Pedestrian Walkway

Overview

Lombard Street, nestled in the vibrant Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, United States, is famed globally as the 'Crookedest Street in the World'. While this title is playfully disputed by other local streets, its iconic one-block section between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets is undeniably a captivating spectacle. This picturesque stretch features eight sharp hairpin turns, descending a steep hill that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz, and Coit Tower.

Beyond the serpentine road for cars, Lombard Street provides a unique experience for pedestrians. Flanking both sides of the brick-paved switchbacks are pedestrian walkways, composed of stairs, inviting visitors to embark on a leisurely descent or a challenging ascent. These stairs allow for an intimate exploration of the street's meticulously manicured gardens, brimming with colorful hydrangeas and other flora, while offering myriad photo opportunities of the whimsical curves and the stunning vistas beyond.

History & Cultural Background

The distinctive design of Lombard Street's crooked section is not merely an aesthetic choice; it was an ingenious engineering solution to a significant urban challenge. Originally, this particular block of Lombard Street boasted an exceptionally steep natural gradient of 27 percent. Such an incline proved too hazardous for the automobiles and pedestrians of the early 20th century, making it practically impassable.

In 1922, a local property owner named Carl Henry proposed a revolutionary idea: a series of switchbacks. This creative concept aimed to reduce the hill's dangerous slope to a more manageable 16 percent, thereby enhancing safety and accessibility. The city embraced Henry's vision, and the eight hairpin turns were constructed, transforming a treacherous thoroughfare into a unique urban landmark. The street was paved with red bricks, further adding to its charm. Initially, it was a two-way street, but it was converted to a one-way downhill flow in 1939 to better manage traffic.

What Makes It Special

The pedestrian walkway on Lombard Street is special because it offers an immersive and close-up experience of this architectural marvel. Unlike drivers who must concentrate on navigating the sharp turns, walkers can truly savor every detail of the street's design and surroundings. The approximately 250 stairs on each side of the crooked section provide a safe vantage point to observe cars slowly winding their way down.

What truly sets this pedestrian experience apart are the vibrant, year-round gardens. Hydrangea bushes, planted around the 1950s and 60s, burst with color for most of the year, creating a living frame for the winding brick road and the stately Victorian homes that line it. The juxtaposition of historical architecture, vibrant flora, and the panoramic backdrop of San Francisco's skyline makes the pedestrian journey along Lombard Street an unforgettable sensory delight.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

• The 'Crookedest' Debate: Despite its worldwide renown, Lombard Street is not actually the crookedest street in San Francisco. That title technically belongs to Vermont Street on Potrero Hill, which has seven turns compared to Lombard's eight, but over a steeper gradient. Internationally, Snake Alley in Burlington, Iowa, also claims a similar title.
• A Name from Afar: The name 'Lombard' has no historical ties to San Francisco; it was named after a street in Philadelphia by city surveyor Jasper O'Farrell.
• Hollywood Favorite: This iconic street has graced the silver screen in numerous films and television shows, solidifying its status as a quintessential San Francisco landmark.
• Swiss Inspiration: Some accounts suggest that the concept of the switchbacks was inspired by the winding mountain roads found in Switzerland.
• Hydrangea Haven: The beautiful hydrangeas that contribute so much to the street's photogenic quality were specifically planted to enhance its visual appeal, particularly in the decades following its construction.

Visitor Perspective

For any curious traveler, exploring the pedestrian walkway of Lombard Street is a must-do activity. It offers a slower, more contemplative way to absorb the unique atmosphere of this famous destination. Whether you choose to walk up the stairs for a challenging workout and progressively revealing views, or descend gracefully, pausing at each turn, the experience is truly rewarding. Many visitors find the best photos can be taken from the bottom of the street looking up, capturing the full serpentine glory and the elegant homes, or from the top looking out over the bay.

Visiting the pedestrian walkway is free and accessible 24 hours a day, though daylight hours are recommended to fully appreciate the landscaping and views. While there's no need for reservations, being mindful of residents and their privacy, and staying on the designated walkways, contributes to a respectful visit. The surrounding Russian Hill neighborhood also offers charming architecture and additional scenic overlooks, making the walk down Lombard Street a perfect starting point for further exploration.