Running some of the most popular marathons in the USA, like the New York City, Chicago, and Boston Marathons, offers an exhilarating blend of athletic challenge, vibrant community spirit, and unforgettable travel experiences. These iconic races, part of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, draw tens of thousands of runners annually, from elite athletes chasing personal bests to first-timers soaking in the energy of cheering crowds and scenic routes through historic cities, national landmarks, and magical theme parks. Whether you’re navigating the five boroughs of NYC, speeding through Chicago’s flat urban course, or conquering Boston’s Heartbreak Hill, these marathons promise not only a test of endurance but also a journey through America’s rich cultural landscapes, making them must-do events for runners and travelers seeking adventure and achievement.

1) New York City Marathon
The TCS New York City Marathon 2025, held on November 2, is a bucket-list event for runners worldwide, drawing over 50,000 participants through the iconic five boroughs of Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan, finishing triumphantly in Central Park. This 26.2-mile course features diverse neighborhoods, massive crowd support, and highlights like the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge start and Queensboro Bridge views, making it a vibrant block party experience. Popular for its electric atmosphere and no qualification lottery for many entrants via charity or time standards, it’s ideal for first-timers and elites alike, offering unique features like dedicated lactation spaces and a model for big-city marathons that blend challenge with celebration. Whether you’re chasing a PR or soaking in the energy, this world-famous NYC marathon promises an unforgettable runner’s high.
Starting Line: Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, NY 10305
Website: https://www.nyrr.org/tcsnycmarathon

2) Chicago Marathon
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2025, set for October 12, is renowned for its flat, fast course that winds through 29 diverse neighborhoods, showcasing landmarks like Grant Park, the Chicago River, and iconic architecture, making it a top choice for personal bests and world records. With around 40,000 runners, the event offers a thrilling participant experience featuring enthusiastic spectators, aid stations, and post-race festivities in Grant Park, without strict qualifications—entry is via lottery, guaranteed options, or charity. Its popularity stems from the world-class competition, mild fall weather, and unique loop design that maximizes city vibes, perfect for beginners to elites seeking fast times on this Abbott World Marathon Major. If you’re looking for a Chicago marathon that’s as exhilarating as the Windy City itself, this one delivers speed, support, and unforgettable highlights.
Starting Line: Columbus Drive and Monroe Drive, Grant Park, Chicago, IL 60601
Website: https://www.chicagomarathon.com/

3) Boston Marathon
The Boston Marathon 2025, the world’s oldest annual marathon held on April 21, challenges runners with its historic point-to-point course from Hopkinton to Boylston Street, featuring rolling hills including the infamous Heartbreak Hill between miles 20 and 21, where determination is tested amid stunning New England scenery. Attracting over 28,000 participants, it’s popular for its prestige as an Abbott World Marathon Major, requiring qualifying times based on age and gender—entries closed in September 2024—offering a profound sense of achievement and community spirit. Runners rave about the electric crowd energy, especially at Wellesley College’s scream tunnel, and unique traditions like the left turn on Boylston, making it a rite of passage for serious athletes chasing Boston qualifier glory. For those dreaming of conquering Heartbreak Hill and earning that unicorn medal, this legendary Boston marathon embodies resilience and running heritage.
Starting Line: Main Street at Wood Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748
Website: https://www.baa.org/races/boston-marathon

4) Los Angeles Marathon
The ASICS Los Angeles Marathon 2026, scheduled for March 8, invites runners to tackle the “Stadium to the Stars” course, a 26.2-mile journey from Dodger Stadium through vibrant LA neighborhoods and landmarks like Hollywood and Beverly Hills, ending near the Santa Monica Pier with ocean views. Highlights include live entertainment, enthusiastic crowds, and finisher perks like medals and t-shirts, creating an immersive participant experience for all levels—no strict qualifications needed, with entry via registration or charity. Popular for its world-class operations and support of The McCourt Foundation’s mission against neurological diseases, this LA marathon stands out with potential celebrity sightings and a dynamic urban-to-sea route that’s both challenging and scenic. Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned runner, the Los Angeles Marathon offers a star-studded adventure that’s as glamorous as the city itself.
Starting Line: Dodger Stadium, 1000 Vin Scully Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Website: https://www.lamarathon.com/

