Staircases are nothing particularly unique. Let’s be honest, they are pretty standard. However there is a hidden staircase in a popular section of DC that few people realize actually exist. The Exorcist Steps in Georgetown will absolutely give your chills!
Tucked away in a normal corner of Georgetown is a very step and narrow staircase. Most people don’t even notice it because it’s hidden between an old industrial building and a gas station.
In the movie, one of the main characters, Father Damien Karras, plummets to his death down the steep staircase. It’s a haunting scene that has lived in Georgetown lure for decades.
It might be because it is in fact a very long staircase. There are 75 steps and three landings and many people have to take a break when they walk up it. Or maybe the feeling is due to the fact that the steps are incredibly step and, yes, a bit dangerous.
Or maybe it’s because there is something rather spooky and unnatural about this hidden staircase in the middle of the city. Maybe the creepy feeling of the scene and the movie itself has stuck with the setting for years.
Either way, if you want to get a good thrill, head to the Exorcist steps at dark. You might see a tourist or two hamming it up on the steps for a good Instagram photo. Or if you’re lucky (or unlucky?), you’ll end up there all on your own in the quiet stillness of the long stairs.
When people ask of things to do in Washington, D.C., you’ll hear all the same suggestions. It’s easy to forget how much Washington, D.C., actually offers! In a city chock full of attractions, restaurants, and experiences, many amazing sights fly under the radar, even to locals. If you’re looking for something different to do, check out these hidden gems in Washington, D.C.
The Southwest Waterfront is home to the Wharf and one of the oldest operating open-air fish markets. Visitors can enjoy the freshest seafood from the Municipal Fish Market (also known as Maine Avenue Fish Market) before relaxing on the scenic waterfront.
Most people know about Rock Creek Park, but what they don’t know about the park is that there are stables deep in the woods where you can take riding lessons, trail rides, or pony rides.
This peaceful urban oasis is so under the radar that many locals admit to never knowing about it! Built in the early 20th century, the Spanish Steps, nearby fountain, and surrounding area are perfect for a romantic stroll or quiet afternoon.
D.C. has a taste of Hollywood in this beautiful museum and garden. The former home of socialite Marjorie Merriweather Post, Hillwood offers a gorgeous garden and an art collection and is an excellent break from the crowds at the more traditional museums.
Check out this awesome video from @travelingtipps and get a sneak peek at the Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens:
As museums go, the Smithsonian's National Postal Museum is not on the top list for people in D.C., but it should be. Mailboxes, advertisements, airmail, and a rich history of communication lies inside.
The Summerhouse is a small hexagon-shaped brick structure on the West Front lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building. It was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted to provide a resting place and water for visitors. There is a central fountain that provides a calming atmosphere and beautiful views.
Hidden near the National Academy of Sciences, this unassuming bronze memorial is often forgotten among the larger memorials around it but no less fun to visit, especially for science lovers.
There’s lots of focus on Ford’s Theater and The White House, but in D.C. is President Lincoln’s Cottage, where he lived and developed the Emancipation Proclamation.
This destination is truly one of the best D.C. hidden gems. I love this video from @LincolnsCottage:
The United States Naval Observatory is home to the Master Clock, the official time of the Department of Defense, and is in charge of recording measurements for Earth’s orientation for the almanac and GPS satellites. The Vice President also lives on the grounds. Tours are hard to obtain, but when you get one, check out the spectacular view of the stars through their telescope.
Spirit of Justice Park is a hidden, child and dog-friendly gem atop a semi-underground parking garage. It's not listed on the Architect of the Capitol's website, spans two blocks, and has four entrances, but only one is marked. The park offers peace, quiet, and beautiful flowers.
An eccentric old Victorian mansion now transformed into a luxury hotel, private club, and museum. The funky decor, hidden doors, and secret passages make this hidden gem a favorite of D.C. locals.
Dumbarton Oaks is a historic estate in Georgetown that features beautiful gardens and serves as a research library and museum. It’s a fantastic place to stroll in springtime when flowers are blooming.
This video from @kuroshiocurrent really showcases Dumbarton Oaks' beauty.
Delightfully creepy, the infamous steps from the movie "The Exorcist" exist in Georgetown. Run up and down them a few times, and they’ll wear you out. But avoid them on Halloween.
An old, abandoned church in Southwest D.C. had a technicolor makeover as part of an arts revitalization. Not many people stumble over it, but those who do never forget it.
Just outside of D.C., Gravelly Point Park is perfect for bikers, runners, and picnickers. If you time your visit right, you can watch the planes buzzing by as they land at nearby Ronald Reagan Airport.
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Do you think these are the best hidden gems in Washington, D.C.? I love the vibe of The Technicolor Church - how about you? Let me know!
DC has plenty of historical attractions that you can experience. In fact, one could argue that the whole city is a historical attraction. But there are some historic sites that are better known than others. But we're here to argue for those lesser known sites. Just because they are not in in every guidebook, doesn't mean they are not worth seeing. One of the most interesting historic sites in DC is one of the most lesser known places in DC. President Lincoln's Cottage might be one of DC's best attractions.
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President Lincoln is one of the most fascinating and important presidents in this country's history. While you can learn about him at The White House and at Ford's Theatre, Lincoln's Cottages gives visitors a unique look into his life.
He would often ride the 30 minute, 3.5-mile ride to the White House every day and then come back to the cottage in the evening. In fact, Lincoln wrote the Emancipation Proclamation at his summer home.
It has been renovated and preserves much of the past. It is an incredible look at what life was like during the Civil War and how it impacted the president.
Visitors can take guided tours of the home. The tour guides are gifted storytellers and historians who are able to transport you back to the Civil War.
Because the house is located in Petworth, far from the normal tourist attractions, it's relatively unknown and often uncrowded place. In addition to tours, they occasionally hold private events and special programs at the home.
If you live in DC, you should definitely take a trip to Lincoln's Cottage to learn more about this impactful president. The Cottage is located at 140 Rock Creek Church Rd NW, Washington, DC 20011. It is open daily and admission is $15 for adults and $5 for children under the age of 12.
Have you visited President Lincoln's Cottage in Washington DC before? It really does belong on your DC bucket list! Visit the official website for President Lincoln's Cottage to learn more and plan your excursion.
