Rocky Statue to Relocate to Philadelphia Art Museum Steps

The Philadelphia Art Commission has voted to relocate the iconic Rocky statue from its current position at the bottom of the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps to the top, where it will be permanently installed. This decision, made on January 14, 2026, follows months of discussions among city officials, art commissioners, and the public. The statue, originally unveiled in 1982 as part of the film "Rocky III," will first be displayed indoors as part of an exhibition titled "Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments" from April 25 to August 2, 2026. It will then be installed at its new location in August 2026, nearly 14 feet above the steps.

Rocky Statue Finds New Home Atop Philadelphia’s Art Museum StepsWPVI - Philadelphia - Action NewsWJZ - CBS BaltimoreThe IndependentRocky Statue Finds New Home Atop Philadelphia Art Museum StepsPatch

The Rocky statue has become a beloved symbol of Philadelphia, attracting over four million visitors annually. Valerie Gay, Chief Cultural Officer for the city, emphasized that the statue has evolved from being viewed as a mere movie prop to a cultural touchstone that reflects the city's values and spirit. The statue's original placement at the top of the steps is seen as essential to its meaning, as it represents the triumph of the fictional boxer Rocky Balboa.

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The decision to move the statue has elicited mixed reactions from the community. Supporters argue that the relocation restores the statue to its intended position, enhancing its visibility and significance. Marguerite Anglin, public art director for Philadelphia, stated, "The steps and the statue are inseparable." Conversely, some locals, including James Resnick, expressed disappointment, preferring the statue's current location for its grounding effect. Resnick remarked, "I would say leave it where it is because it represents the iconic mess... it keeps you grounded and keeps you humble."

The Independent

Concerns regarding accessibility have been raised, as not all visitors can easily climb the museum's 72 steps. In response, city officials have announced plans for a wheelchair-accessible shuttle service to transport visitors between the bottom and top of the steps.

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Mayor Cherelle Parker highlighted the statue's cultural significance, stating, "Far more than a movie prop, the Rocky Statue has grown into a cultural touchstone." The Art Commission has also committed to future engagement opportunities regarding the statue's interpretation, particularly its historical context. Matthew Jordan-Miller Kenyatta, a commission member, noted the importance of reflecting local history in the statue's narrative.

Billy Penn

As the relocation process unfolds, the statue's temporary exhibit in the museum will allow visitors to appreciate its significance in a new context. The final installation at the top of the steps is anticipated to enhance visitor engagement, making it a prominent feature for photography and interaction.

Rocky Statue Finds New Home Atop Philadelphia Art Museum Steps

• “The image of the Rocky Balboa, arms lifted in triumph at the top of the steps, has become one of the most instantly recognizable symbols of Philadelphia,” — Mayor Cherelle Parker

Billy Penn

• “The public will decide ultimately how successful this is, but what we have the opportunity now with this move is to create different stories to create different opportunities for people to tell their story to enliven the art that is all around us that most people don’t see,” — Valerie Gay, Chief Cultural Officer

The Independent

• “I think that it’s excellent and it’s going to be some actual art here and I think people will come and still take pictures with it and its progress,” — Tramar Roberts

The Independent

This relocation marks a significant moment for both the statue and Philadelphia's cultural landscape, promising to enhance its role in the city's rich history.

Rocky Statue Finds New Home Atop Philadelphia Art Museum Steps