San Francisco’s Iconic Crooked Street

Lombard Street is a must-see San Francisco landmark, famous for its winding one-way section with eight sharp hairpin turns that descend a steep hill. Located about 2 miles from Hotel Nikko, the street offers charming, meticulously landscaped gardens and stunning panoramic views of the city, Bay Bridge, and Coit Tower. Whether driving its famous curves or strolling along the sidewalks, visitors find plenty of photo-worthy moments and a uniquely San Francisco experience.

Aerial view of the winding Lombard Street near Hotel Nikko San Francisco

Details

San Francisco, CA, USA

Distance from hotel : 2.0 miles

Plan your visit

Prices

Hours

Events

Activities

Know before you go

Why is Lombard Street so crooked?

Lombard Street’s famous eight hairpin turns were designed in 1922 by local property owner Carl Henry to reduce the street’s dangerously steep 27% grade. The switchbacks made the road safer and more manageable for vehicles, turning a practical solution into a beloved San Francisco landmark.

Is Lombard Street the crookedest street in San Francisco?

Although popularly known as the “crookedest street in the world,” Lombard Street is actually the second-most crooked street in San Francisco. Vermont Street on Potrero Hill holds the title for the most crooked. However, Lombard’s iconic brick-paved curves and stunning landscaping make it the city’s most famous and picturesque crooked street.