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Lombard Street

📍 United States, California, San Francisco, Lombard Street (between Hyde and Leavenworth)

1 photos

4.6/ 5.0

★★★★★

Introduction

The Crookedest Street is a section of Lombard Street famed as the "world's most crooked street." To tame a steep ~27-degree grade, the road was designed with eight sharp switchback turns paved in red brick, flanked by hydrangeas and other flowers whose blooms play off the brick. Visitors can walk down the steps from the top or drive the winding descent, and from the crest enjoy distant views of Coit Tower and the bay. This exquisite floral lane has become one of San Francisco's most photogenic streetscapes.

✨ Highlights

Eight-switchback floral path

Red-brick zigzag turns flanked by flowers—the signature shot.

Bay view from the crest

From the top you can see Coit Tower, Angel Island and the bay.

Cable car connection

Ride the Powell–Hyde cable car to the top—a classic experience itself.

Seasonal blooms

Most dazzling when hydrangeas burst in spring and summer, rich in color.

One-way downhill traffic

The block is one-way downhill at a crawl-speed limit; in high season cars queue bumper to bumper and walking down is quicker and safer.

Russian Hill surroundings

Quiet residential streets lead on to North Beach and Little Italy — ideal for a coffee stop on the way.

🛈 Practical Info

→Best time to visit：Early morning has few people and cars, soft light—best for photos.

→Walking view：Paved steps on both sides; walking down shows the floral path best.

→Respect residents：Private homes line the street—keep quiet and don't enter yards.

→Driving：You can drive the descent, but peak-season queues and one-way only.

→Steep grade：Extremely steep; mind your footing and wear non-slip shoes.

💡 Tips

• Shoot from the bottom looking up to capture the whole curve and flowers in one frame.

• Take the cable car to the Hyde Street top and walk down the crooked street—the easiest route.

• A residential area, quieter mornings and evenings, crowded with tourists by day.

• Cable car schedules and fares are subject to the San Francisco transit authority.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Lombard Street?

Shoot from the bottom looking up to capture the whole curve and flowers in one frame. Take the cable car to the Hyde Street top and walk down the crooked street—the easiest route.

Information on this page is compiled from public sources. Opening hours, ticket prices and other details may change — please verify with official sources before your visit.