Exorcist steps

The Exorcist Steps are a steep concrete stairway of 75 steps in Georgetown, connecting M Street with Prospect Street. The staircase runs alongside the old Georgetown Car Barn and serves as a public passageway between the upper and lower streets of the neighborhood.

George Killeen built the stairway in 1895 as a public right of way during construction of the Capital Traction Company facility. Washington's Historic Preservation Review Board declared the steps the first official landmark of early 2019.

The stairway rose to worldwide attention through its role in the 1974 horror film, where a key sequence was shot on this spot. Visitors often stop here to see the location where Father Karras tumbles down the flight in the movie.

The stairway is freely accessible at any time of day, though caution is advised during wet or icy weather. Those attempting the climb should expect some effort, as the steps are steep and the descent can be demanding.

Though the stairway is now made of concrete, the original steps were built from wood and later replaced. Many film enthusiasts make the climb to photograph the scene from their own perspective.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Part of: Georgetown Car Barn, The Exorcist

GPS coordinates: 38.90550,-77.07020

Latest update: December 17, 2025 07:09