Lombard Street
San Francisco’s world-famous "Crookedest Street" nestled on Russian Hill.
History & Heritage
Lombard Street spans across San Francisco, but its world-famous one-block stretch on Russian Hill—between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets—is known globally for its eight sharp hairpin turns. Designed in 1922 by property owner Carl Henry, the switchbacks were constructed to reduce the hill's steep 27% natural grade, making it safely navigable for automobiles.
Along with the red-brick paved roadway, lush flower beds filled with hydrangeas and chrysanthemums were planted along the curves. Over the decades, this unique engineering solution transformed a quiet neighborhood slope into one of San Francisco's most iconic visual attractions, drawing millions of visitors every year.
Things to Do
Walk the Pedestrian Stairs
Walk down the public stairways on either side of the curved street for up-close views of the manicured gardens, Victorian homes, and cars navigating the switchbacks.
Drive the Eight Hairpin Curves
Experience driving down the brick-paved block from top to bottom. Expect a slow, scenic crawl with a strict 5 mph speed limit.
Ride the Cable Car
Take the Powell-Hyde cable car line directly to the top of Lombard Street at Hyde Street for seamless access and stunning bay views in the background.
Photograph from Below
Stand at the intersection of Leavenworth and Lombard Streets looking upward to capture the classic, postcard-style photo of the zigzag street and vibrant flower beds.
Tips for Visitors
- Visit Early Morning: Avoid long vehicle queues and heavy pedestrian crowds by arriving before 9:00 AM.
- Driving Route Info: Traffic flows one-way only, moving downhill from west to east (Hyde Street down to Leavenworth Street).
- Respect the Neighborhood: Lombard Street is an active residential area. Stay on sidewalk paths, refrain from stepping into private gardens, and keep noise low.
- Pedestrian Safety: Never walk directly in the middle of the roadway for photos while vehicles are making their way down the turns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee to walk or drive down Lombard Street?
No, Lombard Street is a public city road and free to access for both pedestrians and drivers 24 hours a day.
Is Lombard Street actually the crookedest street in the world?
While famous for the title, Vermont Street in San Francisco's Potrero Hill neighborhood is technically steeper and has sharper turns, but Lombard Street remains the most famous and visually stunning.
How do I get to Lombard Street using public transit?
The easiest option is taking the Powell-Hyde Cable Car line, which drops passengers off right at the top of the street on Hyde St. The Muni Bus Line 30 also stops nearby at Columbus Ave.
Where is the best spot to take a photo of Lombard Street?
The classic photo of the street's full zigzag pattern is best captured from the bottom of the hill at Leavenworth Street looking up toward Hyde Street.