5) Marine Corps Marathon
The Marine Corps Marathon 2025, taking place on October 26 in Arlington, VA, and Washington, DC, is dubbed “The People’s Marathon” for its inclusive 26.2-mile course past national monuments like the Capitol and Lincoln Memorial, organized impeccably by the U.S. Marines with no prize money or qualifying times required. Runners enjoy highlights such as the MCM Expo, Kids Run, and app for tracking, fostering a supportive participant experience ideal for beginners, with entry through lottery or charity and perks like the Runners Club for repeat finishers. Its popularity lies in the patriotic vibe, community initiatives like the Adopt-A-Mile program, and unique features including the Armed Forces Series Challenge, making it one of the largest beginner-friendly marathons worldwide. For those seeking a DC marathon that’s motivational and monument-filled, this event delivers honor, heart, and endless encouragement.
Starting Line: Arlington Blvd at N. Quincy St, Arlington, VA 22203
Website: https://www.marinemarathon.com/

6) Honolulu Marathon
The JAL Honolulu Marathon 2025, set for December 14, offers a paradise-like 26.2-mile course starting at Ala Moana Boulevard with fireworks, weaving along Waikiki Beach, past Diamond Head and ocean views, and finishing in Kapiolani Park—no time limit or qualifications needed, welcoming all paces. Highlights include spectacular coastal scenery, aloha spirit from volunteers, and events like the Start to Park 10K, creating a festive participant experience with no lottery barriers. Popular as Hawaii’s premier marathon for its unlimited entries and walker-friendly vibe, unique features like volcanic crater backdrops and mild tropical weather make it a dream vacation run. If you’re craving a scenic Hawaii marathon with endless ocean vibes, this one captures the essence of aloha in every step.
Starting Line: Ala Moana Blvd / Queen St Extension, Honolulu, HI 96815
Website: https://www.honolulumarathon.org/

7) Twin Cities Marathon
The Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon 2025, occurring on October 5, is hailed as “The Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America,” with a point-to-point course from Minneapolis to St. Paul, passing lakes, fall foliage, and landmarks like the Mississippi River and State Capitol for a stunning 26.2-mile journey. Runners appreciate the supportive crowds, aid stations, and family-friendly weekend events, with no strict qualifications—entry via registration—and a focus on all levels for an inspiring experience. Its popularity comes from the vibrant autumn scenery and urban charm, unique features including shorter races like 10K and 5K, making it perfect for soaking in Minneapolis-St. Paul beauty. For fall marathon enthusiasts, this Twin Cities gem offers picturesque paths and community spirit that’s hard to beat.
Starting Line: 615 S 6th St, Minneapolis, MN 55415
Website: https://www.tcmevents.org/

8) California International Marathon
The California International Marathon 2025, on December 7 in Sacramento, boasts a fast, net-downhill point-to-point course with a 366-foot elevation drop from Folsom to the State Capitol, featuring gentle hills and a flat finish—ideal for Boston qualifiers and PRs without index penalties. Highlights include USATF certification, world-class weather, and a runner-focused community, providing an empowering experience for first-timers to elites with entry via registration. Popular as the “fastest course in the West” and a top Boston qualifier per outlets like Runner’s World, its unique unchanged 42-year route and nonprofit organization by the Sacramento Running Association add to its appeal. If you’re targeting a Sacramento marathon for speed and success, this iconic event is a must on every runner’s list.
Starting Line: Beeline Dr near Folsom Dam, Folsom, CA 95630
Website: https://runsra.org/california-international-marathon/

9) Philadelphia Marathon
The AACR Philadelphia Marathon 2025, part of the November 21-23 weekend, features a fast, scenic 26.2-mile course past historic landmarks like the Liberty Bell, through urban neighborhoods and waterfronts, serving as a Boston qualifier with USATF certification. With over 30,000 athletes, the event offers highlights like the Half Marathon and 8K, plus gear shopping and community wellness focus, though currently sold out—join via waitlist, charity, or fundraising for cancer research. Popular for its flat terrain and historic vibes, unique partnerships with the American Association for Cancer Research make it a meaningful run emphasizing health and advocacy. For Philly marathon seekers, this event blends speed, sights, and purpose into an unbeatable urban adventure.
Starting Line: 22nd St & Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Website: https://www.philadelphiamarathon.com/

10) Walt Disney World Marathon
The Walt Disney World Marathon 2025, from January 8-12, enchants runners with a magical 26.2-mile course through all four theme parks—Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios—featuring character meet-ups, entertainment, and a whimsical storybook theme. Highlights include finisher medals, on-course motivation, and no strict qualifications—register early as spots fill fast via runDisney. Popular for its fun, family-oriented vibe and unique Disney immersion, it’s perfect for all levels seeking photo ops with icons like Mickey and a celebratory atmosphere. If you’re dreaming of a magical marathon in Orlando, this runDisney event turns miles into memories with pure enchantment.
Starting Line: Epcot Center Dr outside Epcot, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Website: https://www.rundisney.com/