Lombard Street - San Francisco
Lombard Street is the most famous “crookedest street in the world.” It’s a sight to behold, especially in the summer when the flowers are in full bloom. Not only is the road crooked, it’s also very steep – a 40-degree slope, to be exact. The unique zigzag street is lined with houses and beautifully manicured gardens. It’s no surprise that Lombard Street is one of San Francisco’s most visited attractions.
Best Vantage Points for Pictures
The crooked street is located on Lombard at Hyde, a few blocks uphill from Ghirardelli Square.
The best vantage point for pictures of Lombard Street is at the bottom, looking up. The best views of the city and bay are from the top, looking down.
The views from the top of Lombard Street are stunning. Coit Tower and Alcatraz Island really stand out.
Fact or Fiction?
According to an episode of “Fact or Fiction” on the Travel Channel, it was proven that Vermont Street (a section between 20th and 22nd) at the top of McKinley Square, in the Potrero Hill district of San Francisco, is actually more crooked than Lombard Street.
Drive down both of them… then you decide which one deserves the title as the crookedest street in the world.
We like driving our out-of-town visitors down Lombard Street, especially if it’s their first visit to San Francisco. Whether you’re a kid or an adult, it’s always a thrill.
Let us know what you think. Here’s a comment from one of our readers: “Lombard may be the most famous crookedest street, but Vermont takes the cake at the top of McKinley Square!”
You can also walk down Lombard Street. Or UP the zigzag hill, if you’re feeling energetic and want the exercise! Even the Cable Cars stop at the top of Lombard Street (on Hyde) to let people off to take photos.
Book Fun San Francisco Sightseeing Tours
See the sights of San Francisco at your own pace aboard a fun hop-on hop-off Double-Decker Bus Tour. The fully-narrated tour lasts around 75 minutes if you stay on the bus for the full loop. The tour covers all of central San Francisco – Fisherman’s Wharf, Ferry Building, Union Square, Chinatown, North Beach, and Lombard Street. Hop-on-and-off at your leisure at any of the 24 stops. Tour also includes a trip across the Golden Gate Bridge. Or take a fun Walking Tour of the city’s famous neighborhoods.