Lombard Street in San Francisco. The name itself conjures images of a winding, flower-lined road, instantly recognizable and endlessly photographed. As a content creator for streetsounds.net, I know that while many have heard of this iconic location, the real story of Lombard Street, beyond its serpentine charm, often remains untold. Visitors frequently ask, “What makes Lombard Street so special?” or “Can you actually drive down Lombard Street?” (Spoiler: yes, you can, and it’s free!). Before you add this must-see spot to your San Francisco itinerary, let’s delve into everything you need to know about Lombard Street and why it captivates millions.
Discovering Lombard Street: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Lombard Street stretches across the northern part of San Francisco, an impressive three-mile expanse connecting the historic Presidio to the bustling Embarcadero waterfront. While much of Lombard Street is undeniably beautiful, especially as it winds through the elegant Russian Hill neighborhood, it’s a single, remarkable block that has cemented its place in global fame.
Nestled between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets, this one-block section has earned the legendary title “The Crookedest Street in the World.” It’s important to note, for the sticklers of geographical accuracy, that Vermont Street in Potrero Hill technically boasts more curves. However, Lombard Street’s aesthetic appeal and prime location have made it the internationally recognized icon. And yes, you can still experience the thrill of driving down Lombard Street, though it’s a one-way, downhill adventure.
The Story Behind the Crookedness: Necessity Meets Ingenuity
The captivating curves of Lombard Street weren’t born from whimsical design but rather from necessity. The hill Lombard Street traverses is incredibly steep, boasting a challenging 27-degree incline. Imagine the early days of automobiles in the 1920s attempting to navigate such a slope! It would have been a formidable climb uphill and potentially treacherous downhill.
To address this issue, city planners devised the ingenious zig-zag design. These hairpin turns significantly reduced the street’s natural incline, making it safer and more manageable for both vehicles and pedestrians. The result? A 600-foot block featuring eight tight turns, transformed into a picturesque spectacle. Adding to the charm, meticulously maintained shrubs and vibrant hydrangeas in pastel hues line the red-brick road, creating a storybook-like atmosphere. Today, thousands of visitors each day eagerly take on the gentle descent, testing their driving skills (and perhaps their brakes) on this unique street.
Navigating to Lombard Street: Your GPS Coordinates
To begin your Lombard Street adventure, simply set your GPS to 1099 Lombard Street. This will guide you to the top of the famous crooked block, at the intersection of Lombard and Hyde Streets. Parking directly on Lombard Street is extremely limited due to its popularity. Your best bet for parking is a garage about six blocks away at 721 Filbert Street.
For those opting for public transportation, San Francisco offers convenient options. The public bus line 30 provides a direct route from Union Square to Columbus Avenue, placing you just a short walk from Lombard Street. For a classic San Francisco experience, hop on a cable car. The Powell-Hyde line will drop you off right at the top of the crooked block (Hyde and Lombard), while the Powell-Mason line will leave you three blocks away at Lombard and Columbus.
Experiencing Lombard Street: Wheels or Walking Shoes?
There are several ways to soak in the Lombard Street experience, each offering a unique perspective. For the quintessential visit, driving down Lombard Street is a must-do. Be prepared for a possible wait, as vehicles queue up to navigate the switchbacks. As you position your car at the top, get ready for a slightly surreal sensation – descending into the unknown as the road ahead disappears from view, almost like driving off a gentle cliff. While the panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the majestic Golden Gate Bridge are tempting distractions, remember to keep your focus on the road!
If you prefer to explore on foot, you can walk alongside the street, taking in the floral beauty and architectural details. Sidewalks and public stairways flank both sides of the crooked block, allowing you to ascend and descend at your own pace.
For the most iconic photo opportunity, head to the eastern end of the block. Parking briefly nearby will allow you to capture the full whimsical view of Lombard Street curving uphill. Bonus for movie buffs: you’ll be standing near the fictional home of Scottie Ferguson from Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller Vertigo, located at 900 Lombard Street.
Timing Your Visit: Beating the Crowds
To truly appreciate the charm of Lombard Street, it’s best to visit during off-peak hours. Avoid rush hour traffic and weekend afternoons when crowds are at their largest. A particularly enchanting time to visit is at night. The city lights twinkling in the distance create a dramatic backdrop, and the street is generally less congested.
Remember that the grand homes lining Lombard Street are private residences. Please be respectful of the residents, keeping noise levels down and allowing them access to their driveways and homes. For more on respectful visiting practices, San Francisco Travel provides guidelines on their website.
Beyond Lombard Street: Russian Hill and Nearby Gems
Maximize your visit to the Russian Hill neighborhood by exploring the surrounding attractions. Polk Street offers a delightful array of boutiques and shops. For breathtaking city views, head to Ina Coolbrith Park and gaze upon Coit Tower. Book lovers shouldn’t miss City Lights Bookstore, a San Francisco literary landmark since 1955.
Russian Hill is also a haven for food enthusiasts. Indulge in classic ice cream at Swenson’s Ice Cream, a neighborhood favorite since 1948. Cheese Plus offers gourmet sandwiches and cheeses for a delicious grab-and-go meal. For sit-down dining, explore options like Cocotte (French), Frascati (Italian), or Elephant Sushi. If you’re looking for accommodation, the western section of Lombard Street, towards Van Ness Avenue, provides numerous hotels, from charming independent options to well-known chains.
