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10 of the Most Instagram-Worthy Spots in Washington, DC

By: Shahrzad Rasekh By: Shahrzad Rasekh | September 14, 2021 | Lifestyle

a woman poses in front of the D.C. Culture House

A woman poses in front of the Culture House

Washington, D.C. has so much to offer beyond politics. From its free museums to its innumerable parks and vibrant brunch scene, the city offers endless activities.

Tourists and residents alike can soak in the city and capture their experiences at these 10 most Instagram-worthy spots.

See also: 10 Most Exciting New Restaurants In The DC Area

Washington National Cathedral

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A post shared by ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Drika Miano (@drikamiano)

3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW / Website

While a cathedral might seem like an odd choice for an Instagram post, rest assured this is no ordinary church. Sitting on 301 acres of well-manicured gardens, this Neo-Gothic church features impressive details including 112 gargoyles, 215 stained glass windows and cast bronze gates. Wander to the right of the church past the stone wall into Bishop’s Garden to enjoy the roses and a side view of the cathedral.

National Arboretum

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A post shared by FONA (@fonarboretum)

3501 New York Ave. NE / Website

Featuring lush gardens, the National Arboretum is perfect for outdoor photos. Beyond the flowers, the National Capitol Columns provide an impressive backdrop. These Corinthian columns, originally built for the East Portico in the Capitol Building in 1928, rest perfectly in proportion within the 20-acre Ellipse Meadow.

The Line DC

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A post shared by The LINE Hotel (@thelinehotel)

2468 Champlain St. NW / Website

Located inside a 110-year-old church in vibrant Adams Morgan, the Line Hotel features a plethora of photo-worthy spots. An oversized, slanted mirror resting in the interior stairway provides an eclectic background, and the No Goodbyes restaurant—which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner—is located in the former nave.

National Mall

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900 Ohio Dr. SW / Website

Contrary to what its name might suggest, the National Mall is not a shopping mall but rather a strip connecting many of the (free!) Smithsonian museums. The Lincoln Monument and the National Monument bookend the strip, along which you can find The National Gallery of Art and the Moongate Garden, among many others. The whole area is perfect for historical portraits and patriotic pics!

Tidal Basin

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A post shared by California ♥ Melissa - Travel (@helloomelissa)

1500 Maine Ave. SW / Website

Built in the late 19th century, the Tidal Basin is located between the Potomac River and the Washington Channel. Mostly known as the best spot to admire the cherry blossoms in the springtime, it’s also a great place to admire sunsets. Golden hour, anyone?

See also: The 5 Best Salons in DC

Urban Roast

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916 G St. NW Suite C-1 / Website

Every aspect of this cafe and cocktail bar is instagrammable. From the neon sign to the decadent two to three person brunch boards, this Chinatown establishment is an influencer’s dream.

Culture House

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700 Delaware Ave. SW / Website

Located in Southwest DC, this gallery is “founded on the principle that art is a catalyst for change in the community.” Open for three hours on Saturday afternoons, the gallery constantly features new exhibitions. If you can’t make the tight time slot for the gallery, don’t fret! The exterior is the main attraction for the ‘gram, as every inch of the building is covered in colorful murals.

Top of the Gate

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2650 Virginia Ave. NW / Website

This award-winning rooftop bar is noteworthy for its incredible views of the Potomac, Georgetown and even the Washington Monument. Located on top of the historic Watergate hotel, you can enjoy well-crafted cocktails, a lively ambiance, and 360 degrees of beautiful backgrounds.

Meridian Hill Park

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16th St. NW &, W St. NW / Website

One of D.C.’s better kept secrets, this 12-acre park locally known as “Malcolm X Park” will make you forget you’re in a city. Built between 1912 and 1940, this park boasts impressive features including a 13-basin waterfall fountain and numerous statues.

El Techo

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606 Florida Ave. NW / Website

With its rattan lanterns, hanging wisteria and extensive cocktail menu, this adult treehouse is a true rooftop oasis. Enjoy a Mexican-inspired brunch or take over the dance floor at night with their mainly house and tech DJ sets!



Tags: photography instagram web-og Shahrzad Rasekh

Photography by: Sara Cottle / Unsplash