Lombard Street | San Francisco

Lombard Street is one of the most famous streets in San Francisco, known for its unique, winding design and stunning views. Often referred to as the "crookedest street in the world", it has become a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors who come to experience its distinctive curves and the scenic beauty that surrounds it.

History and Design

Original Design: Lombard Street was originally a straightforward steep hill in San Francisco, but due to its extreme slope (about 27% grade), it was considered difficult and dangerous for vehicles to travel. In the 1920s, the city's engineers decided to redesign the street to make it safer for cars and pedestrians.

Curvy Design: In 1922, Carmelita Zanze, a local property owner, proposed the idea of creating a series of eight sharp turns along the street, inspired by the design of European streets that were made more navigable through similar curves. The street was redesigned to include hairpin curves, turning it into the famous winding section that exists today.

Safety and Aesthetic Appeal: The winding design reduced the steepness of the slope, making it safer for vehicles to drive down while also giving it a distinctive look. The design also created an opportunity for beautiful landscaping, turning Lombard Street into one of the most picturesque streets in the city.

The "Crooked" Section

Famous Curves: The most famous part of Lombard Street is the section between Leavenworth Street and Hyde Street, which features the eight sharp, 90-degree turns. The street is just one block long, but it has earned international fame for its unique appearance and charming, scenic layout.

Landscaping: The section of Lombard Street is beautifully landscaped, with colorful flowers, manicured plants, and ornamental trees that line both sides of the road. This lush greenery adds to the charm of the street and makes it a particularly popular spot for photographs.

Lombard Street as a Tourist Attraction

Popular Photo Spot: Due to its unique design and picturesque surroundings, Lombard Street has become a must-see destination for tourists visiting San Francisco. The street offers an excellent opportunity for visitors to take photos, with the downtown skyline in the background and views of the San Francisco Bay in the distance.

Driving Down the Street: While many people visit to walk the street and admire its beauty, some also drive down Lombard Street to experience the famous curves themselves. However, driving down the street is often slow due to its steepness and sharp turns. It’s advisable to drive carefully when navigating the twists.

Pedestrian Access: For those not interested in driving, Lombard Street is easily accessible on foot. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll up or down the winding street and take in the panoramic views of the city, including notable landmarks like Coit Tower and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Key Features of Lombard Street

Scenic Views: From the top of Lombard Street, visitors can enjoy views of the bay and downtown San Francisco. On a clear day, the Golden Gate Bridge is visible, and you can even spot Alcatraz Island in the distance.

Architectural Charm: The homes along Lombard Street are often Victorian-style, adding to the historic and charming atmosphere of the area. The architectural design of these homes, combined with the landscaping, creates a visually appealing environment.

Surrounding Area: Lombard Street is located in the Russian Hill neighborhood, one of San Francisco’s most picturesque districts. This area is filled with charming streets, hills, and homes that reflect the city’s unique character. The Cable Car line that runs nearby adds to the old-world charm of the area.

Visiting Lombard Street

Location: Lombard Street is located in the Russian Hill neighborhood, running between Leavenworth Street and Hyde Street. It can be easily reached by public transportation, including Muni buses and the F line streetcars. It’s also accessible by foot, especially for those visiting the nearby Fisherman’s Wharf or North Beach areas.

Opening Hours: Lombard Street is open to the public year-round, but like many busy tourist destinations, it can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially on weekends and holidays. Visitors are encouraged to come early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.

Accessibility: The street is narrow and quite steep, so it can be difficult for people with mobility issues to navigate. However, there are nearby viewing areas and parks, such as Filbert Steps and Coit Tower, that provide great alternative spots for enjoying views of the street.

Interesting Facts

Not the "Crookedest": While Lombard Street is often referred to as the “crookedest street in the world,” it is not the steepest or most curvy street in the world. There are other streets around the world that have steeper slopes or more winding curves. However, Lombard’s blend of curves, landscaping, and city backdrop has made it a symbol of San Francisco.

Filbert Steps: For those interested in getting a unique perspective of Lombard Street, the Filbert Steps provide an alternative way to walk up the hill. These steep steps lead up from the base of the street to Coit Tower, offering a scenic, yet challenging, path.

Cultural Significance: Lombard Street has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, making it one of the most recognized streets in the world. Its iconic appearance continues to capture the imagination of viewers around the globe.

Conclusion

Lombard Street is a quintessential San Francisco landmark that blends quirky charm with stunning views and historical appeal. Its winding turns, vibrant landscaping, and picturesque setting make it one of the city's most unique and beloved streets. Whether you're walking, driving, or simply taking in the views from a nearby vantage point, Lombard Street is an essential stop for anyone exploring San Francisco.