Philadelphia’s unique museums and historic sites are a huge part of the city’s character (along with our food and sports fandom, of course). From medical oddities to rare books, there are institutions dedicated to many different interests.
Maybe the quirkiest museum we’ve found so far is on North 8th Street inside an austere building that is part of the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. Temple’s Shoe Museum has about 1000 shoes spread across 2 corridors. Ancient sandals, protective boots, and celebrities’ footwear all have a place here.
Shoes from ancient Egypt to South Philly
The exhibit begins as you might expect at a medical school—with an anatomy lesson. A book that shows the internal structure of the foot is propped next to a shoe that is strategically cut open and pulled apart to show its different pieces. Curious about heel support or how shoes are shaped? Then this part of the exhibit is for you.
Another case of shoes expands on the topic a bit by showing footwear designed to protect in different professions like policemen, firefighters, and scuba divers who have specific needs. As a scuba diver, I found the dive boots particularly terrifying. Weighing in at 23 pounds each, the description said they were designed to keep divers “anchored to the sea floor” (that would be a bad thing). Fortunately, it also specifies that they’re not used today.
From Lucille Ball’s pink silk heels to Nancy Reagan’s elegant pumps, there are some famous names in the collection, but the real stars are Philly’s own. Sixers legend Dr. J and famed basketball coach Dawn Staley both have their shoes on display here as does heavyweight boxing great Joe Frazier. If you’ve ever wanted to see the Phanatic’s giant green boots up close or are curious about the Mummers’ golden slippers, make sure to stop here.
The second hallway has a fascinating look at shoes from around the world and through history. The oldest ones we noticed were burial sandals from ancient Egypt that are estimated at around 2200 years old. Uncomfortable-looking rope shoes from the Himalayas, Dutch clogs, and brightly-colored boots from Bhutan showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of cultures around the world.
One particularly thought-provoking area examines the history of Chinese footbinding and includes a selection of shoes worn by women with bound feet. Info panels note the historical context of the agonizing practice and describe how it was physically done. If you’re sensitive to information like this, it may be best to gloss over this section. While the shoes are beautiful, it’s impossible to look at them without thinking of the substantial pain and disability associated with a grown woman fitting her feet into doll-sized slippers.
How to visit
The museum is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm and is free to visit.
The process of visiting is easy but a little unexpected.
Right inside the building’s front door is a security desk. Tell the attendant you would like to visit the museum. You’ll be asked to sign in and will receive a lanyard to wear that identifies you as a visitor. Mine was a green foot.
You’ll go through an interior door to find the elevators directly in front of you. Take the elevator to the 6th floor. When you get off the elevator, the display cases are immediately apparent. I had expected a dedicated room, signage, or an attendant, but it was just me and the cases of shoes.
Some displays have QR codes that are meant to provide additional information, but we found many of the links did not work. The info panels had enough description.
Is visiting worth it?
Temple’s Shoe Museum is a perfect example of what makes Philadelphia unique. It’s unexpected and quirky while being educational and offering just enough focus on the city to make it relevant. Most people will only need about 45 minutes to see the collection, so it’s worth it if you have the time.