The Exorcist Steps

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Description

The Exorcist Steps in Washington, DC, are one of those places that somehow blend Hollywood legend with real-world grit. They’re steep, narrow, and tucked away in Georgetown, descending sharply from Prospect Street down toward M Street. If you’ve ever seen the 1973 horror classic “The Exorcist,” you’ll recognize them instantly — those 97 concrete steps where Father Karras met his dramatic fate. But standing there in person, you realize it’s not just about the movie. It’s the atmosphere — the mix of eerie quiet and city hum that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a scene frozen in time.

I remember the first time I visited. It was late afternoon, and the light hit the stone just right, casting these long shadows that made the whole place look cinematic. A couple of tourists were taking photos halfway down, and a jogger zipped past us like it was no big deal. That’s the funny thing about the Exorcist Steps — they’re both a film landmark and an everyday shortcut for locals. You’ll see students, runners, and movie buffs all sharing the same space, each experiencing it in their own way.

There’s also something oddly peaceful about the spot, despite its spooky reputation. The stairs are framed by brick walls on both sides, and ivy creeps over the edges, softening the hard lines. It’s easy to imagine a film crew setting up here back in the day, but it’s just as easy to forget all that and appreciate the craftsmanship of old Georgetown architecture. The steps have become a kind of pilgrimage site for horror fans, sure, but they’ve also become part of the city’s heartbeat — a small, gritty reminder that history and pop culture often collide in the most unexpected corners.

Key Features

• Iconic filming location from the 1973 movie “The Exorcist.”
• Comprises 97 steep concrete steps connecting Prospect Street and M Street in Georgetown.
• Designated as a historical landmark due to its cultural significance.
• Offers a unique photo opportunity for film enthusiasts and urban explorers alike.
• Surrounded by classic Georgetown architecture and scenic urban views.
• Not wheelchair accessible due to the steep incline and narrow structure.
• Serves as both a tourist attraction and a functional pedestrian route used daily by locals.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re planning a trip to the Exorcist Steps, timing matters more than you’d think. Early mornings are perfect if you want solitude — you’ll hear the city waking up, the distant hum of traffic, and maybe a few birds nesting in nearby trees. The light is soft then, perfect for photos without harsh shadows. Late afternoon, especially around golden hour, is another sweet spot. The sun hits the top of the stairs and makes the old bricks glow.

Avoid weekends if you can, because it tends to get crowded with movie fans and tour groups. Halloween season is particularly busy — no surprise there — but it’s also the most atmospheric time to visit. There’s this shared energy among visitors, a mix of excitement and nostalgia. If you’re into that kind of vibe, October evenings are unbeatable. Just bring comfortable shoes and maybe a flashlight if you’re visiting after dark; those steps can get tricky.

How to Get There

The Exorcist Steps sit right in the heart of Georgetown, one of DC’s most charming and historic neighborhoods. You can easily reach the area by public transport, rideshare, or even on foot if you’re exploring nearby attractions. The closest major metro stop is Foggy Bottom–GWU, and from there it’s about a 15- to 20-minute walk through some lovely streets lined with old row houses and cafes.

If you’re driving, parking can be a bit of a headache — Georgetown isn’t exactly known for its abundance of spaces. There are a few small lots nearby, but they fill up fast, especially on weekends. Honestly, walking is the best way to get there. You’ll get to soak in the neighborhood’s character — cobblestone alleys, boutique shops, and the occasional whiff of espresso from a corner café. And then, suddenly, you’ll find yourself at the top of those famous stairs, looking down at the same view that’s been immortalized on film for decades.

Tips for Visiting

A few things I wish someone had told me before my first visit: wear sturdy shoes. Seriously, those stairs are no joke — steep, uneven, and a bit slippery when it rains. If you’re planning to take photos (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), go during daylight. The lighting can be dramatic in the evening, but the lower steps get shadowed fast.

Bring water if you’re visiting in summer; the climb back up is a workout. And if you’re a fan of “The Exorcist,” take a moment to stand at the bottom and look up. You’ll instantly recognize the angle from the movie poster — it’s one of those surreal moments where fiction and reality blur together. But even if you’ve never seen the film, the steps still hold their own charm. They’re a slice of DC history that feels authentic, untouched by the gloss of modern tourism.

For accessibility, it’s worth noting that the stairs aren’t suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. The incline is too steep, and there’s no ramp alternative. If that’s a concern, you can still view the steps from the top or bottom without making the full descent — the perspective from either end is impressive enough.

And here’s a little personal tip: grab a coffee from one of the nearby spots before you go. Sit at the top of the stairs for a few minutes and just watch the world move. Locals rushing to class, tourists snapping selfies, the occasional movie buff reenacting a scene — it’s all part of the charm. The Exorcist Steps may be famous for their cinematic past, but in person, they’re a living part of Georgetown’s daily rhythm.

Whether you’re a film lover, a history buff, or just someone who enjoys exploring places with a story to tell, the Exorcist Steps deliver that rare mix of mystery and authenticity. They’re not polished or overly commercialized — and that’s exactly what makes them special. You’ll leave with a few photos, maybe a bit out of breath, but definitely with a story worth sharing.

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