Best Places for Outdoor Family Photos in Bethesda, Maryland
Annual family photos are one of the best ways to preserve your family’s memories. Thankfully, here on the East Coast, we are surrounded by some amazing places to take outdoor family photos! Keep reading for my top locations near Bethesda, Maryland.
Where to Take Outdoor Family Photos in Bethesda
McCrillis Gardens
I’m a big fan of gardens, parks, and conservatory locations for family photos not just because of the beautiful nature they contain, but because they tend to be great places to spread out and run around together as a family. Located in a residential neighborhood, McCrillis Gardens is a 5-acre naturalistic garden that provides shady walking trails and an abundance of flowers sure to make your family photos come alive with color. This park provides free admission and is especially beautiful during the spring months, so definitely keep this location in mind when planning your spring family photos.
Glen Echo Park & Aquarium
If you are looking for a hands-on activity for your family photos, then you should definitely check out Glen Echo Park Aquarium. This family-friendly museum focuses on promoting awareness of the Chesapeake Bay wildlife and the conservation of its watershed. Visitors will get to interact with the different species of live sea creatures while learning how to take care of the amazing estuary located off the coast of Maryland!
Dumbarton Oaks
For outdoor family photos with an old-world architecture flair, Dumbarton Oaks is definitely the place! These gardens were once the residence of a wealthy U.S. diplomat and they have now been turned into a museum and research library. While the interior is reserved for research, lectures, and concerts the exterior is filled with plentiful gardens. There are many areas to explore from a greenhouse to a grassy terrace, to rose gardens to fountains. Admission to the gardens requires advance tickets from the months of March - October, but for those planning a visit during the winter months, admission is free.
Brookside Gardens
Words can’t really describe how truly peaceful and idyllic Brookside Gardens are. This 50-acre oasis is filled with conservatories, water elements, flowers, and fruit trees. If you’re planning a visit during the winter months a fun family-friendly event is The Garden of Lights in which the gardens transform into a magical winter wonderland. There is no charge to visit the gardens (with the exception of special events), making this a top pick for outdoor family photos in Maryland.
Bethesda Outdoor Movie
Who doesn’t enjoy going to the outdoor movies on a warm summer night? Bethesda Outdoor Movie is a great place to grab some picnic blankets and popcorn and have some family fun enjoying your favorite movie on the city lawn. This annual event usually takes place in July, so while it’s not available year-round, it’s the perfect summer activity!
Whether you’re looking for a casual stroll through a park or a fun family-friendly activity, there are so many options to choose from for outdoor family photos in Maryland. For more location ideas check out my blog post below or, if you’re ready to book your family session, head over to my contact page to get started!