With its rose-lined pathways and vine-covered pergolas, the Bon Air Park Rose Garden in Arlington, VA is perfect for couples in search of soft, romantic portraits.

Unlike many gardens in the DMV area, this one doesn’t require a photo permit, despite what their website says (when we called to inquire about purchasing one, we were told we didn’t need one). Oh, and did I mention there’s actually a decent parking lot?

We took these photos on a Tuesday evening in late June, and while the garden wasn’t crowded, there were a few other photoshoots taking place. We didn’t feel boxed out of getting good shots, but I can imagine there’s a lot of competition for empty pergolas on weekends–especially in the spring.

There also aren’t bathrooms or water fountains onsite, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’re traveling a long way to get there.

Nevertheless, the Bon Air Rose Garden is by far one of my favorite places I’ve ever shot engagement photos. The landscaping is so well done that it’s nearly impossible to take a bad picture!