Lombard Street

Lombard Street's most famous section, located on Russian Hill, was originally a straight, paved street with a daunting 27-percent grade. In the early 1920s, local property owners realized that the incline was far too steep for the era's primitive automobiles to navigate safely. To solve this, a plan was proposed by property owner Carl Henry to create a series of switchbacks that would make the descent manageable for vehicles and pedestrians alike. Construction of the eight sharp turns was completed in 1922, transforming the block between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets into a winding path. Over the decades, the street underwent a beautification process that added its signature red brick paving and lush landscaping. The introduction of vibrant hydrangea bushes in the mid-20th century turned the functional roadway into a botanical spectacle, solidifying its reputation as one of the most beautiful streets in the United States. Today, Lombard Street is a global icon of San Francisco, attracting millions of visitors who come to walk its stairs or drive its narrow curves. It has been featured in countless films, television shows, and video games, symbolizing the city's unique topography and creative urban planning. Despite its fame, it remains a residential street, serving as a constant reminder of the delicate balance between historic preservation and modern tourism in a bustling metropolitan area.