The Rocky Philadelphia Bus Tour is stepping up its game this summer with a brand-new stop that packs even more Philly flavor into the fan-favorite experience.
Starting this season, the Saturday afternoon tour will include a lunch break and storytelling session at the iconic Pat’s King of Steaks in the Italian Market — adding a delicious new layer to the journey through Rocky Balboa’s legendary stomping grounds.
“Nearly every day of the year we greet passionate Rocky fans from around the world, excited to experience the real Philadelphia locations featured in the Rocky films,” said Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation’s Maita Soukup. “This tour gives fans the perfect taste of Rocky’s Philadelphia, and the real life stories, businesses, and sporting legends who inspired, and were inspired by, this iconic Philadelphia film franchise.”
A tour fit for a champ
Every Saturday, running at 10 a.m. and again at 1 p.m., the Rocky Bus Tour begins at the Rocky Shop, where you can purchase exclusive merchandise. The shop is located near the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and offers guests the opportunity to do their best Balboa impression up the legendary staircase and even capture their triumphant moment atop the steps.
The tour then takes its passengers on an unforgettable journey through some of the franchise’s most memorable landmarks, including the fictional gravesites of Adrian and Paulie, found at Laurel Hill Cemetery, and Mighty Mick’s Gym. The tour also explores the many surrounding neighborhood locations before returning to where the tour began for one more visit to the store, to see the statue, or possibly atop the steps if you’re feeling spry.
New to the 1 p.m. tour is a stop within Philadelphia’s Italian Market on 9th Street, where the journey will pause for lunch and a storytelling break at Pat’s King of Steaks. The cost of lunch is not included in the tour, but your ticket will provide you with a gift card for $5 off your meal.
A lasting legacy
Balboa remains undefeated in Philadelphia. His boxing record may not be perfect, officially tallied at 57 wins (54 by KO), 24 losses, and one draw, but the fictitious fighter will always be a champion in Philly and a symbol of the city’s fighting spirit. City natives and tourists alike have loved celebrating the fictitious fighter through various outings like RockyFest, which debuted the tour back in 2024 and became an instant staple attraction within the city.
To purchase tickets or for more tour details, visit phlvisitorcenter.com
