Wandering Through Old Town in Ghost Sheets 👻

Every October, Old Town Alexandria transforms into a living Halloween postcard — cobblestone streets draped in spiderwebs, doorsteps stacked with pumpkins, and golden leaves crunching underfoot. As a photographer, I always look forward to capturing this seasonal shift! Last fall, I decided to do something a little different: a ghostly stroll through the historic streets, cameras in hand, spirits high.

Inspired by the vintage-meets-viral ghost photoshoot trend, I gathered a couple willing to model this concept for me. They threw on a couple of twin-size white sheets, added sunglasses, and hit the streets. It was all about the atmosphere, no costume contests here. The crisp fall air, the rich red ivy crawling over old stone, and the friendly smiles from strangers made this impromptu shoot feel like a scene out of a Halloween movie.

Whether you’re here for the aesthetic or hoping to learn some haunted history about the area, Old Town doesn’t disappoint.

Why Old Town Alexandria Is the Perfect Fall Backdrop

• Historic architecture: 18th-century row houses, brick sidewalks, and wrought iron fences give every corner a cinematic look.
  
  
• Natural textures: Fall foliage spills across rooftops and tree-lined streets.
  
  
• Community spirit: Locals go all out with Halloween decor. Think skeletons dressed up as celebrities and massive ten-foot-tall werewolf statues looming over street corners.

We passed several decorated houses that could give Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion a run for its money. And every few blocks, someone waved, laughed, or asked to snap a photo — because who expects a pair of ghosts walking around with a photographer on a Wednesday afternoon?

Where to Walk for the Best Halloween Decor

If you’re planning your own fall stroll or shoot, these streets are a must:

• Captain’s Row (100 block of Prince St.): Cobblestones, lantern-style lighting, and abundant decor make this street an autumn dream.
  
  
• Wolfe Street and S Lee Street: These intersecting paths feel like stepping into a historic novel — especially around dusk.
  
  
• Queen Street: Often overlooked, but full of charming porches and creative Halloween displays.
  
  
• Wilkes Street Tunnel: while not decorated for Halloween, it has some gorgeous and colorful ivy and makes for a nice photo backdrop.

Capture the Season, Not Just a Costume

This shoot was all about channeling a spooky, romantic, playful vibe with a camera. And sometimes that’s all you need to spark creativity. The fun wasn’t in perfection — it was in the wandering, the people we met, and how we got to see familiar streets in an entirely new light.

Whether you’re a photographer, content creator, or just someone who loves fall magic, Old Town Alexandria is the kind of place that lingers in your camera roll long after the season ends.

Want a Little History With Your Haunting?

We also took part in a candle-lit Ghost Tour of Old Town Alexandria earlier that week, and I can’t recommend it enough. Alexandria Colonial Tours blends storytelling, folklore, and history in a way that adds an extra layer of depth to any fall visit. Bonus: the tour guides dress in colonial garb and carry a real oil lamp as they lead you through graveyards and haunted alleys.

FAQs

Can I shoot Old Town Alexandria Halloween photos without a permit?

• Yes, for personal or casual portfolio work, no permit is needed. Be respectful of private property and don’t block sidewalks.

When’s the best time to walk around for Halloween decor?

• Mid to late October. Most homes begin decorating after the first week of the month.

Are ghost costumes like these safe to walk around in?

• Yes, but make sure your sheet has eye holes or that you’re wearing them only during photos, not while walking in traffic.

What camera setup do you recommend for fall photo walks?

• I saw people using everything from cellphones to professional cameras! You can see what gear I use here. Feel free to add some warm-toned or grainy filters to the photos for an added layer of creativity.

Got an idea for a styled shoot?

Reach out to book! I am always up for a unique location, outfit, or creative concept.