7 Best American Marathons

Running a marathon is an incredible accomplishment. It takes months of preparation and training to be able to complete 26.2 miles. If you are looking for a challenge and are considering running a marathon, you may be wondering which race to sign up for. Here are seven of the best marathons in the United States.

1. Boston Marathon
   The Boston Marathon is one of the most well-known marathons in the world. The course is famously hilly, which makes it a challenging race. The race takes place every year on Patriots’ Day, which is a holiday in Massachusetts. If you are interested in running the Boston Marathon, you will need to qualify by running another marathon within a certain time limit.
2. NYC Marathon
   The NYC Marathon is the largest marathon in the world. Over 50,000 runners participate in the race each year. The course winds its way through all five boroughs of New York City, so runners get to experience a little bit of everything that NYC has to offer. You do not need to qualify to run this marathon; anyone can sign up.
3. Chicago Marathon
   The Chicago Marathon is another large marathon with over 45,000 runners each year. The course is relatively flat, which makes it a good choice for runners who are looking to set a personal record. Like the NYC Marathon, anyone can sign up for the Chicago Marathon; you do not need to qualify.
4. Honolulu Marathon
   The Honolulu Marathon takes place in December and is one of the most popular marathons in Hawaii. The course starts and finishes at Diamond Head Crater and runs past some of Honolulu’s most iconic landmarks including Waikiki Beach and Pali Lookout. This is a popular race, so make sure to register early if you want to participate.
5. Marine Corps Marathon
   The Marine Corps Marathon is known as “The People’s Marathon” because it does not require participants to have a qualifying time like many other races do. Runners who complete this marathon receive a commemorative Marine Corps medal when they cross the finish line. This race takes place every October in Arlington, Virginia and has been nicknamed “National Mall Before or After Christmas.” If you are interested in running this race, make sure to register early as it typically fills up quickly.

6 & 7 Walt Disney World Marathon & Disneyland Half Marathon

Both of these races take place at Disney theme parks and are very popular among runners who are also Disney fans (or who have always wanted to run through Disneyland). The Walt Disney World Marathon takes place every January at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida while the Disneyland Half Marathon takes place every September at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. These races typically sell out quickly, so if you’re interested in running either one, make sure to register as soon as registration opens!

America is a Great Place For Your Next Marathon

There are many great marathons all across the United States that cater to different types of runners. Whether you’re looking for a flat course or one with hills, there’s sure to be a marathon out there for you! For runner who want a unique experience, there are also several themed marathons such as those at Walt Disney World and Disneyland that may be of interest. Whatever your preference, get out there and start training for your next big race!