Marathons in North America
From the lively streets of New York and Chicago to coastal routes in California and scenic races across Canada, North America hosts some of the world’s most diverse and memorable marathon events. Every race comes with its own atmosphere, big-city crowds, ocean views, or mountain backdrops.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or planning a destination race weekend, choosing the right place to stay can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Below you’ll find an overview of the most popular marathons in the United States and Canada, including hotel suggestions close to start and finish areas, runner-friendly neighborhoods, and practical travel tips.
Boston Marathon
Participants: +30,000
Historic, point-to-point race ending near Copley Square. Best areas: Back Bay or Copley Square.
Chicago Marathon
Participants: +50,000
Flat, fast loop through 29 neighborhoods. Stay near to Grant Park for easy start/finish access.
New York Marathon
Participants: +50,000
World-famous course through all five boroughs, finishing in Central Park. Stay near Midtown or Upper West Side.
Los Angeles Marathon
Participants: +25,000
A scenic point-to-point race with mostly mild weather. Good areas: Santa Monica or Downtown LA.
Toronto Marathon
Participants: +30,000
Flat, harbour-side run with great PB potential. Stay near Harbourfront or Financial District.
Marine Corps Marathon
Historic course past major monuments. Stay near Rosslyn or National Mall. (Washington, D.C.)
Honolulu Marathon
Participants: +35,000
Scenic tropical race with relaxed atmosphere; no time limit. Stay in Waikiki near the start area.
Philadelphia Marathon
Participants: +35,000
A fast, scenic route past historic Center City and riverfront paths. Stay near Center City or Logan Square for easy access.
Miami Marathon
A vibrant coastal race with warm temperatures and skyline views. Stay in Downtown Miami or South Beach.
Planning a marathon trip across the United States or Canada is easy, but there are a few details that differ from European events. Here are practical tips to help you prepare for race weekend:
1) Expo pickup is usually mandatory
Most US and Canadian races require runners to collect their bib in person with a government ID, often no proxy pickup.
Plan extra time for the expo.
2) Hotels near transport = big advantage
While NYC and Chicago have strong transit systems, cities like Los Angeles and Houston are more spread out.
Book close to metro/bus lines or near the finish area to avoid long travel on race morning.
3) Book early — especially for majors
Major races such as New York, Boston and Chicago sell out nearby hotels months in advance.
Prices rise quickly as race day approaches.
4) Weather varies widely by region
Spring can be cold in the northern US and Canada, while winter races in Florida or California are warm and sunny.
Check forecasts carefully and pack layers.
5) Early start times
Many North American marathons start very early (6–8 a.m.) to manage traffic and heat.
Runners often choose hotels offering early breakfast or food-to-go.
6) Domestic flights are common
Long distances make flying between cities usual; allow buffer time for connection delays.
7) Jet lag planning
Traveling from Europe?
Arrive a couple of days early to adjust to time zones, especially for East Coast races.
8) Tips for spectators
Major races (NYC, Chicago, Boston) have excellent spectator access, but large crowds mean slower movement.
Choose 1–2 key viewing spots in advance.
9) Gear pickup + bag check
Bag check can be restricted at some events — review race-day instructions ahead of time.
10) Public safety
US races have stricter security measures at start/finish areas; allow extra time for bag checks and controlled access points.
