Name: Lombard Street
Address: Lombard St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Rating: 4.6

On a 27-degree angle, this famously crooked street features 8 hairpin turns & landscaped flowerbeds.

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Lombard Street is famous for its eight sharp hairpin turns, creating its iconic crooked appearance.

Hairpin Turns

The switchbacks were built in the 1920s to make the steep street safer for pedestrians and vehicles.

Safety First

Lombard Street didn't become a popular postcard subject until the 1960s, 30 years after the hairpin turns were added.

Postcard Fame

While known as the "crookedest street in the world," Lombard Street isn't actually the most crooked street in San Francisco.

Crookedest Street

The switchbacks were designed not only for safety but also to enhance the street's scenic appeal.

Switchback Design

Lombard Street is located in the Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, known for its steep slopes and beautiful views.

Neighborhood Location

Lombard Street

Lombard Street in San Francisco, California, is renowned as the "Crookedest Street in the World." Its iconic one-block section features eight hairpin turns, designed in 1922 to reduce the steep 27% grade. The street stretches from The Presidio to The Embarcadero, with a gap on Telegraph Hill. Most of Lombard Street serves as a major thoroughfare designated as part of U.S. Route 101. The famous crooked block, located in the Russian Hill neighborhood, attracts around two million visitors annually. It is a one-way street, descending downhill and paved with red bricks. The sign at the top recommends a cautious 5 mph (8 km/h) speed limit. The segment sees heavy traffic, with an average of 2,630 vehicles per day in 2013. To reduce congestion, future visitors may be required to reserve a time and pay a fee to drive down the crooked street.

Introduction

Lombard Street in San Francisco, California, United States, is renowned as the "Iconic Zigzag Street." This one-of-a-kind block, located between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets in the Russian Hill neighborhood, is a must-see for visitors seeking an unforgettable experience. The street's eight hairpin turns, designed in 1922 to reduce its steep 27% grade, have made it a global sensation. Lombard Street's unique layout offers a thrilling driving experience, with vehicles cautiously navigating the sharp curves while tourists marvel at the spectacle. The street's picturesque setting, adorned with vibrant flowers and manicured shrubs, adds to its charm. Visitors can also explore Lombard Street on foot, admiring the stunning views of San Francisco Bay, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Golden Gate Bridge from the top of the hill. Whether driving or walking, Lombard Street's iconic zigzag design guarantees a memorable and captivating experience.

Iconic Zigzag Street

Lombard Street, the iconic "Crookedest Street in the World," is a photographer's paradise. Its eight hairpin turns, surrounded by vibrant Russian Hill mansions and meticulously landscaped gardens, create a picturesque backdrop for capturing the essence of San Francisco. The best vantage points for photography are either at the bottom, looking up the winding street, or at the top, offering breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay, the Bay Bridge, and Coit Tower.

Beyond its visual appeal, Lombard Street is steeped in history. Its switchbacks were added in the 1920s as a safety measure to reduce the steep grade, making it a unique subject for capturing the city's architectural ingenuity. The street's popularity as a photography destination has grown exponentially since the 1960s, when it began appearing on postcards.

Photographers seeking unique perspectives can explore the side streets adjacent to Lombard Street, such as Leavenworth and Hyde, for alternative angles and compositions. The early morning or late evening hours offer optimal lighting conditions, casting a warm glow on the street and minimizing crowds. Whether you're an amateur enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Lombard Street presents endless opportunities to capture the charm and character of San Francisco through the lens of your camera.

Photography Destination

Lombard Street, renowned as the "Crookedest Street in the World," stands as a testament to the ingenuity of urban planning and engineering. Its unique design, implemented in 1922, transformed a steep hill into a navigable thoroughfare, reducing its gradient from 27% to a manageable 16%. This innovative solution not only enhanced safety but also created a picturesque spectacle that has captivated visitors for decades.

The street's eight hairpin turns are meticulously engineered to accommodate both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The precise angles and curves ensure a smooth and controlled descent, while the vibrant landscaping adds a touch of aesthetic charm. The combination of functionality and beauty has made Lombard Street a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike.

