Brainstorming Philadelphia engagement photo locations on top of wedding planning can be a lot. As a Philadelphia wedding photographer with 16 years of experience, I’ve recommended hundreds of engagement spots to clients.
I wanted to create a helpful resource of Philadelphia-area engagement locations that match your aesthetics and energy. I’ll be sharing details around accessibility, affordability, and adding my personal insights (and pop culture references) along the way. If you’re local to the Philly area, hopefully this will help you out. That way you don’t end up on Pinterest at midnight, scrolling through a sea of inspiration pics that don’t feel like they represent you.
There’s No “Right” Way to do This
I like to remind marriers that there aren’t any rules for engagement photos, despite what you may see online. You don’t have to stand in a field at golden hour, wearing an outfit you’re buying just for the session. Especially if part of your daily routine involves allergy meds. You don’t need to dip your partner in the middle of the street if you prefer privacy, with the comfort of your cats at home.
Engagement sessions can be silly, playful, quiet, editorial, moody, or anything else you envision. They can last an hour or two, or whatever your battery can withstand.
Philadelphia-Area Locations That Feel Like You
Location can set the whole tone of a session. I always encourage folks to think less about “what looks good” and more about “what feels like us.”
I also know that having a budget is real—more and more, some of the most striking spots in the region come with permit fees that can run into the hundreds. So here’s an honest, values-aligned breakdown, from permit-free options to when permits might be worth it.
Table of Contents:
Permit-Free Options:
1. 30th Street Station
2. Arcades
3. Bartram’s Garden
4. Beaches
5. Campuses
6. Cira Green
7. Community Gardens
8. Curtis Arboretum
9. French Creek State Park
10. Greenhouses
11. Grounds for Sculpture
12. Lorimer Park
13. Murals
14. New York City
15. Old City/Center City Streets
16. Palmyra Cove
17. Percy Street Project
18. Philadelphia Museum of Art
19. Philadelphia Zoo
20. Rittenhouse Square
21. Schuylkill River Trail
22. University City
23. Washington, D.C.
24. Wissahickon
25. The Woodlands
26. Your Home or Neighborhood
When Permits Are Worth It:
27. Longwood Gardens
28. Morris Arboretum
29. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
Permit-Free Options:
1. 30th Street Station
For those who love architecture, movement, or train travel nostalgia, 30th Street Station gives a cinematic backdrop without needing to wander far. Please tell me I wasn’t the only one with an Amélie avatar on LiveJournal. The massive windows, art deco details, marble floors, and grand columns photograph beautifully year-round. Accessibility is solid with elevators, ramps, seating areas, and nearby transit access. Crowds can be a factor depending on timing, but there are always quiet corners if overstimulated. “The Porch” at 30th Street Station also offers beautiful plantings, colorful furniture, custom swings, and plenty of people-watching.
2. Arcades
An arcade engagement session is perfect for those who want their photos to feel playful instead of performative. If the idea of posing stresses you out, consider playing pinball with your partner, or soaking up the neon glow of blacklight mini golf. Nothing says love like a Skee-Ball competition or breaking out Dance Dance Revolution moves. Candid moments come naturally because you’re too busy playing air hockey or bowling to let yourself get nervous. Accessibility can vary depending on the venue, so be sure to check ahead for details. Barcade, Round1, local retro arcades (like this one at Arnold’s Family Fun Center in Oaks, PA), and boardwalk spots can all create different vibes depending on your preferences.
3. Bartram’s Garden
Bartram’s Garden feels like a breath of fresh air for those of us who hate parallel parking and love uncrowded views of the skyline. There’s a blend of riverside views, tall grasses, gardens, wooded paths, a colorful boat dock, and historic buildings. I’ve photographed dozens of sessions at Bartram’s and each one always has a unique feel. Accessibility varies depending on different areas, but there are paved and flatter pathways available near many of the main grounds. For those who want greenery without saturated crowds, the gardens are always at the top of my list of recommendations. It can also be an aligned space if you’re environmentally-conscious and want your location to reflect your values. Their native plant sales are always a treat. The gardens are open daily from sunrise to sunset and thankfully don’t require a permit.
