Think you’ve done it all as a runner? Checked off every race on your list of the best races? Not so fast! There are still some of the best marathons in the US left to run.

Also, be sure to check out the best half marathons to run in the US in addition to this list.

Why Run a Marathon?

Running a marathon is an excellent way to challenge yourself both physically and mentally. It can also be a great way to raise money for charity or a cause that is important to you. There are many reasons why people choose to run marathons, but ultimately it is up to each individual runner to decide what motivates them to cross that finish line.

Some runners may enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a marathon, while others may use it as an opportunity to push themselves outside of their comfort zone. Whatever the reason, running a marathon can be a hugely rewarding experience.

If you’re thinking about taking on the challenge of running a marathon, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure you are physically prepared for the challenge. Marathon training is no joke, and if you’re not in shape, it can be dangerous. Running injuries such as shin splints are common when you begin running longer distances.

Secondly, be sure to have a solid plan in place. This means figuring out your route, your pacing, and what you need to do in order to complete the race. And finally, make sure you have a support system in place. Having friends or family cheering you on from the sidelines can make all the difference on race day.

So why run a marathon? The answer is different for everyone, but ultimately it boils down to personal challenge and satisfaction. If you’re up for the challenge, a marathon can be an excellent way to push yourself both physically and mentally.

Be sure to review How to Master Your Marathon Pacing Strategy. Then put on your running shoes and your best running watch and let’s go!

History of the Marathon

The marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42.2 kilometers) was established in 1908 when the Olympic Games were held in London. The race was intended to commemorate the fabled run of the Greek soldier Pheidippides, who is said to have delivered news of a victory at the Battle of Marathon back to Athens in 490 B.C. According to legend, Pheidippides ran the entire 40 kilometers from the battlefield to Athens without stopping, and then collapsed and died after uttering the word “Nike” (victory).

However, there is no evidence that Pheidippides actually ran such a long distance. The first recorded marathon race took place in 1896 during the first modern Olympic Games in Athens, Greece. The event was won by a Greek runner named Spyridon Louis.

Prior to 1908, the marathon distance was slightly different for every venue. The name simply meant “the long foot race” and that race might be a route of about “25 miles or 26 miles”. The marathon distance of 26.2 miles became the standard in 1908 when it was used for the Olympic Games in London.

The race has been held at every Olympics since then, with the exception of the 1912 Games in Stockholm, Sweden, when organizers decided to use a shorter distance of 24.85 miles (40 kilometers).

The marathon is now one of the most popular long-distance running events in the world, and certain marathons are considered “bucket list” races.

The Marathon Distance and Where It Fits In

For most people, the marathon distance is the longest race a runner can enter. It is an Olympic event, and the larger marathons are broadcast live on TV.

It’s an event that anyone, with proper training, can participate in.

	Fitness Level	Distance	Average Time
5k	Beginner	3.1 miles	30 minutes
10k	Intermediate	6.2 miles	1 hour
Half Marathon	Intermediate	13.1 miles	1:55 for men, 2:11 for women
Marathon	Advanced	26.2 miles	4:21 for men, 4:48 for women
Ultra Marathon	Insane	50k – 100 miles	Don’t know. Don’t wanna know.

Interested in what it takes to hit the average time? Check out the Marathon Pacing Chart.

The Best Marathons In the US

From historic races in big cities to out-of-the-way events with stunning scenery, we’ve got the scoop on the best marathons. So what are you waiting for – add these epic races to your running calendar and check them off your bucket list! Behold, the coolest marathons in the US!

Boston Marathon

April 21
Boston, MA

The Boston Marathon represents the epitome of marathon racing for many runners. It’s the only race that you can’t simply sign up for – you must qualify for it. Read this to see all the ways you can qualify to race the Boston Marathon.

The Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon having begun in 1897. It ranks as one of the world’s most prestigious road racing events.

It is traditionally held on Patriot’s Day every year – the third Monday in April (one of the best spring marathons). It is a point-to-point race that actually has a negative elevation gain (-459 feet) from start to finish.

The Boston Marathon crowd support surpasses 500,000 people every year and this is New England’s most-viewed sporting event. Thousands of people are lining the entire course from the start to the finish line.

The total entrant count is around 30,000 runners each year.

Weather Conditions

It varies but seems to be about 50 degrees and wet most of the time.

Why should this be on your bucket list?

Boston is considered the Holy Grail of marathons. It says you’re more than just a marathoner, you’re in a special class.

This race is also one of the World Marathon Majors (Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York City, Sydney). Finish all seven World Majors and become part of the Seven Star club.

New York City Marathon

November 3
New York City, NY

The New York City Marathon is one of the most popular marathons in the world. Every year, over 50,000 people compete in the race and it’s broadcast live on television across the world. It is another World Marathon Major in the United States (along with Boston and Chicago).

The race was first held in 1970 and is typically on the first Sunday in November. Read this to see all the ways you can qualify to race the New York City Marathon.

Today, runners start in Staten Island and immediately tackle the largest climb of the race – the  Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. They continue through the four other main boroughs (Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, and Manhattan) before finishing in Central Park.

