Rocky 1976 Movie Filming Locations - Now and Then Photos

For as long as I can remember I have been a fan of the Rocky movies. Growing up with a brother who was a very talented boxer and my father who was a boxing coach – the sport of boxing was always a part of my life growing up.

The rocky movies have inspired me and motivated me through the years through my personal fitness journey, and they have entertained me for many many decades.

When I made a trip to Philadelphia in the Spring of 2024, I set aside time to visit a few key sites from the Rocky movie franchise.

The Rocky House - Philadelphia - 0:47
The Rocky house, located at 1818 Tusculum Street in the Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia, is an iconic symbol of the city’s rich cinematic history. Made famous by Sylvester Stallone’s portrayal of the fictional boxer Rocky Balboa in the “Rocky” film series, the house has become a pilgrimage site for fans of the movies.

The house itself is a modest two-story brick rowhouse typical of the area, standing in stark contrast to the grandeur of other movie landmarks. However, its significance lies in its representation of the underdog spirit that Rocky embodies. Visitors come from all over the world to see the place where Rocky trained and to run up the steps of the nearby Philadelphia Museum of Art, just as he famously did in the films.

Mighty Micks Gym - Philadelphia - 0:32
Mighty Mick’s Gym, another iconic location from the “Rocky” film series, is a fictional boxing gym at 2147 N Front St, Philadelphia where Rocky Balboa trained under the tutelage of his trainer and mentor, Mickey Goldmill. While the gym itself is not a real location, its portrayal in the films has left a lasting impression on fans and has become a symbol of gritty, no-nonsense training.

In the films, Mighty Mick’s Gym is depicted as a run-down, old-school boxing gym, reflecting the tough and gritty nature of the sport. Despite its humble appearance, the gym is where Rocky honed his skills and trained for his legendary fights, embodying the spirit of determination and hard work. The gym has become a symbol of the underdog mentality that Rocky represents, inspiring many to push beyond their limits and pursue their dreams.

The Rocky Statue - 0:01
The Rocky Statue, also known as the Rocky Balboa Statue, is an iconic bronze statue located at the base of the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The statue was commissioned for the filming of “Rocky III” in 1980 and was originally intended to be a temporary prop. However, due to its popularity with fans of the “Rocky” film series, the statue was relocated several times before finding its permanent home at the museum.

The statue depicts the fictional boxer Rocky Balboa, played by Sylvester Stallone, in a triumphant pose with his arms raised in victory. The pose is inspired by a scene from the first “Rocky” film, where Rocky runs up the steps of the museum as part of his training regimen. The statue has become a symbol of perseverance and determination, embodying the spirit of the underdog that Rocky represents.

Over the years, the Rocky Statue has become a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Philadelphia’s spirit and resilience. It has been featured in numerous photographs, films, and television shows, further cementing its place in popular culture. Today, the statue stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the “Rocky” film series and its impact on audiences around the world.

The Rocky Stairs - 0:59
The Rocky Steps, officially known as the “Art Museum Steps,” are a famous set of stairs located in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The steps gained worldwide fame after they were featured in the film “Rocky,” where the titular character, Rocky Balboa, famously ran up them as part of his training regimen. The scene has since become one of the most iconic moments in cinematic history, with visitors from around the world flocking to the museum to recreate the run themselves.

The steps consist of a total of 72 stone steps, which lead up to the museum’s main entrance. At the top of the steps, visitors are treated to a stunning view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the Philadelphia skyline, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The steps have become a symbol of perseverance and determination, with many people using them as a personal fitness challenge or as a way to test their own limits.

In addition to their pop culture significance, the Rocky Steps have also become an important part of Philadelphia’s cultural heritage. The steps are a popular spot for events and gatherings, including fitness classes, races, and even marriage proposals. They have been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing their place in popular culture. Today, the Rocky Steps continue to be a beloved landmark in Philadelphia, attracting visitors from around the world who come to pay homage to one of cinema’s most iconic moments.