4. Beaches
The Jersey Shore, Delaware beaches, quaint lakeside spots in Pennsylvania—there are so many ways we could go. These tend to be some of my favorites, and not just because of the obvious sand-between-my-toes-joy. (Also holding space for people whose sensory sensitivities make beaches a living hellscape.) Beaches lend themselves to movement, stimmy textures, windblown hair, bare feet, and less pressure to have to pose. Accessibility varies greatly depending on the specific beach. Some offer beach wheelchairs, mats, and nearby parking (a somewhat rare gem), or quieter access points. We can also avoid peak tourism hours by planning calmer sessions closer to off-season, sunrise, or sunset.
5. Campuses
College campuses, like this one at Saint Joseph’s University, can make for charming engagement session locations, especially if the grounds have personal significance. Whether you met there or you’re just an admirer of libraries or gothic architecture, campuses can be the perfect place to roam. They can offer a mix of greenery, cool brick buildings, covered walkways, and seating areas for breaks (an opportunity for me to be taller than you, which is a rarity). Accessibility can vary by school, but many campuses have ramps, elevators, and paved pathways. Oftentimes this makes for easier navigation than neighborhood parks. There are a ton of options, from Bryn Mawr, Swarthmore, Penn, and Princeton to Temple and Drexel, and many more. They all photograph differently depending on the time of day and the energy you want.
6. Cira Green
Another one of my personal favorites (and pet-friendly to boot), Cira Green gives skyline views without needing a swanky budget. The free elevated park space overlooks the city with modern architecture, open lawns, and sunset light that makes my face hurt from smiling. The terrain is mostly flat and paved, making it one of the more mobility-friendly skyline options. Wheelchair accessible elevators are located within Cira Centre South Garage. It can get crowded during events or evenings with nice weather, but we can always work around other people. This is great for folks who want a modern city feel without wanting to navigate busy Center City sidewalks. Hours vary and are listed on their website.
7. Community Gardens
Community gardens can feel intimate, especially if they’re tied to a connection in a nostalgic spot or neighborhood. They can offer color, layers, and imperfections rooted in care. Whether in South Philly like the one above or in the burbs (Ambler Community Garden is a beaut), community garden sessions can be some of my favorites. Some gardens require permission while others are public-facing, so I recommend checking in to confirm beforehand. Accessibility can be tricky and varies depending on pathways and terrain. Small spaces like these often allow us to move at a slower pace, which can be nice if you don’t have the capacity to browse a large flower farm like Maple Acres Farm Market (another fave!) but want similar vibes.
8. Curtis Arboretum
This is genuinely one of my favorite underused gems in the area. I know I’m saying that a lot about these locations, but it’s true. The grounds of Curtis Arboretum are lush and varied. Open meadows, imperfect paths, and tucked-away benches in Wyncote. It’s quiet without being overly remote, visually stunning without being overwhelming, and the parking and terrain are manageable for many mobility needs. It doesn’t have the same name recognition as Longwood or Morris, which honestly can make it better for photos—fewer crowds, more space to breathe. Plus there’s a dog park next to a stream, which combines two of my ideal elements: water and energetic pups.
9. French Creek State Park
If you want your engagement photos to feel woodsy and expansive without driving deep into the mountains, French Creek is a solid option about an hour away. There are forests, lakes, wetlands, open fields, and campgrounds perfect for marriers who want to toast s’mores overnight. Accessibility depends on the trail chosen, with some areas being flatter and easier to access and other areas being more rugged. This can be especially nice for folks who like to hike together, birdwatch, and camp. Finding ways to parallel play in nature together can sometimes make sessions feel more fluid, with less pressure to pose or perform. ADA accessible campsites are available, from cottages and cabins to pavilions and yurts.
10. Greenhouses
Greenhouses like the one above at Bountiful Gardens in Ewing Township, New Jersey, are an excellent option for winter engagement sessions. They’re also great for those who want plant-filled photos without battling inclement weather. The humidity, diffused light, and layered greenery create a cozy backdrop that photographs beautifully year-round. Accessibility can depend on the specific greenhouse. Many have paved indoor paths and seating areas. Greenhouses are often warmer and have less wind than outdoor locations, which can be impactful for those with chronic pain, temperature sensitivity, or sensory needs during longer sessions. Marriers can book a session at Bountiful Gardens on their website, starting at $40/hour.
