At first glance, it might just seem like a small neighborhood street in northern New Zealand—but Baldwin Street has gained global fame after being officially recognized by the Guinness World Records as “the steepest residential street in the world.” Since then, it has become one of the most sought-after check-in locations for travelers from all over the globe.
A Street Like No Other
Nestled in a quiet suburb of Dunedin on the South Island (not the North as sometimes misreported), Baldwin Street is only about 350 meters long, but what makes it so remarkable is its incredible incline of up to 19 degrees (about 35%). Seen from afar, it looks almost like a vertical line shooting straight up into the sky.
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Because of its extreme slope, the houses built along Baldwin Street are also tilted at curious angles, making them appear as though they’re sinking into the ground. Many tourists are amazed by the optical illusions, where everything—from houses and fences to mailboxes and trees—leans at a surreal angle.
A Tourist Magnet
This quirky and mind-bending location has become a must-visit for anyone exploring New Zealand’s South Island. Whether you’re standing at the bottom of the hill looking up or posing at the top with the houses seemingly leaning backward, the street offers dozens of creative photo opportunities.
Visitors love the experience of walking up or down the world’s steepest street, often joking that it feels like a workout and an adventure at the same time. Locals, however, are quite used to it and feel proud of their unique neighborhood. Every year, Baldwin Street even hosts a hill sprint competition, where runners dash from the bottom to the top in record times.
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How to Visit Baldwin Street
Getting to Baldwin Street is easy. It’s located in Dunedin, about a 2-hour drive from the city center of Queenstown, or accessible by local transportation from within Dunedin itself.
- Best time to visit: Early morning, when the lighting is ideal for photography and the street is less crowded.
- Top viewpoint: Stand at the top of the slope to capture a panoramic shot of the steep descent below—perfect for your social media feed!
Let’s take a look at some pictures of this unique tourist destination!
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Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a traveler looking for Instagrammable spots, or simply want to experience something out of the ordinary, Baldwin Street is a must-see destination in New Zealand. Don’t forget to bring your camera—and maybe a water bottle if you plan to walk up!
