Free and fun to do, Lombard Street in San Francisco has become one of the most popular tourist attractions around the city. But what about for the people who live here? Well, let's not lie…it's fun for them too.
The street is steep, hilly and curvy…but it also allows for some of the best views of San Francisco's beautiful Victorian mansions. Paved with bricks, it makes you feel as though you've been transported into some forgone era, rather than the modern city that it is. People often think that the street is too busy and that they can't experience the trill of riding down or climbing up. But that's just a misconception. Although it is busy because of the speed in which people have to descend, there are plenty of times throughout the day when the street is empty and ready for you to take your trip.
Although it's just a normal street to the people who live around the city, it still makes your heart skip a beat when you know you get to drive down it. The residents don't mind at all that they live on one of America's most crooked streets, but they do ask that you keep your squealing to a minimum while they're sleeping. Located only a few blocks from Ghirardelli Square, you can make a quick trip over to Lombard Street and get in a little exercise. In fact, many of the locals use this street to get in their cardio for the day. Think of it like a man made StairMaster…just with beautiful scenery. It can be quite the workout on your legs.
On a normal day, it'll take you less than 15 minutes to drive down the street. If possible, try to park around it and just admire the beautiful flowers that blossom during the spring and summer. The residents are incredibly proud of their landscaping and love to show it off. The locals like to come out not only to see the landscaping, but also to watch the slew of tourists struggling at each of eight switchbacks that are set on Lombard's 40 degree slope. But really, it's just pure fun.
Getting There
Lombard Street is very easy to find. It begins at The Presidio and runs east through the Cow Hollow Neighborhood. It goes for about 12 blocks but isn't as crooked throughout the entire street as it is when it hits the one block on Russian Hill between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. This is where the fun really begins.
When you think of Ghirardelli you automatically think of chocolate. At least most women do! But Ghirardelli Square isn’t just about chocolate – although there is plenty of that to go around as well. Ghirardelli Square is about tradition and history and enjoyment. Whether you’ve lived in San Francisco your entire life or just recently moved to the city by the bay, Ghirardelli Square offers culture, cuisines, and incredible shopping all in one place.
Located on North Point Street between Larkin and Polk Streets, Ghirardelli Square is a stopping spot for many of the businesses in the area for a quick bite to eat, as well as a place to gather with friends and family on the weekend. With over 50 restaurants, galleries, and boutiques there is no shortage of enjoyment, especially when it comes to visiting the Ghirardelli Chocolate manufactory. If you haven’t had the thrill of taste testing and learning about one of the best chocolates in the world, you simply don’t know what you’re missing. The manufactory is open for different hours during the seasons so you need to call ahead to make sure they are taking tours the day you plan on arriving.
In September you can enjoy the Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival which brings in people to celebrate a very special cause, Project Open Hand. The money that is raised goes to this very special charity, and Ghirardelli is proud to be part of this annual tradition by bringing in some of the best chocolate delicacies from the Bay area to share with locals and tourists alike. In October you can enjoy the popular Fleet Week where you can watch the Blue Angels fly overhead in the most amazing aerial stunts you’ll ever see. It doesn’t matter which time of the year you visit this very diverse area of San Francisco, you’ll have a great time.
For the most fun you can just jump on the cable car that lets you off at Beach and Hyde Street and walk the quick block to Ghirardelli Square. From there you can shop at some of the "one of a kind" stores such as Fun Time, Glass Creations, and Lola of North Beach. For lunch or dinner you can partake in sumptuous meals at Cellar 360, Lori’s Diner, or Marche on the Square. Whether you’re looking for a dessert with the famous Ghirardelli hot fudge sauce or a more romantic dinner for two…you’ll certainly find what you are looking for in the square.
Ghirardelli Square is a very unique area of San Francisco that calls to both residents and tourists. The art galleries are some of the best in the city, and the boutiques are eclectic and fun to shop in. Ghirardelli Square has been around for more than 30 years and continues to be a landmark in the city – offering patrons everything from culinary delights to mouth watering chocolate treats.
Free and fun to do, Lombard Street in San Francisco has become one of the most popular tourist attractions around the city. But what about for the people who live here? Well, let's not lie…it's fun for them too.