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

The D.C.: Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Haunted Tour offers a captivating 1.5-hour walk through the historic streets of Georgetown, a neighborhood older than Washington, DC itself. For just $39 per person, this tour combines spooky stories, local legends, and a visit to one of the most haunted buildings in DC. The tour is perfect for those interested in ghost stories, movie history, and historic architecture with a family-friendly approach. With a rating of 4.7 from 120 reviews, it stands out as a popular choice among visitors seeking both entertainment and education.

The tour departs from outside the Old Stone House, located at 3051 M St NW, making it easy to find. The experience is led by a licensed tour guide who shares deep secrets, true crime tales, and ghost stories in a lively and engaging way. While it involves walking through historic streets and gardens, the pace is suitable for most ages, and only a moderate level of walking is required. This tour offers a balanced mix of history and hauntings, making it an appealing option for families, movie buffs, and history enthusiasts alike.

Key Points

• Price: Only $39 per person for a 1.5-hour walking experience.
• Highlights: Visit the Exorcist Steps, explore one of DC’s oldest haunted buildings, and hear tales of haunted houses, curses, and true crime.
• Family Friendly: The tour is suitable for families with teens and maintains a light, spooky tone.
• Includes Access: Tour includes entry to the yard of a haunted building and a walk down the famous Exorcist Stairs.
• Guides: Led by knowledgeable, engaging guides who share storytelling and local legends.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellations are available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at the Old Stone House

The tour begins outside the Old Stone House, a historic pre-Revolutionary home considered one of Washington’s most haunted structures. This central location provides a fitting start for a tour steeped in ghost stories and historic lore. Visitors can easily find this meeting spot, and the setting immediately immerses them in Georgetown’s colonial past, setting the tone for the stories that follow.

Discovering Haunted Houses and Victorian Secrets

Throughout the tour, visitors walk past Victorian row houses with Haint Blue porches, believed to ward off spirits. The guide explains the significance of blue-painted porches—a tradition that aims to keep evil spirits from crossing into homes. Stops include stories of haunted houses and curses rooted in Georgetown’s Victorian era, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the spooky tales.

Exploring the Old Stone House’s Ghostly Past

The Old Stone House itself plays a prominent role in the tour. Built before the American Revolution, it is believed that original builders may still roam its halls. Visitors gain access to its yard, where paranormal activity is believed to occur. The guide shares stories of Civil War-era boarding schools and hospitals, where screams of amputations are said to still echo. These stories give a haunting sense of Georgetown’s turbulent past.

The Mysterious Porches and Spirits Within

One of the tour’s vivid visuals involves porches painted Haint Blue, traditionally thought to act as spiritual barriers. The guide discusses the cultural significance of this tradition, adding local color and mystique. The question of whether spirits are already inside remains a fascinating part of the narrative. These details deepen the atmosphere of mystery during the walk.

More Great Tours Nearby

Civil War Ghost Stories and Historic Buildings

The tour takes you past historic houses where lights turn off nightly at the same time, linked to a nanny’s rules long after her departure. Stories of Civil War hospitals and boarding school hauntings evoke images of screaming amputations and restless spirits. These tales blend history and hauntings, making the neighborhood’s dark past feel vividly real.

The Eccentric Creator of the Exorcist Stairs

A highlight is the visit to the famous Exorcist Steps, featured in the horror movie The Exorcist. The guide recounts the true story that inspired a Georgetown student to write a book. The stairs were built by a man who slept in a coffin, refused to add electricity, and built stairs to nowhere. Walking down these haunted stairs is both iconic and thrilling.

The Supernatural Lore of the Stairs and Beyond

The guide shares stories of spirits lingering on the Exorcist Steps, blending film history with local legends. Some guides mention flickering lights and paranormal activity believed to be connected to the haunted stories of the neighborhood. The legendary status of the stairs draws visitors eager to stand where horror scenes unfolded, with some guides even sharing personal experiences of paranormal phenomena.

The Tour’s Unique Blend of History and Horror

What sets this tour apart is its combination of historic storytelling and supernatural tales. It balances fact-based history—like the Old Stone House and Civil War hospitals—with ghostly legends, creating an engaging experience suitable for families and adventure seekers. The family-friendly tone means the stories remain spooky but not too frightening.

Accessibility and Group Experience

This guided tour is designed for small groups, creating an intimate atmosphere where guides can share stories interactively. The walks are conducted on historic streets and gardens, with moderate walking involved. The meeting point is centrally located, and the group size ensures everyone can hear the guide clearly.

The Guide’s Style and Knowledge

Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides like Scott, Wayne, Sonia, Georgia, and Ingeborg for their storytelling skills. Many mention their engaging, humorous, and enthusiastic delivery. Guides often act out tales and share bonus stories, making the experience more personal and entertaining. Safety and consideration for interests are evident, with guides accommodating families and interest levels.

Tour Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

This experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing peace of mind for uncertain schedules. Visitors can reserve now and pay later, making this a flexible option in any DC itinerary. Most tours run in the afternoon and evening, allowing visitors to choose a time that fits their plans.

Final Impressions of the Georgetown Haunted Tour

The D.C.: Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Haunted Tour stands out for its rich storytelling, historic locations, and iconic film connection. Its affordable price point and high ratings reflect value for money. The tour’s family-friendly approach and enthusiastic guides make it suitable for a wide range of visitors looking for spooky fun with historical depth.

While some may wish for more intense hauntings or longer duration, the overall balance of history, legend, and film lore makes this a well-rounded experience. For those interested in Georgetown’s dark past and iconic horror movie scenes, this tour delivers entertaining stories in a beautiful, historic setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for teens. The stories are spooky but not overly frightening.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

What is included in the price?
The tour guide, access to the yard of a haunted building, and a walk down the Exorcist Stairs are included.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside the Old Stone House at 3051 M St NW.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves moderate walking on streets and gardens. It is suitable for most visitors with normal mobility.

Is there a guide who specializes in ghost stories?
Guides like Scott, Wayne, Sonia, Georgia, and Ingeborg are known for their engaging storytelling and knowledge of local legends.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
No, the tour is conducted in English.

Do I get to see the actual Exorcist Steps?
Yes, the tour walks down the famous stairs and shares the story behind their horror fame.

What makes this tour stand out from other ghost tours?
Its iconic film location, historic buildings, and well-rated guides make it a top choice for combining pop culture and spooky history in Georgetown.

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