The world-famous "crookedest street" — eight tight hairpin turns dropping down Russian Hill, framed by flowerbeds and one of the best views in the city.
Plan Your Visit See HighlightsLombard Street runs across much of San Francisco, but it's the single, steep block on Russian Hill — between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets — that draws visitors from all over the world.
In the early 1920s the natural grade of this hillside block was around 27% — far too steep for most vehicles and uncomfortable for pedestrians. In 1922 the city added a series of switchbacks, turning a dangerously straight slope into the gently zig‑zagging lane you see today.
The result is one of San Francisco's most photographed landmarks: a brick-paved, one-way descent with eight sharp turns, bordered by carefully tended hydrangeas and seasonal flowers. It's free to visit, open to the public, and easy to combine with a day exploring nearby Fisherman's Wharf and North Beach.
A short visit, but plenty to take in. Here's what makes the block worth the trip.
The switchbacks are lined with flowerbeds — hydrangeas in summer, mixed blooms through spring. They're at their fullest from roughly May to September.
Shoot upward from the bottom on Leavenworth Street, or look out across the bay from the top on Hyde Street. Early morning gives the cleanest, crowd‑free shots.
The Powell‑Hyde cable car line stops right at the top of the block — a classic San Francisco arrival.
From the crest you'll catch Coit Tower, Alcatraz and the bay framed between the rooftops.
The surrounding neighborhood is full of elegant homes, quiet staircases and small cafés worth a wander.
If you're driving, the one‑way descent at 5 mph is a memorable (if slow) experience — expect a queue in peak season.
Everything you need to know before you go.
It's the most famous, though San Francisco's own Vermont Street is often cited as technically more crooked. Lombard's combination of eight turns, flowers and views is what made it iconic.
No. The street is public and free to walk or drive. You only pay if you take the cable car or park in a paid lot nearby.
Yes — the famous block is one‑way downhill (eastbound) with a 5 mph limit. In busy periods there can be a long line of cars waiting their turn.
The hydrangeas and seasonal planting look their best from roughly May through September, though there's usually something flowering in spring too.
Most visitors spend 20–40 minutes walking the block, taking photos and enjoying the view, then move on to nearby attractions.