D.C.: Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Haunted Tour

Exploring the Haunted Charms of Georgetown: The Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Haunted Tour

When it comes to Washington, D.C., most visitors think of political landmarks and museums. But tucked away in the city’s oldest neighborhood is a darker, more mysterious side—full of ghost stories, eerie legends, and haunted landmarks. The Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Haunted Tour promises an intriguing mix of history, spooky tales, and a touch of Hollywood horror.

This family-friendly walk lasts about 1.5 hours and costs $39 per person. It’s designed for those who love a bit of ghostly fun mixed with genuine history, all delivered by engaging guides. Two things we find particularly appealing: the chance to walk through a neighborhood older than DC itself, lit by lanterns and streetlights, and the visit to the iconic Exorcist Steps, forever tied to a famous horror film. The main possible concern? For those sensitive to spooky stories or dark legends, some tales may feel a bit intense, though it’s tailored to be family friendly.

This tour suits curious travelers, families with teens, and anyone interested in a different way to explore Georgetown’s storied past. It’s especially rewarding if you enjoy guided storytelling and a little bit of scare with your history.

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Key Points

• Historic Neighborhood: You’ll walk through Georgetown’s streets, which are older than the city itself, by night—perfect for atmosphere.
• Famous Movie Site: The Exorcist Steps offer a unique photo opportunity and a story connected to Hollywood horror.
• Haunted Buildings & Tales: Discover haunted houses, curses, and ghost stories rooted in real events from the Victorian era and Civil War.
• Exclusive Access: The tour includes entry to the yard of one of Washington’s most haunted buildings, the Old Stone House.
• Engaging Guides: Reviews highlight knowledgeable, witty guides who make the stories come alive.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with a good balance of spooky tales and historic insights.

An Authentic Nighttime Stroll with a Spooky Twist

Walking through Georgetown at night is, frankly, part of the fun. The historic streets are lined with well-kept Victorian row houses, many with painted porches meant to ward off spirits—like the Haint Blue porches, which add an extra layer of ghostly folklore. The tour’s starting point outside the Old Stone House sets a historic tone. Built before the Revolution, this is one of the oldest surviving structures in DC, and rumors suggest its original builder still strolls its halls.

From there, your guide will weave stories about haunted houses, curses, and true crime from the Victorian era. One particularly chilling tale involves the area’s Civil War history, where some buildings served as hospitals—think of the echoes of screams from amputations performed without anesthesia. It’s the kind of storytelling that makes you look twice at the historic facades and manicured gardens.

What makes this tour stand out is the blend of history and legend, making it more than just a ghost story session. It’s a glimpse into Georgetown’s dark past, with a focus on storytelling that feels both genuine and entertaining. The anecdotes are vivid, and guides often act out scenes or add personal touches that make the stories stick.

Visiting the Old Stone House and Civil War Secrets

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Old Stone House, Washington’s only pre-Revolutionary structure. Walking into this building, you might imagine the original builder still wandering its halls. The tour includes access to the yard of one of Washington’s most haunted buildings—an experience that feels exclusive and adds a tangible edge to the walk.

The guides often share stories of Civil War-era hospitals and boarding schools that turned into makeshift medical facilities. Some stories evoke the screams of soldiers, a haunting reminder of the neighborhood’s past tragedies. While you won’t hear screams yourself, the stories are delivered with enough flair to send a chill down your spine—a fact supported by reviews highlighting the engaging story-telling style of guides like Sonia and Erin.

The tour also points out old porches painted Haint Blue, believed to keep spirits from crossing over. Whether you believe in spirits or not, it’s an interesting piece of local lore that adds color to the neighborhood’s character.

The Iconic Exorcist Steps

Of course, no ghost tour of Georgetown would be complete without a stop at the Exorcist Steps, made famous by the 1973 horror film. Standing at the bottom or top of these steep stairs, you can’t help but imagine Regan’s frantic descent in the movie. The guide shares the real story behind the filming, and it’s fascinating how a staircase has become a haunted icon.

