Exploring the Philadelphia Museum of Art: More Than Just the Rocky Steps

When most people think of the Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA), their minds immediately go to one iconic cinematic moment: Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa, triumphantly raising his fists after sprinting up the museum’s grand staircase.

While running the "Rocky Steps" is an absolute must-do for any visitor to the City of Brotherly Love, what lies behind those massive bronze doors is even more spectacular. As one of the largest and most renowned art museums in the United States, the PMA holds nearly 240,000 objects that span 2,000 years of human creativity.

Whether you are an art aficionado, a history buff, or just looking for the best things to do in Philadelphia, here is your ultimate guide to exploring this cultural powerhouse.

Conquering the Famous "Rocky Steps"

Before you even buy a ticket, you are treated to one of the most famous tourist attractions in Pennsylvania. The 72 stone steps leading up to the museum's East Entrance offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the Philadelphia skyline.

At the bottom of the steps, tucked away to the right, you'll find the bronze Rocky Statue. Originally created for Rocky III, this statue has become a permanent fixture and a favorite photo op. Snap a picture with the champ, run to the top of the stairs, and take a moment to soak in the view before heading inside.

What to See Inside: A Global Art Collection

The museum's architecture—a stunning Greek Revival building completed in 1928—is a masterpiece in itself. But the true magic happens in the galleries. The collection is vast, so it’s best to go in with a game plan. Here are the highlights you shouldn't miss:

1. Impressionist and Post-Impressionist Marvels

The museum boasts one of the most impressive collections of Impressionist art in the country. You can stand face-to-face with legendary works like Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Paul Cézanne’s The Large Bathers. You’ll also find breathtaking pieces by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas.

2. The Marcel Duchamp Collection

For fans of modern and contemporary art, the PMA is a pilgrimage site. It holds the world’s largest collection of works by Marcel Duchamp, a pioneer of Dadaism. His controversial and groundbreaking piece Fountain (the famous urinal) and his massive, enigmatic installation The Bride Stripped Bare by Her Bachelors, Even (The Large Glass) are on permanent display.

3. Historic Architectural Reconstructions

Unlike many museums that just hang art on walls, the Philadelphia Museum of Art immerses you in history. The museum features several full-scale architectural structures built right into the galleries. You can walk through a 16th-century Indian temple hall, wander into a Japanese teahouse, or marvel at a reconstructed medieval French cloister.

4. American Art and History

Given Philadelphia’s role as the birthplace of the United States, it’s no surprise that the museum has a stellar collection of American art. Expect to see early American furniture, stunning silver crafted by Paul Revere, and iconic portraits by Thomas Eakins and Charles Willson Peale.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Planning a trip to the PMA? Here is what you need to know to make the most of your visit:

• Plan for at least 3 hours: The museum is massive. You won’t be able to see everything in one day, so grab a map at the front desk and prioritize the wings that interest you most.
• Pay-What-You-Wish Days: If you are traveling on a budget, the museum offers "Pay What You Wish" admission on the first Sunday of every month and every Friday night from 5:00 PM to 8:45 PM.
• Check Out the Perelman Building: Your admission ticket usually includes access to the Ruth and Raymond G. Perelman Building just across the street. It houses incredible collections of prints, photographs, and stunning fashion and textile exhibits.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking—not just up the front steps, but across the museum’s 200 galleries.

The Bottom Line

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a testament to global culture and human ingenuity. While Rocky might bring you to the front steps, the astonishing art inside will make you want to stay. The next time you find yourself in Philly, skip the quick photo-and-run and step inside—you won't regret it.