TL;DR
- PEG showcases Philadelphia’s erotic art and history.
- The gallery promotes inclusivity for all sexualities.
- Monthly events foster community and creativity.
- Entry is $12, with free access to the gift shop.
- PEG aims to inspire healthier relationships with sexuality.
Welcome to the Philadelphia Erotic Gallery and Sex Museum, affectionately known as PEG, where the past meets the present in a whirlwind of sex, art, and community. Opened in December 2025, this unique space is the first of its kind in the city, and it’s not just a museum; it’s a celebration of all things sexy in Philadelphia. Rainy day? No problem! My friend and I found ourselves lost in a world of interactive exhibits, including a giant pink vulva you can stick your face in and a diorama of balls just waiting to be caressed. Talk about a fun day out!
PEG is more than just a collection of erotic art; it’s a vibrant communal space that emphasizes inclusivity, showcasing the diverse sexual cultures of the city. With four rooms filled with everything from historical ephemera to contemporary art, PEG offers a fascinating glimpse into the erotic history of Philadelphia. Over 80 artists are featured here, ensuring that every visitor can see themselves represented in the art. As artist Stevie Laney puts it, “I want to be able to draw anything and anyone in the way they want to be seen.”
One of the standout features of PEG is its commitment to preserving LGBTQ history. Among the framed artifacts is a flyer for a meet-the-author event at the Gay Community Center from 1980, promoting the memoir Barry and Alice: Portrait of a Bisexual Marriage. This kind of representation is crucial, especially since bisexual history is often overlooked. At PEG, every story matters and every identity is celebrated.
But it’s not all just about looking; PEG encourages visitors to engage and interact. The gallery features a rotating exhibition room and an interactive “please touch” anatomy room that invites curiosity and playfulness. Laney hopes that by creating a space where sexuality is openly discussed, people will develop a healthier relationship with their own bodies and desires. “This whole subject of sexuality, body positivity, nudity in general is very uncomfortable for a lot of people,” she explains. “We want to have fun with it.”
And if you’re thinking of taking home a piece of the action, PEG has you covered. The gift shop offers a variety of erotic art and novelties, from jewelry to greeting cards, all designed to keep the spirit of the gallery alive long after your visit. Plus, the museum hosts monthly events like film screenings, figure drawing classes, and open mics, making it a hub for creativity and community connection.
Located on South Street, a historically LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood, PEG has received immense support from the community. Laney and her partner, Tobias Olson, envision expanding the space even further, potentially adding a café to make PEG a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike. “We want to build our own little community center in this space,” Laney says, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
As anti-LGBTQ sentiments rise across the country, PEG stands as a beacon of hope and resistance, preserving the art and history of sexual cultures that have long been marginalized. “We’re just trying to preserve it and make sure it’s out there for people to see,” Laney asserts. So whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to stop by PEG and experience the sexy side of Philadelphia for yourself. You might just find a new favorite spot to explore your wild side!
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