🌸✨San Francisco's Iconic "Crookedest Street" Captured in 1975

Step into a time capsule with this vintage snapshot of Lombard Street, San Francisco’s world-famous "Crookedest Street"—a winding marvel that has charmed visitors since 1922! 🚗💫 Known for its eight hairpin turns, this street isn’t just a road—it’s a postcard-perfect masterpiece blending engineering genius with floral splendor. 🌺🏗️ 🌼 A Twisting Tale of Innovation & Beauty Built for Safety: Originally, Lombard Street’s 27% natural slope was too steep for cars! 🚨📉 Property owner Carl Henry proposed the zigzag design in 1922 to slow traffic and prevent accidents. The result? A one-way, red-brick road with a 5 mph speed limit that’s as fun to drive as it is to photograph! 🚙🎢 Floral Transformation: Believe it or not, Lombard Street wasn’t always a blooming paradise! 🌿📆 It wasn’t until the 1960s—decades after its construction—that hydrangea bushes were planted, turning it into the Instagram-worthy gem we know today. Now, vibrant flowers cascade year-round, making every visit a colorful celebration! 🎨🌸 📸 Best Ways to Experience Lombard Street Top-Down View: Stand at the summit and marvel at the panoramic vista of San Francisco Bay, the Bay Bridge, and Coit Tower—all framed by lush greenery! 🌉🏙️ Bottom-Up Adventure: Walk or drive up the curves (slowly!) and snap dramatic photos looking back at the steep descent. 🚶‍♀️📷 Surrounding Splendor: The street is nestled among Russian Hill mansions and meticulously landscaped gardens, adding to its fairy-tale charm. 🏡🌳 💡 Fun Facts & Pro Tips Postcard Perfect: Lombard Street only became a global sensation after hydrangeas were added in the ’60s. Before that? Just a steep, twisty road! 😉🌺 Peak Bloom: Visit in spring or summer for the most vibrant flowers, though hydrangeas often bloom into fall! 🍂🌸 Parking Challenge: Street parking is limited—consider taking a cable car or rideshare! 🚎🚖 #SanFranciscoHistory #CrookedestStreet #FlowerPower