"Yo Adrian!" - Rocky Balboa

One of the greatest underdog stories of our time is the “Rocky” movies. Rocky’s ability to defy all odds and never surrender even when the going gets touch reflects the culture of Philadelphia. People of Philadelphia are able to relate to the character of Rocky as everyone has struggled at times to achieve their goals in life. Rocky came from nothing and displayed how hard work really does pay off in the end.

This brings me to my next must-see in the Fairmount/Art Museum Area, the Rocky Balboa Statue. Located at the base of the steps of the Art Museum stands the statue of Rocky raising his hands in the air celebrating his victory. Everyday tourists come to take their picture posing as Rocky and run up the steps of the Art Museum just as Rocky did to train for his fights.

We are fortunate to still be able to see the statue as many art critics did not want it to be at the Art Museum. They felt it was a movie prop and should be taken down since it is not real art work. However, a compromise was reached to put it at the base of the Art Museum steps.

Therefore, if you have some time, a working camera, and the stamina to run up the steps of the Art Museum without giving yourself a heart attack, definitely check out the Rocky Balboa Statue and experience some of the Philly culture.