Beyond its visual appeal, Lombard Street also showcases the city's commitment to sustainable urban design. The street's brick pavers, chosen for their durability and low maintenance, contribute to the city's environmental initiatives. The landscaping, featuring drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation systems, further demonstrates San Francisco's dedication to responsible resource management.

As an engineering marvel, Lombard Street exemplifies the harmonious integration of innovation, aesthetics, and environmental consciousness. Its unique design, coupled with its sustainable features, has transformed a mere roadway into an iconic symbol of San Francisco's urban ingenuity and environmental stewardship.

Engineering Marvel

Lombard Street, an iconic symbol of San Francisco, is renowned for its unique and captivating character. Its fame stems from the intriguing twists and turns that make up the one-block section between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. This stretch, often referred to as the "crookedest street in the world," has become a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike.

Beyond its whimsical appearance, Lombard Street holds historical significance. Initially conceived as a practical solution to the steep incline, the switchbacks were added in 1922 to enhance safety. Today, Lombard Street stands as a testament to the city's architectural ingenuity and charm.

The street's allure extends beyond its serpentine path. The surrounding neighborhood exudes a vibrant atmosphere, with charming cafes, quaint shops, and art galleries adding to its appeal. Visitors can venture beyond the main attraction to discover hidden gems, such as the Cable Car Museum and the Haas-Lilienthal House, which offer glimpses into San Francisco's rich past.

Lombard Street's fame has also made it a popular backdrop for films and television shows, further solidifying its status as a San Francisco icon. Its unique character has captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing the city's eclectic spirit and enduring charm.

San Francisco Symbol

Lombard Street in San Francisco, California, holds the Guinness World Record for the most crooked street in the world. This iconic one-block stretch, located between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets, features eight sharp hairpin turns that navigate a steep 27% incline. The unique design was implemented in 1922 to reduce the hill's natural grade, making it more accessible for vehicles. Lombard Street's fame has soared, attracting millions of visitors annually who marvel at its engineering marvel and picturesque charm. The street's red brick pavement, lush flower beds, and charming Victorian homes create a visually stunning backdrop for countless photographs and social media posts. Despite its popularity, Lombard Street remains a functional residential road, with residents navigating its twists and turns daily. The street's unique status as a world record holder has cemented its place in popular culture, featured in numerous films, television shows, and even video games.

World Record Holder

Lombard Street, renowned as the "Crookedest Street in the World," is a must-visit destination for those seeking an adrenaline-pumping drive or a captivating stroll. Nestled in the Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, this iconic street boasts a unique zig-zagging design that was ingeniously engineered to tame its steep 27% incline. The eight hairpin turns, adorned with vibrant flowers and manicured shrubs, create a picturesque spectacle that draws visitors from far and wide.

Despite its fame, Lombard Street is not the steepest street in San Francisco. That title belongs to Vermont Street, located in the Potrero Hill neighborhood. However, Lombard Street's charming aesthetics and convenient location make it a more popular attraction.

Driving down Lombard Street is an experience like no other. As you navigate the winding turns, you'll feel a mix of exhilaration and trepidation, especially as you approach the sharpest bends where visibility is limited. The recommended speed limit of 5 mph ensures a safe descent, allowing you to fully appreciate the street's unique character.

Whether you choose to drive, walk, or simply admire the view from afar, Lombard Street offers a captivating glimpse into San Francisco's rich history and engineering prowess. Its steep slopes and distinctive turns have made it a beloved landmark, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Steepest Street

Lombard Street, renowned as the "Crookedest Street in the World," is a must-see attraction in San Francisco. This iconic one-block stretch, located in the Russian Hill neighborhood, boasts eight hairpin turns that make for a thrilling and unforgettable drive or walk. The street's steep incline, originally a challenge for vehicles, led to its unique design in the 1920s to enhance safety. Today, Lombard Street is a pedestrian-friendly paradise, with beautifully manicured landscaping and colorful hydrangeas lining the red brick road. Visitors can capture breathtaking photos from the bottom, looking up at the serpentine street, or enjoy the panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, Coit Tower, and the Golden Gate Bridge from the top. While Lombard Street is a popular tourist destination, it's important to be respectful of the residents who live along the street and avoid blocking driveways or creating excessive noise.

Lombard Street

Did You Know?

Hairpin Turns

Safety First

Postcard Fame

Crookedest Street

Location