Looking to up your Instagram game? Here are my 7 favourite places – some obvious spots and some hidden gems – where you can snap that picture-perfect photo in DC.

1. Lincoln Memorial

No matter how many times you’ve visited D.C. you’ll never get sick of taking selfies with Abe. From the steps of this iconic monument, you can enjoy seeing the city from a whole lot of different vantage points.

Insider tip: Try and get here for sunrise and catch the perfect lighting for your photo while you watch the sun come up over the city.

2. Georgetown

As Washington D.C.’s oldest neighbourhood, Georgetown is full of historic architecture, including the signature multi-coloured row houses that line its streets. Mix that with cobblestone streets, quaint sidewalk cafes and the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal and you’ll be spoilt for choice for where to take your picture.

3. Ben’s Chilli Bowl

Ben’s Chili Bowl has been a DC staple since it opened on U Street in 1958. The half-smoke toting restaurant’s storefront is plenty Instagrammable on its own, but the famous Ben’s Chili Bowl mural – featuring distinguished African American trailblazers and celebrities – is iconic. The colourful wall honours the likes of Barack and Michelle Obama and Prince.

4. The Capitol Building

The Capital Building is one of the most iconic views in Washington, and no matter the weather or time of year, this place is incredibly stunning. It’s round, layered dome atop the pristine white columned building sticks up, high above the other buildings surrounding it.

5. The Blind Whino

This 19th century church and current home to the Blind Whino, a nonprofit arts club, in the Southwest Waterfront neighbourhood is sure to catch your attention. It’s also a popular events space and the inside is just as eclectic.

6. Food Trucks

You’ll never go hungry on the streets of Washington. Over the past few years, there’s been an amazing explosion of new food trucks in the District. Most of these trucks frequent the downtown area. Snap a picture of all the trucks in line with the city in the background, and of course, it would be rude not to have a try of some of the tasty treats.

7. The Friendship Archway in Chinatown

The 60-foot-tall, intricate archway is a classic Instagram spot and overlooks one of the busiest junctions in Chinatown at 7th and H Street NW. The Friendship Archway, which was constructed in 1982, features 7,000 tiles and 272 painted dragons.