11. Grounds for Sculpture
If you’ve ever driven around Hamilton, New Jersey, chances are you’ve seen the towering statues greeting guests at Grounds for Sculpture. The venue blends art museum energy with outdoor gardens in a way that feels like it dripped out of a Dali painting. Upon parking, expect a warm hello from peacocks honking like they’re auditioning for a role in The Traitors. There are sculptures tucked between trees, winding paths, and ever-changing exhibits that impressively span 42-acres. While my ability to read a map is often tested there, it remains one of my favorite engagement photos locations. The main path is accessible and made up of paver stone, with access mobile tours also offered. The Gardens can have smaller paths of a natural material (gravel, sand, or a mix), that may be uneven, narrow, or harder to maneuver. Admission fees vary, with adult pricing generally around $25/pp. ACCESS Card holders and those who are part of the Families First Discovery Pass program are offered reduced rates. Consider checking your local library to see if they have free visitor passes. Professional photography requires advanced approval.
12. Lorimer Park
If you’re local to the Abington area, Lorimer Park has a quiet, tucked-away energy compared to some of the city’s busier attractions. Wooden bridges, creek access perfect for skipping stones, and trails with softer traffic (and sometimes horseback riding) make it feel peaceful without being totally isolated. Terrain can vary depending on location, with flatter areas along the creek. As part of the Pennypack Trail, there’s a 1.8-mile flat path with crushed stone, suitable for wheelchair users and strollers. The most accessible entrance is near the Ranger Station, with ADA facilities available near the main picnic grounds. Whether you’re rock climbers or new parents, this park is a lovely spot to create some core memories together.
13. Murals
There’s a reason Philadelphia has been coined the “Mural Capital of the World,” with over 4,000 murals created in the city by Mural Arts Philadelphia alone. Murals can make an engagement session feel vibrant, political, joyful, nostalgic, or so many other meaningful emotions. Community-rooted artwork can range from bold and graphic to sentimental and subdued. If you’re looking for color and personality without wanting a park setting, murals can be a great choice. Accessibility depends on the location, but mural sessions can often be customized around mobility needs, energy levels, and transit access. Mural Arts Philadelphia even has an interactive map that makes it easy to intentionally seek out artwork that reflects your identities or aesthetics.
14. New York City
For some of us, NYC is just a short drive or train ride away, which makes New York City engagement photos a potential option as well. I photographed the session above at The Metropolitan Museum of Art when our High Line plans got rained out. Engagement sessions are no longer permitted inside of the Museum, but there are endless options if you want to make a day trip out of it. There’s Chelsea Market for cinematic photos in motion. Or Jane’s Carousel in the DUMBO area of Brooklyn Bridge Park, with its gorgeous glass pavilion and spanning views. For even more skyline, The High Line can be an option where greenery is woven throughout, Plus the colossal sculpture of a pigeon, which for some quirky souls, may scream romance. Accessibility varies dramatically by neighborhood and subway access. If you thrive in movement, people-watching, bookstores, and organized chaos, New York can feel incredibly at home and alive in photos.
15. Old City/Center City Streets
For couples who are urban at heart, a roaming city session through Old City, the Gayborhood, Fishtown, or Kensington murals can feel more genuine than any park. Cobblestones, murals, storefronts, late-afternoon light, and honks from surprisingly pleasant Philadelphians—what more could you need. And if there’s a specific block, shop, library, or restaurant that means something to you, we can build around that. Accessibility can vary based on neighborhood, but that’s something we can talk through as we brainstorm.
16. Palmyra Cove
If you’re traveling from Philadelphia, just over the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge rests the surprising Palmyra Cove. It has marsh views, wooded trails, rustic boardwalks, river access, and skyline views without the crowds. There are several flat walking paths and observation areas that can work well for many mobility needs, though other trails are more uneven. The lighting near sunset is stunning along the water, with sandy shorelines and views of the bridge. Driftwood provides unique seating on the beach-y areas if you aren’t afraid to immerse yourself in nature. If you want something convenient to the city with a cove-like feel, this could be the choice for you.
17. Percy Street Project
Percy Street Project offers an intimate, mural-packed alleyway tucked in (you guessed it) Percy Street in Philadelphia. The public art installation spotlights changing murals, with a finale of contoured LED lights alongside immersive artwork that spans to the sidewalks. Accessibility is fairly manageable along the street, although nearby sidewalks can be uneven in places. The quiet alley neighbors Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks if you’re a meat-lover who finds yourself wanting to decide the best cheesesteak with your partner.
18. Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is popular for photo sessions for a reason. There’s dramatic architecture, skyline views, wide open spaces, and an abundance of people-watching. For those who don’t have the desire to run up the Rocky steps, the outskirts of the Museum are still beautiful to explore. The stretch of grounds behind the Museum are also enough to entertain us during an entire session. There’s the Azalea Gardens, Fairmount Water Works, sculpture gardens, and the journey to Boathouse Row along Kelly Drive. Accessibility is decent around the Museum grounds, with paved pathways and ramps, though some areas involve stairs or hills. It’s a good fit for folks who want a classic Philly feel with different elements of character basked in the surroundings. It is a bit confusing whether or not a permit is required for engagement photography outside of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. More information about their wedding photo permits can be found here. Generally, most of us are able to photograph without being approached, but it is a risk without reaching out for a permit.
19. Philadelphia Zoo
For animal lovers, the Philadelphia Zoo can make engagement photos feel playful and personal. There’s bright colors, movement, gardens, and fun experiences like feeding birds at Wings of the Worlds. I’ve photographed many sessions at the Zoo and each one has its own candid, memorable feel. For those who are members, The Treehouse located near the carousel is one of my favorite spots for photos. And it’s indoors if you need a break from rain or want to soak up some AC. General admission is required, and photography policies generally state you need permission for commercial purposes (contact: webkeeper@phillyzoo.org). Accessibility throughout the Zoo is generally strong, with paved paths, wheelchair rentals, seating, and KultureCity sensory bags available at the Membership Booth. The Zoo has a mobility-friendly map here and you can visit the KultureCity App to view the Zoo’s social story (helpful for all ages). The Zoo also partners with Art-Reach’s ACCESS card program.
20. Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square works beautifully for those who want greenery and city energy at the same time. There’s always movement happening nearby, whether it’s dogs passing through, musicians performing, people reading on benches, or the bustle of nearby storefronts. Sessions here can often feel alive without needing extensive posing. The park itself is relatively accessible, with paved walkways and nearby seating. Surrounding sidewalks can get a bit crowded during peak hours, so it’s standard to have some blurred passersby in the background. Pairing this location with nearby brownstones, outdoor dining at Parc, or an ice cream stop can offer a cozy reprieve.
21. Schuylkill River Trail
The Schuylkill River Trail offers one of the easiest ways to combine skyline views, water, greenery, and movement all in one place. Boardwalk sections, bridges, biking paths, murals, and river reflections make it visually versatile without needing a massive amount of walking. The Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk is a 2,000-foot-long concrete pathway stretching along the shoreline from Locust to the South Street Bridge. The pathway connects to the South Street Bridge via a ramp that provides ADA-complaint access to the Schuylkill River Trail. Accessibility is pretty good along the paved sections, especially near Center City access points. Sunset here can be lovely, as locals ride their bikes and stop for breaks to greet friendly pups. It can get busy on the weekends, so consider visiting during a slower time of day like morning or sunset to avoid the crowds.
22. University City
University City has a bit of everything: cool architecture, ivy-covered buildings, quiet courtyards, busy soccer fields, bookstores, and cafés. It can be a nice choice for those who want variety without driving between multiple locations. Accessibility tends to be strong due to the campus infrastructure, with ramps, paved walkways, and public transit access throughout much of the area. Sessions at University City can lean academic, artsy, or like a cute date night out depending on the route we build together. Penn Park’s Weave Bridge, photographed above, is an accessible connection that crosses over the rail lines and offers geometric compositions that complement the skyline beautifully.
23. Washington, D.C.
DC has such a wide range of engagement session possibilities. The couple above was photographed at home with their dog before we walked to Meridian Hill Park, which has gorgeous stone architecture, cascading fountains, and tree-lined paths. It felt like the type of cinematic backdrop you’d see in a romcom. Accessibility varies throughout the park due to stairs and elevation changes. There are flatter routes available around portions of the grounds. DC is especially suitable for folks who love museums, politics, public transit, history, or just want to get out of Philadelphia to have a staycation of sorts. Whether you’re looking for photos with cherry blossoms or historic memorials, there are so many possibilities to explore.
24. Wissahickon
The trails near Forbidden Drive are some of Philadelphia’s greatest. There’s a reason shows like Task and Mare of Easttown use the Wiss as cinematic backdrops for their storytelling. Miles of trail along the creek, mostly flat and accessible, are surrounded by saturated old growth forest. Seasonal variety is incredible—wildflowers in spring, golds in the fall. If your relationship involves nature walks with your pups or partner (or both), this could be a major consideration. The couple above sweetly played catch outside of the Monastery Stables after a hike around Wissahickon Valley Park.
