move from romantic garden portraits to rustic barn backdrops all in one session.
Black Hill Regional Park
Black Hill Regional Park covers 2,000 acres surrounding the picturesque Little Seneca Lake. Trails wind through oak and hickory forests, offering spectacular views throughout. The park sits in Boyds, MD, about 35 minutes from Silver Spring. Couples who love wide open water views and lush natural surroundings will feel right at home here.
Cunningham Falls State Park
Cunningham Falls State Park splits into two distinct sections and packs a lot of beauty into one visit. A cascading waterfall, a peaceful lake, a picturesque bridge, and miles of hiking trails all offer different settings for your session. Couples who love variety will feel spoiled here.
Sherwood Gardens
Sherwood Gardens bursts into color every spring with thousands of tulips from April through May. Few locations rival it for sheer romance and beauty during peak bloom. Couples who love lush, colorful backdrops will feel right at home strolling through the grounds. It makes for both a stunning photo session and a perfect date.
Chesapeake Bay
The Chesapeake Bay stands as one of Maryland’s most iconic landmarks. It offers stunning waterfront views that are truly hard to match. As the largest estuary in the United States, it gives couples countless spots to explore. Choose from quiet beaches to dramatic shorelines for a gorgeous water backdrop.
Ready to book your outdoor engagement session? Head over to my contact page to get started. I’d love to capture this chapter of your story.
