After some very unscientific research, a Philly local recently concluded that the Rocky statue in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art may get more visitors than the museum itself. I’d be inclined to agree, given the amount of people always waiting in line to pose for a picture with Rocky, and running to the top of those iconic steps to raise their arms, champion-style. If I were to compose a “must do” list for Philly visitors, I’d include the Rocky statue, a run (or walk) up the museum steps, AND a visit to the museum. The museum’s collections include holdings from the medieval era to the present, with art and sculpture from Renaissance through modern, and one of the finest collections of American art in the country. Popular collections include Asian art, Impressionists, photography, and costumes and textiles. Those with more time after viewing the galleries in the main building can stroll through the outdoor sculpture garden, or take the shuttle to the annexed Perelman Building across the street. Anyone not interested in art should consider viewing the museum’s arms and armor, the second largest collection in the United States.

Admission is $20 and includes access for two consecutive days to the main museum building, the Perelman Building, the Rodin Museum (about 4 blocks away on the Ben Franklin Parkway), and Mount Pleasant (historic house in Fairmount Park maintained by the museum). On the first Sunday of each month, the admission fee is “pay what you wish” all day.