Find Hotels Near Rocky Statue Philadelphia

The Rocky Statue in Philadelphia is an iconic landmark and one of the defining symbols of the City of Brotherly Love. Located at the bottom of Philadelphia’s famous Art Museum steps, the bronze statue was created by A. Thomas Schomberg, a sculptor from New York City. The statue, which stands nine-feet tall, depicts Sylvester Stallone’s character in the 1976 movie Rocky Balboa running up the Art Museum Steps. Unveiled on November 18th 1980 by Stallone himself, it has become a symbol of perseverance and determination for Philadelphians, who over decades have gathered together here to celebrate important moments in their lives as well as partake in impromptu jogs up the famous steps.

The Rocky Statue is also seen as an inspirational place for sports fans from around the world. Many tourists come here to take pictures with this beloved monument and often leave behind small tokens or trinkets commemorating their visit. Each year on Thanksgiving morning many individuals join together to recreate Rocky’s movie scene run up the steps accompanied by violin players serenading them with ‘Gonna Fly Now’, a classic track from the movie soundtrack. There are other special events and activities held around it like flash mobs and dance routines that honor and pay homage to this beloved symbol of Philly pride.

The Rocky Statue is made entirely out of bronze and weighs 2,000 pounds – which was quite heavy considering it had to be transported from New York to Philadelphia for its installation! In addition to its official unveiling back in 1980 there have been several other public appearances since then including when Stallone brought it along with him during his Oscar speech after winning Best Screenplay for ‘Rocky’; when he unveiled a wax work replica at Madame Tussauds; and when Pope John Paul II blessed it during his trip to America in 1979. Even today it remains one of Philadelphians most beloved landmarks!