The most European of American cities is a must-see on a trip to the United States. Known for its Golden Gate Bridge, its hippie district, its streetcars and even Alcatraz, San Francisco will offer travelers other nice surprises. One of them is undoubtedly Lombard Street. In the top 5 of the most winding streets in the world, it is certainly the most beautiful! Here is everything there is to know about this curiosity.
The history of Lombard Street
Lombard Street is a very long street, which crosses San Francisco from east to west, between the Presidio and the Embarcadero. It is known for a small portion located in the district of Russian Hill, between Hyde St and Leavenworth. It was in 1922 that Carl Henry, then landowner of this block, had major development work done. At the time, this street was indeed much too steep to be able to be climbed by horses and the vehicles they towed. So he created eight tight turns to reduce the slope by 27%. Today the slope, already very impressive, is 16%.
The most famous street in San Francisco
Over the years and the tourist influx, Lombard Street has become the favorite street of visitors. Much to the chagrin of residents, overwhelmed by the noise caused. At the end of the 90s, they obtained a closure of this section to cars, but it was nevertheless reopened in 2001!
How to visit Lombard Street?
There are two ways to visit this incredible street in the heart of San Francisco ... on foot and by car ! If you are driving, be aware that traffic is only allowed in one direction: from west to east downhill. Set your GPS to 1099 Lombard Street, this is the top of the street. Please note, the speed is limited to 8 km / h (5 mph), which means that you will have time to admire the landscape ! On the other hand, there can be a lot of people: to avoid traffic jams, go there early in the morning or very late in the evening.
Traffic jams in Lombard Street
Another way to visit this incredible street: by using your legs! It will be more zen than in the car, but more tiring. Your calves will be put to the test, whether on the ascent or the descent. So don't hesitate to take breaks to enjoy the exceptional view!
A fabulous panorama
Lombard Street itself is splendid: entirely paved with bricks, it is lined with flowers with changing colors according to the seasons. The street has also inspired many filmmakers, we see it for example in “Bullitt” with Steve McQueen or in “Un amour de Coccinelle”.
The photogenic view of the street
Very photogenic, Lombard Street will offer you beautiful holiday shots. The best spot to immortalize your visit is on Leavenworth. You'll get the perfect photos to post on social media! At the top of the street you will also have an incredible view of the San Francisco bay as well as on the Golden Gate Bridge, if the weather is short. To photograph them, head to George Sterling Park, at the top of the famous street.
Golden Gate view from Lombard Street
If you're a fan of extravagant places, Lombard Street is definitely not to be missed when visiting San Francisco. So are these 10 things to do in the city. And if this is your point of arrival before go on an adventure in the great American West, prepare well for your visit to the national parks. You can also follow the expert advice for your motorhome road trip in the USA!
