The Strange, Bizarre, and Uncommon Sights of DC
Washington D.C. is a city filled with a rich history and unusual sites that define our spike and charisma as a Nation. Whether you live in the city, are visiting from out of town, or are just intrigued by the places bound to our nation’s roots stay tuned, we are going to explore the strange and unusual attractions in Washington DC!
The strange and unusual can create quite the allure, so sit back and relax before you decide to stroll down the unbeaten path. We are going to explore the curious, wakey and just plain ghastly features in our Nation’s Capital.
Uncovering the Bizarre and Unusual Sights of Washington DC
The Exorcist Stairs: Located in Georgetown, the 97 steps from the 1976 film The Exorcist are a popular landmark. Visitors can climb the stairs as part of a workout routine or as a memorable spot for unique photos.
Secrets of the Underground Railroad: Hidden in Rock Creek Park, you can find one of many African American Underground Railroad way-stations. These structures, which were used to aid enslaved individuals on their path to freedom, are tucked away among the park’s natural beauty.
Riggs Library: Located at Georgetown University, this historic library is one of the last remaining cast-iron libraries in the U.S. It is not open to the public, but appointments can be made to explore its rare books and architectural features.
Barbie Pond: On Q Street NW, there is an anonymous art installation that features Barbie dolls in political and social scenarios. The curator updates the pond regularly for holidays and events, creating a quirky and humorous attraction.
The Peterson House: The site of President Abraham Lincoln’s death, this house features a striking monument made of over 15,000 books. The monument honors Lincoln’s legacy and serves as a reminder of the president’s lasting impact on American history.
Topless Washington at the American History Museum: The statue of George Washington, created by Horatio Greenough in 1840, depicts the first president in a semi-nude, classical style. The statue caused scandal upon its arrival due to its unorthodox portrayal of Washington.
Explore D.C.’s Bizarre Attractions: Washington D.C. offers a unique mix of historical landmarks, pop culture references, and quirky art installations. Whether you’re into film history, underground history, or modern art, there’s something strange and interesting to discover in the city.
This is the final showdown, and it’s a steep one. If you are a horror movie fanatic then you will remember the final scene of the 1976 film The Exorcist. In the scene, Father Karras takes on a demon and falls down all 97 steps of this intense staircase located in Washington D.C.
You can actually find the staircase in Georgetown on 36TH St Nw And M St NW, right next to a gas station. We invite you to climb the 97 steps in times of trouble, create a daily workout routine to kill off the demons we like to call calories. And/ or use this epic pop culture landmark as your next break-up spot for shocking results.
There are strange pieces of history tucked into the nooks and crannies of Rock Creek Park. The Mount Zion Cemetery was closed in the 1950s and now its remains are covered in vines, branches, and vegetation nearby Dupont Circle.
Among the hills and vegetation, you will find one of many African American underground railroad way-stations. This was the perfect spot because no one thought to search among the dead. If you do happen upon the 64 square foot structure which helped slaves along their path to freedom, commemorate it for the lives it saved.
The Riggs Library is a middling historical source and one of the last remaining cast-iron libraries in the nation. This building was constructed in the late 1800s by Paul J. Plez, that same architect that drafted up designs for the Library of Congress.
This incredible source of knowledge is filled with historical texts, four cast-iron staircases, and an abundance of old books from the mid 18th century. It is located in the Georgetown University library, and it is not technically open to the public. We do however suggest trying to book an appointment to explore its glorious shelves.
Next up we are headed to the place of Lincoln’s death. Inside the death place of our 16th president lies a 34ft tall monument of books dedicated to the life and times of President Lincoln. The ink and minds over the face of time have created over 15,000 writings about this president that sadly perished by gunshot on April 14th, 1865.
This peculiar monument is made from fireproof bent aluminum. Each book was hand-painted with great care, to make this monument look ultra-realistic. After climbing the staircase you can find some of the titles written on the epic piece of artwork for sale in the Peterson House. Its great commemoration reminds the passerby of the importance of reading the stories of our great nation.Peterson House
Explore the Bizarre Attractions in Washington DC
Exploring the bizarre crevices of your Nation’s Capital is a fun way to spend your day, take your partner on a date, or post your next great Instagram story.
The places that have built our Washington D.C.’s history and continue to make it the hippest, happening center of the world give way to the drastic changes that continue to take place over time.
So go explore pop culture at the stairways of the Hollywood hit horror movie The Exorcist, or delve into the underground railroad passageways hidden in Washington D.C.’s nature reserves.
Next dig deep into the crevices of the Nation’s libraries of old at Georgetown University, then hit up the Barbie pong for some adult humor and D.C. neighborhood art.
Lastly, probe the unique monuments of two of the most famous presidents in American history: Abraham Lincoln and George Washington! Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for all the latest news about events and strange happenings in your D.C. neighborhood!
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Explore the Strange and Unusual Attractions of Washington DC
What is the Exorcist Stairs in Washington DC?
The Exorcist Stairs are a famous and steep staircase located in Georgetown, featured in the 1976 horror movie, *The Exorcist*. The stairs became iconic after a dramatic scene where a character falls down all 97 steps. It’s a popular spot for horror movie fans and a quirky landmark to visit.
What is the significance of the Secrets of the Underground Railroad in Washington DC?
The Underground Railroad Way-Station is hidden in the hills of Rock Creek Park, near Dupont Circle. It served as a safe haven for escaping slaves, and it’s a place of deep historical significance. The nearby Mount Zion Cemetery, now overgrown, was used to hide the station and help those seeking freedom.
What is special about the Riggs Library in Washington DC?
The Riggs Library, located at Georgetown University, is a historic library built in the late 1800s. It features beautiful cast-iron staircases and an impressive collection of old books from the 18th century. Though not open to the public, it’s a remarkable piece of history that can be accessed through appointments.
What is the Barbie Pond in Washington DC?
The Barbie Pond is an unusual art installation on Q Street NW in DC, created by an anonymous curator who places Barbie dolls in political or whimsical scenarios. It’s a quirky, humorous, and creative attraction that changes with the seasons and holidays, and it has gained a following on social media.
What is the Peterson House in Washington DC?
The Peterson House is the location where President Abraham Lincoln died after being shot in 1865. A striking 34-foot tall monument of books dedicated to Lincoln’s legacy stands inside. Made from fireproof aluminum, it’s a unique tribute to the president and his enduring impact on history.
What is the story behind Topless Washington at the American History Museum?
Topless Washington is a statue of George Washington, created in the 1840s by artist Horatio Greenough. It depicts Washington in a semi-nude, Zeus-like pose, which caused a scandal at the time. The statue, located at the American History Museum, remains a fascinating and unexpected sight for visitors.
