Top 10 Marathons in the US
Hi, I’m Emily and I’m a marathon runner. I’ve been running marathons for the past 10 years and I’ve had the pleasure of participating in some of the best marathons in the US. In this article, I’ll be sharing with you my top 10 favorite marathons in the US.
Curiosities, Top Statistics, and Interesting Information
- The Boston Marathon is the oldest marathon in the US, first run in 1897.
- The New York City Marathon is the largest marathon in the world, with over 50,000 finishers in 2019.
- The Chicago Marathon is known for its fast and flat course, making it a popular race for runners attempting to qualify for the Boston Marathon.
- The Marine Corps Marathon is known as The People’s Marathon, and is one of the largest marathons that doesn’t offer prize money.
- The Honolulu Marathon is the only major marathon in the US that is held in December, making it a popular destination race for those looking to escape the winter cold.
My Top 10 Favorite Marathons in the US
These are my personal favorite marathons in the US, based on my experiences running them and the overall atmosphere of the race.
1. Boston Marathon
The Boston Marathon is the most prestigious marathon in the US, and for good reason. The course is challenging, with the infamous Heartbreak Hill at mile 20, but the energy of the crowd and the history of the race make it an unforgettable experience. I ran the Boston Marathon in 2018 and it was the most difficult but rewarding race I’ve ever run.
2. New York City Marathon
The New York City Marathon is a bucket-list race for many runners, and for good reason. The course takes you through all five boroughs of New York City, with millions of spectators cheering you on. I ran this race in 2015 and it was an incredible experience.
3. Chicago Marathon
The Chicago Marathon is known for its fast and flat course, making it a popular race for runners attempting to qualify for the Boston Marathon. The course takes you through some of the most iconic neighborhoods in Chicago, and the energy of the crowd is electric. I ran this race in 2016 and it was one of my fastest marathons.
4. Marine Corps Marathon
The Marine Corps Marathon is known as The People’s Marathon, and for good reason. The course takes you through some of the most iconic landmarks in Washington D.C., including the National Mall and the Arlington Cemetery. The support from the Marines and the spectators is incredible, and the finish line at the Marine Corps War Memorial is unforgettable. I ran this race in 2014 and it was one of the most patriotic races I’ve ever run.
5. Honolulu Marathon
The Honolulu Marathon is the only major marathon in the US that is held in December, making it a popular destination race for those looking to escape the winter cold. The course takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of Honolulu, including Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. The aloha spirit is alive and well in Hawaii, and the finish line at Kapiolani Park is a party. I ran this race in 2019 and it was a great way to end the year.
6. Big Sur International Marathon
The Big Sur International Marathon takes you along one of the most scenic courses in the US, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Mountains. The course is challenging, with some steep hills, but the beauty of the course makes it worth it. I ran this race in 2017 and it was one of the most beautiful races I’ve ever run.
7. Walt Disney World Marathon
The Walt Disney World Marathon is a fun and festive race, with Disney characters and entertainment along the course. The course takes you through all four Disney parks in Florida, and the finish line at Epcot is magical. I ran this race in 2013 and it was a great way to combine my love of running and Disney.
8. Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon
The Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon is a unique race, with the course taking you down the iconic Las Vegas Strip at night. The energy of the crowd and the lights of the casinos make for an unforgettable experience. I ran this race in 2018 and it was a fun way to experience Las Vegas.
9. Grandma’s Marathon
Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, Minnesota, is a hidden gem of a race. The course takes you along the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior, with stunning views of the lake and the fall foliage. The small-town feel of the race and the supportive community make it a special experience. I ran this race in 2019 and it was a great way to experience the beauty of Minnesota.
10. Austin Marathon
The Austin Marathon is a fun and energetic race, with live music and entertainment along the course. The course takes you through some of the most iconic neighborhoods in Austin, and the finish line at the Texas State Capitol is a great photo opp. I ran this race in 2017 and it was a great way to experience the vibrant city of Austin.
FAQs
What is the Boston Marathon?
The Boston Marathon is the oldest annual marathon in the world, first run in 1897. It is also one of the six World Marathon Majors, along with the New York City Marathon, the Chicago Marathon, the Tokyo Marathon, the London Marathon, and the Berlin Marathon.
What is the New York City Marathon?
The New York City Marathon is the largest marathon in the world, with over 50,000 finishers in 2019. It takes place annually on the first Sunday of November and takes runners through all five boroughs of New York City.
What is the Marine Corps Marathon?
The Marine Corps Marathon is an annual marathon held in Arlington, Virginia and Washington D.C. It is known as The People’s Marathon and is one of the largest marathons that doesn’t offer prize money. The course takes runners through some of the most iconic landmarks in the nation’s capital.
How do I train for a marathon?
Training for a marathon takes time, dedication, and a lot of hard work. It’s important to have a solid training plan that gradually builds up your mileage and includes speed work and long runs. It’s also important to listen to your body and rest when you need to. Consider hiring a coach or joining a running group for support and accountability.
What should I eat before and after a marathon?
Before a marathon, it’s important to eat a meal that is high in carbohydrates and low in fat and fiber. This could include pasta, rice, or a bagel with peanut butter. After a marathon, it’s important to refuel with a meal that includes protein and carbohydrates. This could include a turkey sandwich, a smoothie with protein powder, or a chicken stir-fry with rice.
What should I wear for a marathon?
It’s important to wear comfortable clothing that you’ve trained in before. This could include a moisture-wicking shirt, shorts or leggings, and comfortable running shoes. It’s also important to dress for the weather, with layers if it’s cold or rain gear if it’s wet.
How do I prevent injuries while training for a marathon?
It’s important to listen to your body and take rest days when you need to. Incorporating strength training and stretching into your training plan can also help prevent injuries. It’s also important to wear appropriate shoes and replace them every 300-500 miles.
What if I can’t finish a marathon?
It’s important to listen to your body and prioritize your health. If you can’t finish a marathon, it’s okay. There will be other races and opportunities to try again. It’s important to celebrate the effort and hard work that you put in, regardless of the outcome.