The New York City Marathon is a world-famous race that attracts runners from all over the globe. You will line up next to Olympic athletes, celebrities, and of course, the best professional marathon runners on earth. Together you will run past some of the most famous sites in the world and will probably meet some great people along the way.

Participation is held by lottery every year, which is typically held in February. In recent years, there have been over 100,000 applicants.

Whether you love or hate New York, everyone has to do the New York City Marathon at least once. It’s an epic day with crazy crowd support especially all the way to the finish line.

Weather Conditions

It varies but seems to be about 45 – 50 degrees most years.

Why should this be on your bucket list?

It’s the largest marathon in the world, in one of the biggest cities in the world. Plus you might get to be on TV.

Chicago Marathon

October 13
Chicago, IL

The Chicago Marathon appears to be the fastest of the US-based World Marathon Majors. It’s flat and fast and October weather in Chicago can be favorable for fast times. Be careful about going in with too much ego though, as the midwest weather can become rather balmy later in the race.

You’ll run past Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) and about a million other sites that you’ve seen on TV. Going through China Town is one of my favorites as the sites and smells are a welcome distraction.

Crowd support is awesome, although there are a few sections that do not have any spectators. Between miles 13 and 14 seem to not have any people at all. It’s a little strange since it’s tranquil during that period and then gets loud again with spectators cheering on the sidelines. It’s really a strange sensation.

This race has also gone to the lottery entrance system since it has become super popular. The lottery entrance period is typically in early November. There are about 85,000 lottery entrants for a total of 40,000 spots.

Read all of the ways to qualify for the Chicago Marathon.

Weather Conditions

It varies a lot but seems to be about 60 to 75 degrees.

Why should this be on your bucket list?

It’s a course you can PR on thanks to the pancake flat course, and you’ll love seeing the many different sections of Chicago. It’s the third World Marathon Major located within the United States, so you will be halfway to the Six Star club after this!

Walt Disney World Marathon

January 12
Orlando, Florida

The Walt Disney World Marathon is part of Disney’s “Marathon Weekend” which has an event for nearly every running distance over the course of 4 days. Race weekend has something for everyone.

I’d definitely put this event as a “fun” race since runners are encouraged to dress up as their favorite Disney character. Many do this, but it’s not required.

The course is very flat and goes in and out of all the Walt Disney World theme parks (Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios). You’ll see a little bit of each park without the massive crowds. It’s a great way to see each park with 12,000 other runners.

Disney characters (Disney park employees) are everywhere on the course, and participants will often stop mid-race to take photos with their favorite characters. Make sure you’re aware of this tradition so you don’t plow into a group of stopped runners taking a selfie with Goofy.

This race sells out fairly quickly, so be ready to enter when registration opens up – usually in April.

Weather Conditions

Typically about 60 to 75 degrees. Orlando can be humid though, even in January. Make sure you acclimatize for the heat if it’s cold in your location.

Why should this be on your bucket list?

As if you actually need a reason to go to Disney World, there’s a fantastic marathon in January for you. It’s fun, the weather is typically nice, and everyone has a favorite Disney character they’ll want to take a photo with.

Marine Corps Marathon

October 27
Washington, DC

The Marine Corps Marathon is awesome. It starts and ends in Arlington, VA at the Marine Corps War Memorial. However, most of the course is throughout Washington DC. The US Marines do an impeccable job of organizing everything on a very scenic course.

The Marine Corps Marathon is one of the largest marathons in the US. It is commonly referred to as “the best marathon for beginners”, the MCM is the largest marathon in the world that doesn’t offer prize money, hence the nickname, “The People’s Marathon.”

The flat course has a few hills thrown in the early miles before leveling off after mile 5. You’ll pass many historic sites (such as the Lincoln Memorial) during the race that you can go back and visit later. The finish is alongside Arlington National Cemetery, giving the race a deep emotional connection.

This race sells out very quickly and has about 30,000 runners each year. Seriously, this is one that you don’t want to miss. Plus it’s a Boston qualifier if that is also in your future!

Weather Conditions

Typically between 50 to 75 degrees. Possible rain.

Why should this be on your bucket list?

The US Marines do a fantastic job of organizing this race. There are a ton of Marines encouraging you throughout the course and screaming “Take that hill” which will leave you with goosebumps.

After the race, you can tour Washington DC to take in the history of the United States.

Pikes Peak Marathon

September 22
Manitou Springs, CO

The Pikes Peak Marathon, founded in 1956, is the third oldest marathon in the United States, taking runners from Manitou Springs, Colorado, to the summit of Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet, and back down for a total of 26.2 grueling mountain miles.

It climbs about 7,800 vertical feet up the historic Barr Trail on the east face of the mountain. This trail is very narrow and makes passing nearly impossible. Many people sprint to the trailhead in order to get ahead of people, but use that strategy wisely. Don’t blow yourself up and be the reason for a logjam.

The trail is often narrow, and winding, and may contain gravel, rocks, or dirt with sharp turns and abrupt changes in elevation or direction. There are very few sections that are not going uphill, and the average gradient is 11%.

The ascent to the peak often takes people longer than a full marathon on flatland would. As mentioned, this is not an easy course.