Washington, D.C., District of Columbia story
A Cinematic Staircase
Tucked away in Georgetown is a set of 75 stone steps that are far more famous than they look. Built in 1895 during the city's cable-car era, these stairs originally served as a pe…
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Tucked away in Georgetown is a set of 75 stone steps that are far more famous than they look. Built in 1895 during the city's cable-car era, these stairs originally served as a pedestrian shortcut between Prospect Street and Canal Road. However, they gained worldwide notoriety after appearing in the 1973 film The Exorcist.
During filming in 1972, the steps were actually padded with foam to protect the stunt performer during that iconic, chilling scene. For years, movie fans have flocked here to recreate the moment, and the city eventually embraced the fame. In 2015, Mayor Muriel Bowser unveiled a commemorative plaque, officially recognizing the Exorcist Steps as a Washington tourist site.
Whether you're a horror fan or just looking for a workout, these steps are a unique intersection of urban utility and pop culture.
Updated June 2026