Walking down the steps, you’ll appreciate the vivid contrast between the beautiful historic homes and the dark legend attached to this spot. Many reviews mention the thrill of standing on film history ground, and how the guide’s storytelling brings it to life.

The tour concludes here, providing a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to reflect on the blend of real history and Hollywood legend. Some visitors mentioned their guides’ engaging storytelling, with one noting a “bonus story” along the way that made the experience even more memorable.

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Practical Details and Value

At $39 per ticket, this tour offers a lot of value. It’s a well-paced, 1.5-hour walk through a neighborhood that’s visually stunning when lit up at night. The group sizes tend to be manageable, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and wit.

Included in the price is access to the yard of the haunted Old Stone House, which is a rare opportunity for visitors. Plus, walking down the Exorcist Stairs is an unforgettable experience, especially when paired with the storytelling. The tour is family-friendly, making it accessible for teens and children interested in spooky stories and history.

Timing-wise, the tour is usually available in the afternoon and evening, giving flexibility for visitors. The meeting point outside the Old Stone House makes it easy to find, and with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan with peace of mind.

The Rich Experience of Guided Storytelling

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides make or break the experience. Visitors admire guides like Wayne, Georgia, Sonia, and Erin for their engaging storytelling, humor, and ability to make history feel alive. They often act out stories or add personal touches, making the dark tales captivating rather than frightening.

Reviewers mention feeling safe walking around Georgetown at night with their guides, which is reassuring for those unfamiliar with the area. The stories aren’t just spooky—they’re woven with historical facts, giving you a richer understanding of Georgetown’s past.

Many reviewers appreciated the balance between interesting history and spooky legends, ensuring the tour isn’t just scare tactics but a genuine educational experience. For families, this means a fun way to learn about local history without it feeling overly serious or frightening.

Final Reflection: Who Will Love This Tour?

This haunted Georgetown walk is perfect for travelers who enjoy stories of the past, a touch of horror, and iconic film locations. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo explorers who want a different perspective on DC’s oldest neighborhood. The price point is reasonable considering the exclusive access and the knowledgeable guides.

If you’re someone who appreciates storytelling—whether of ghosts, history, or movies—you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The combination of beautiful historic streets, spooky tales, and a legendary staircase makes it a memorable evening outing.

And if you’re a horror fan, standing at the Exorcist Steps, hearing the story behind the scene, will be a highlight of your trip. For history buffs, the stories about Civil War hospitals and haunted buildings add depth to the neighborhood’s charm.

Final Verdict

All in all, this tour offers a good mix of entertainment, education, and atmosphere. It’s a well-organized, family-centered experience that balances spooky fun with authentic history. As long as you’re comfortable with a few ghostly stories and enjoy exploring nighttime Georgetown, this is a rewarding way to spend an evening. The glowing reviews about guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling skill are a testament to its quality.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family friendly, making it a good choice for teens and children interested in spooky stories and history.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1.5 hours long, offering a leisurely walk through Georgetown’s streets at night.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a licensed tour guide, access to the yard of one of DC’s most haunted buildings, and the walk down the Exorcist Stairs.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is outside the Old Stone House at 3051 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Reviews rave about the guides’ storytelling skills, humor, and ability to make history engaging and fun.

What makes the Exorcist Steps special?
They’re famous from the horror film, and the guide shares the real stories behind the filming, making it a fun film history moment.

Is the neighborhood safe to walk around at night?
Yes, visitors report feeling safe, especially when guided by a knowledgeable guide.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since it’s a walking tour, and dress appropriately for the weather at night.

To sum it up, the Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Haunted Tour is a well-rounded, engaging experience that offers more than just ghost stories. It’s a unique way to see one of DC’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods under the glow of night, with stories that stick with you long after the tour ends. Whether you’re a history buff, a movie lover, or just curious about Georgetown’s darker side, this tour delivers value, fun, and a sense of spooky adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby