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

If you’re considering a walk through one of Washington, DC’s most charming and historic neighborhoods with a spooky twist, the Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Haunted Tour could be just the thing. This 1.5-hour adventure is not just about ghost stories; it offers a compelling mix of history, eerie tales, and movie lore, all delivered by engaging, knowledgeable guides.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances haunted tales with historical insights—making it enjoyable whether you’re into ghosts or just love learning about Georgetown’s past. Plus, the visit to the famous Exorcist Steps adds a pop culture element that many find fascinating. On the flip side, some travelers might find the tour’s focus on ghost stories a bit formulaic if they’re looking for a more intense or spooky experience. Though, it works best for those who enjoy a light, engaging stroll with a dash of mystery, and it’s particularly well-suited for families or groups wanting a bit of fun and history after dark.

Key Points

• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with a balanced mix of spooky stories and historical facts.
• Iconic Location: Includes a walk down the famous Exorcist Stairs, a must-see for horror fans.
• Engaging Guides: Well-reviewed guides who are funny, knowledgeable, and attentive.
• Historic Georgetown: Explores a neighborhood older than DC itself, full of Victorian homes and stories.
• Unique Stops: Visits the Old Stone House, haunted buildings, and even a backyard of one of DC’s most haunted sites.
• Value for Money: At $39 per person, it offers a good introduction to Georgetown’s darker stories without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Look at the Georgetown Haunted Tour

When we picture Georgetown, we think of its charming cobblestone streets, historic row houses, and lush gardens. But what makes this tour stand out is how it reveals the darker side of this neighborhood’s past—stories of curses, haunted houses, and true crime from the Victorian era. The tour’s focus on Georgetown’s darker history paired with its cinematic ties makes it a well-rounded experience.

Starting outside the Old Stone House, the oldest structure in DC, you’re welcomed into the neighborhood’s historic atmosphere. This pre-Revolutionary home supposedly still has its builder wandering the halls, adding a tangible ghostly vibe to the tour’s beginning. The guide will point out the symbolic Haint Blue porches, painted to keep spirits away—though some tales suggest spirits might already be inside. It’s these little details that make the stories come alive in a way that feels both fun and authentic.

Walking Through Georgetown’s Haunted Streets

As you stroll through lit-up streets at night, you’ll learn about haunted houses, curses, and stories of true crime from the Civil War era. For example, you’ll hear about boarding schools turned hospitals, where the screams of amputations are said to echo long after the events. One reviewer noted, “It was more than just a ghost tour,” pointing out how the guides share rich background info about the neighborhood.

Guides often add a humorous touch, which keeps the mood light even when discussing grim histories. One participant mentioned, “Wayne was very funny and witty,” emphasizing how the guides make the stories memorable without being overly frightening. The tour’s group size is manageable, often around 16 people, so you get plenty of attention and space to ask questions.

Unique Stops & Stories

One highlight is meeting an eccentric character who built stairs to nowhere and refused electricity in his 1799 home. These stories aren’t just about ghosts; they reveal the quirky and sometimes eerie personalities that shaped Georgetown. Another stop is the backyard of one of DC’s most haunted buildings, which you get exclusive access to—adding a memorable element to the experience.

The tour also covers the history of buildings like the Old Stone House, where the original builder might still be lurking. Such stories add depth, giving you context about what life was like centuries ago. A notable aspect is the story of a nanny’s rules that apparently linger long after she left, letting your imagination run wild about what spirits might still be around.

The Exorcist Steps: A Cult Classic

Of course, no mention of Georgetown’s haunted side would be complete without the famous Exorcist Steps. You’ll walk down this 75-step staircase, made famous by the horror movie The Exorcist. The guide shares the true story that inspired the film’s scene, giving fans a deeper appreciation of the locale’s pop culture significance. Many travelers find this a real highlight, especially if they’re movie buffs or horror fans.

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The Overall Experience and Value

At $39 per person, this tour offers solid value—covering a lot of ground in just an hour and a half and providing exclusive access to certain haunted sites. The friendly, lively guides and the combination of history, stories, and movie lore make it an engaging outing for a wide range of visitors.

Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the interesting mix of facts. One reviewer shared, “Sonia was an amazing guide and Trevor was excellent with communication,” highlighting the professionalism and warmth of the team. Another appreciated the family-friendly tone, making it suitable for teens and kids interested in spooky stories but not too intense or frightening.

Breaking Down the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Duration

The tour begins outside the Old Stone House on M Street NW, an easily accessible location in Georgetown. At 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable length—long enough to tell good stories without feeling tiring. The timing usually falls in the afternoon or evening, so you can choose a slot that best fits your plans.

The Itinerary & Highlights

The tour is designed as a walking experience, so comfortable shoes are recommended. You’ll stroll along the historic streets, soaking in the night scenery—think wrought-iron balconies, old porches painted Haint Blue, and manicured gardens. Each stop is carefully curated to blend haunted tales with historical facts, creating a layered narrative.

Key stops include:

• The Old Stone House: Explore the oldest building in DC, rumored to be haunted.
• Victorian Homes & Gardens: Hear stories about curses, true crime, and ghost sightings.
• The Backyards & Hidden Corners: Access exclusive sites like the backyard of a haunted building.
• The Exorcist Steps: Walk down the iconic stairs and learn their cinematic and real-life significance.

What Makes It Special?

Many reviews mention how guides add a lot of personality and humor, making the tour feel like a lively storytelling session rather than a dry history lesson. The guided access to haunted sites adds an element of exclusivity, which many travelers appreciate. The pop culture tie-in with the Exorcist is a bonus for horror fans and lends the tour a unique edge.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers might find the ghost stories somewhat familiar or predictable if they’ve been on other haunted tours. Also, since the focus is on lighter, family-friendly ghost tales, those looking for something more intense or spine-chilling might be disappointed. The tour operates in the evening, which is ideal for the spooky vibe, but it’s not suited for those who prefer daytime excursions.

Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after an engaging, fun way to explore Georgetown at night, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect if you enjoy history, ghost stories, and movie landmarks without too much intensity. Families with teens or groups wanting a relaxed, informative experience will find it especially enjoyable. However, if you’re craving a truly scary or dark-horror experience, you might want to look elsewhere.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of storytelling, history, and pop culture, all delivered with warmth and humor. It’s a great way to spend an evening wandering the historic streets with a spooky twist—especially if you appreciate insightful guides and exclusive access to haunted sites.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as family-friendly, making it suitable for teens and older kids interested in ghost stories, history, and movies.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 1.5 hours, which is perfect for a relaxed evening walk.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside the Old Stone House at 3051 M St NW in Georgetown, a central and easy-to-find location.

What’s included in the price?
A licensed tour guide, access to the yard of a haunted building, and a walk down the Exorcist Steps are all included.

Is it good value for money?
Absolutely. For just $39, you get a mix of stories, exclusive access, and a unique night-time stroll in historic Georgetown.

What makes the guides stand out?
Reviews consistently highlight guides’ knowledge, humor, and engaging storytelling style, which enhances the experience.

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

Are there other similar experiences?
Yes, there are various tours in Washington DC, including other ghost and historic walking tours, but this one’s blend of culture, ghost stories, and movie lore makes it unique.

Is the tour accessible in terms of walking?
It’s a walking tour through historic streets, so comfortable shoes are advisable, but it’s manageable for most people with moderate mobility.

Final Thoughts

The Ghosts of Georgetown & The Exorcist Steps Haunted Tour is a delightful way to blend history, spooky stories, and pop culture in one evening. It offers genuine value, especially considering the knowledgeable guides, exclusive access to haunted sites, and the memorable experience of walking down the famous Exorcist stairs. Perfect for those who enjoy a lighthearted, engaging ghost tour with a historic twist, this experience is likely to be a highlight of your Georgetown visit.

If you’re looking for an activity that combines entertainment, education, and a touch of mystery, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for curious travelers, horror fans, or groups wanting a safe, fun way to explore Georgetown after sunset.

You can check availability for your dates here: