Favorite Photo Locations in PA and NJ: Peace Valley Park, Historic Mansions, and Quaint Villages
The picturesque landscapes and charming locales of Pennsylvania and New Jersey provide an array of stunning backdrops for any photoshoot. Whether you're looking for natural beauty, historic elegance, or quaint charm, these locations offer diverse settings to capture memorable moments. Here are some of my favorite photo locations in PA and NJ, including huge parks, a few historic mansions, and even some quaint villages.
Peace Valley Park, Perkasie, PA
My all time favorite haunt. I am always surprised to find new spots along these walking trails. From forest to meadow to lake….PVP has it all. Sunrises are the prettiest on the New Galena Rd. side of the lake while the sunsets are the most beautiful along Creek Rd. It is a beautiful place to shoot in every season.
The Highland Mansion, Fort Washington, PA
I LOVE when I get to shoot at the Highland Mansion and gardens. While technically a historic site and park, you can pay a permit fee to shoot within the mansion or the formal garden. Surrounded by massive stone walls, the site features nine smaller buildings, my favorite being the greenhouse.
Peddler’s Village, Lahaska PA
This storybook village with charming colonial-style buildings, gardens, shops, annual festivals and seasonal events is a very cute spot for photos. You do not need to a permit to photograph here, but you must be respectful of other shoppers and visitors. The few times I’ve photographed in the shops, I’ve always asked for permission first.
Graeme Park, Horsham PA
This is another historic site that is perfect for portrait sessions. Last I heard, you do need a permit to shoot here and I do not recommend visiting on popular weekends as they also host weddings. Weekday evenings appear to be the best time.
The Old Mill, Rose Valley, PA
While known for being a stunning wedding venue, The Old Mill is technically part of a park and you can take photos in the beautiful meadow as well as the courtyard as long as no event is going on.
Smithville Mansion, Smithville, NJ
Apparently I have a thing for historic villages. Another beautiful spot is not too far from Cherry Hill, NJ. Smithville Mansion is a beautiful example of 1840 Greek Revival architecture and is surrounded by smaller buildings that make unique backdrops.
Valley Forge National Park, Valley Forge PA
This park is massive and has so many cool spots. My personal faves include Washington Memorial Chapel as well as the Knox Trail.
Pennsylvania and New Jersey offer a wealth of beautiful and diverse locations perfect for any photoshoot.
Whether you're drawn to the natural beauty of Peace Valley Park, the historic elegance of Fonthill Castle and Drumthwacket, or the quaint charm of New Hope and Lambertville, these spots will help you capture stunning and memorable images.
For more photography tips and to book your session, visit Delaney Dobson Photography.
