Dulles, Virginia is a charming town located in Loudoun County, just 26 miles outside of Washington D. C. Known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes, Dulles is a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike. Whether you're a professional photographer or just looking to capture some stunning shots for your Instagram feed, Dulles has plenty of tourist spots that will leave you in awe.
The National Air and Space Museum Steven F.
Udvar-Hazy CenterIf you're a fan of aviation and space exploration, then the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is a must-visit tourist spot in Dulles. This museum is an extension of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington D. and houses an impressive collection of aircrafts and spacecrafts. From the iconic Space Shuttle Discovery to the Enola Gay, the plane that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima during World War II, there are plenty of opportunities to capture some unique and historic photos at this museum.
The museum also has a variety of interactive exhibits and simulators that make for great photo opportunities.
Dulles International Airport
As one of the busiest airports in the United States, Dulles International Airport may not seem like an obvious choice for tourist spot photography. However, this airport is known for its unique architecture and design, making it a popular spot for photographers. The main terminal of the airport features a stunning glass-enclosed mobile lounge that offers panoramic views of the airfield. This is a great spot to capture photos of planes taking off and landing, as well as the beautiful sunset and sunrise views. You can also take a ride on the mobile lounge for a different perspective and some great photo opportunities.The Steven F.
Udvar-Hazy Center Observation TowerLocated next to the National Air and Space Museum, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center Observation Tower offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. This 164-foot tall tower has an open-air observation deck that provides a 360-degree view of Dulles and the nearby mountains. From this vantage point, you can capture stunning photos of the airport, the museum, and the surrounding landscape. The observation tower is also a popular spot for plane spotters, so you may even get the chance to capture some rare aircrafts in your photos.
The Dulles Town Center
If you're looking for some urban photography opportunities, then head to the Dulles Town Center.This shopping mall is not only a great place to shop and dine, but it also offers some unique photo spots. The mall's outdoor plaza features a beautiful fountain that is lit up at night, making for some stunning long exposure shots. You can also capture photos of the colorful murals and sculptures scattered throughout the mall.
The Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park
For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park is a must-visit tourist spot in Dulles. This 45-mile long park offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and photography. The park's most popular feature is the 100-foot tall trestle bridge that spans across Goose Creek. This bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for photographers.You can also capture photos of the park's scenic trails, historic train stations, and charming towns along the way.
The Oatlands Historic House and Gardens
For a taste of history and some beautiful photo opportunities, visit the Oatlands Historic House and Gardens in Dulles. This 19th-century mansion is surrounded by 400 acres of gardens, fields, and woodlands, making it a picturesque location for photography. The mansion itself is a stunning example of Federal-style architecture and offers plenty of photo opportunities both inside and out. The gardens are also a popular spot for photographers, with their colorful flowers, fountains, and sculptures.The Algonkian Regional Park
Located along the Potomac River, the Algonkian Regional Park is a popular spot for outdoor activities and photography. The park offers stunning views of the river and has plenty of trails for hiking and biking. The park's most popular feature is the 18-hole golf course, which offers some unique photo opportunities with its rolling hills and scenic views.You can also capture photos of the park's wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various bird species.
The Claude Moore Park
For a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the Claude Moore Park in Dulles. This 357-acre park offers a variety of natural habitats, including forests, meadows, wetlands, and ponds. The park's most popular feature is the historic Lanesville Ordinary, a restored 18th-century tavern that offers a glimpse into life during colonial times. You can also capture photos of the park's scenic trails, picnic areas, and wildlife.The Washington & Old Dominion Trail Overpass
For a unique perspective of Dulles, head to the Washington & Old Dominion Trail Overpass. This overpass offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the airport, the town, and the nearby mountains. The overpass is also a popular spot for plane spotters, as it offers a clear view of the airport's runways.You can capture some amazing photos of planes taking off and landing with the town in the background.