25. The Woodlands
West Philly’s The Woodlands is one of my all-time favorite engagement session locations. I love the way the seasonality changes the tone of the space. It becomes its own character in a way that always energizes me. The historic cemetery landscape is peaceful, reflective, and full of towering trees, stone pathways, and seasonal color. Plus, so many critter sightings. I greatly admire all of the social justice-driven work they do, including their thoughtful Grave Gardeners program. The Woodlands tends to be quieter than larger parks, which can help if crowds or overstimulation are difficult. Accessibility varies by section, but many of the main paths are relatively wide and manageable. If you’re drawn to history, gothic aesthetics, birdwatching, or easy parking (it’s me, I hate parking), this place has a special place in my heart. The Woodlands, along with some of these other locations, can also be found in my Guide to Accessibility in Philadelphia Wedding Venues.
26. Your Home or Neighborhood
For a “day in the life” style session, we could start at your place, maybe you make coffee or show me your collections and info-dump about your special interests. We can move through your little corner of the world at a relaxed pace. These are especially wonderful for folks who feel stiff in front of cameras, because there’s something to do rather than a pose to perform. They’re also inherently accessible, sensory-friendly on your own terms, and genuinely personal. You can go get ice cream, thrift, hit up a winery, or bowl a strike. The options are pretty endless. I love meeting your pets almost as much as I love meeting you.
When Permits Are Worth It
27. Longwood Gardens
Longwood is inarguably breathtaking. The conservatories, fountains, formal gardens, and seasonal displays always bring my family back to visit every year. Accessibility throughout much of the gardens is excellent, with paved pathways, seating, shuttles, and indoor, climate-controlled areas available. Longwood has a photo policy breakdown on their website, but some takeaways worth considering are that: sessions must be scheduled at least 4 weeks in advance using their photo request form; sessions are offered at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm; photography is permitted in outdoor gardens only (the photo above was taken prior to that policy change); all sessions must be accompanied by a Longwood staff member; can only use 1-2 outdoor “zones” of your choice, which are selected when booking. Photographers must also provide a Certificate of Insurance when submitting the request form.
28. Morris Arboretum
I have a Morris Arboretum membership and I absolutely love visiting with my fam. There’s something about the smell of The Fernery as it fogs up my glasses. The laughter in the nets of the towering trees in their Out on a Limb Installation. It is yet to be determined if I will miss the side-eyeing swans that have vacated for safer grounds. That being said, the permit fees can be significant and they’re not necessary to have a beautiful session. If you’re interested in engagement photos at Morris Arboretum, rates currently start at $275/hour. More information can be found on their rentals page here. To obtain a photo pass, you can email rentals@morrisarboretum.org or call (215) 247-5777 x 158.
29. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
I’ve photographed dozens of sessions at the Magic Gardens and can confirm that the space is genuinely unlike anything else. The mosaic environment is immersive and unique. It’s a layered labyrinth of recycled art that photographs beautifully and feels meaningful. Accessibility inside the museum is somewhat limited for wheelchair users and others who need stair-free access. Much of the indoor galleries and parts of the outdoor sculpture garden are accessible. Their main gate (located along South Street between 11th and 10th) is a stair-free entrance to the museum. If the gate isn’t open, the front desk can let you in when called at (215) 733-0390 x 119. The space requires some navigation on foot, so it’s worth contacting them in advance if mobility or sensory needs are a consideration. More accessibility information can be found here. If you’re interested in a colorful, maximalist-style session, you don’t need to make special reservations in advance, but you do need to pay the general admission fee per person. For $75/half hour, the space can also be booked outside of visitor hours for added privacy, but must occur between 9-11am on Mondays and Thursdays.
Reach Out to Inquire!
Whether you’re drawn to skyline views, secret gardens, murals, or the comfort of your own living room, the best engagement session location is the one where you feel most at home. Especially if you are feeling anxious about being in front of a camera. I’ll help you think through what makes the most sense given your energy levels, mobility needs, and vision for the day. This post is meant to stir up some ideas, so if none of these feel right, we can start with a blank slate.
I’m Shannon, a Philadelphia-area wedding and engagement photographer with 16 years of experience. I’d love to help you figure out where and how to celebrate this exciting milestone in your life. Reach out here and we can start to talk things through.
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