If you’ve been following the blog this year, you’ll know that I made a resolution to visit at least one new “touristy” place each quarter. See, being a Washington, DC wedding photographer, you get to see quite a bit of this amazing city – but unfortunately, much of it is from the car as you’re driving from location to location. Sure, I’ve seen some gorgeous venues and shot at some of the most iconic monuments, but I miss out one some of the really interesting hidden gems. So far I’ve been doing great! I checked our the Wonder exhibit at the Renwick Gallery this winter, spent springtime at the White House’s Kitchen Garden, and now this summer I made a trip to Hillwood Estate & Gardens! 

Hillwood is the former home of Marjorie Merriweather Post, the former owner of Post cereal by the young age of just 27, who, at one point in time, was the wealthiest woman in the world.  After her death, she bequeathed this property to her own Foundation to ensure it would be properly maintained to be enjoyed by visitors. The home itself is filled with some pretty incredible works of art, including many Faberge eggs. But the outside of this mansion is really what drew me in – endless acres of greenery, colorful flowers, and soothing water features await you out back. My favorite was the French Parterre, a formal garden just outside the home that is accented with a wall of ivy and a stunning crystal clear pool. And Rob and I were both in awe when we entered the greenhouse that appeared to have a unique flower coming at us from every angle. Everywhere we turned, there was something of beauty to be seen. Though this spot is a bit more off the beaten path of typical DC sites, I highly recommend it for a short, but amazing visit!