The Exorcist Steps are a steep, narrow Georgetown stairway made famous by the 1973 horror film. The 75 steps connect Prospect Street and M Street, with brick townhouses and leafy trees framing the neighborhood around them. Stop at the commemorative plaque at the bottom, then view the stairs from above or climb them for a short workout. After sunset, the setting feels more atmospheric; in daylight, you can take photos from both ends and explore the surrounding streets.
The steps and the film
Built in 1895, the stairway links Prospect Street and M Street in Georgetown. Its best-known appearance came in the 1973 film The Exorcist, in a scene where Father Karras falls down the steps from a nearby house.
Foam padding was placed over the stairs for the stunt performer, who filmed the sequence twice. The real stairway is narrow and steep, so take care as you climb or descend.
The plaque and the setting
A commemorative plaque at the bottom marks the connection to the film. The steps were designated a historic landmark in 2019.
The stairway sits among Georgetown’s brick townhouses and leafy streets. You can approach from either Prospect Street NW or M Street NW, giving you a view from above or below.
Perguntas frequentes
How many steps are at The Exorcist Steps?
There are 75 steps. They are steep, so wear comfortable shoes and take care on the way up or down.
Where are The Exorcist Steps?
They are in Georgetown, Washington, DC, connecting Prospect Street and M Street. You can approach from either street.
How long does a visit take?
The steps take only a few minutes to see. Allow extra time if you want to take photos or climb them.
When is a good time to visit The Exorcist Steps?
After sunset, when the surroundings add to the film’s eerie atmosphere.
