Washington, D.C., District of Columbia story
A Cinematic Climb
These seventy-five stone steps are more than just a shortcut between Prospect Street and Canal Road. Built in 1895 during the city's cable-car era, they became an international ic…
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These seventy-five stone steps are more than just a shortcut between Prospect Street and Canal Road. Built in 1895 during the city's cable-car era, they became an international icon after appearing in the 1973 film The Exorcist. During filming in 1972, the stairs were actually padded with foam to protect the stunt performer during that famous, chilling descent.
For decades, they were just a local architectural detail, but today, they're an official tourist site, complete with a commemorative plaque unveiled by Mayor Muriel Bowser. As you climb, just try not to think too much about the movie—unless you're into horror.
Updated June 2026