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20 Best Marathons in the US You Should Participate in 2023 -2024

Marathons are very important. It’s actually such a big deal that a lot of people go to watch and cheer on the runners. Running a marathon may be an enjoyable and thrilling activity, and completing one—regardless of the time it takes—can be among the most satisfying experiences of your life. It can be incredibly thrilling and assist in producing a very satisfying, natural high. The challenge of running a marathon is another reason why runners find it appealing; the challenge increases tenfold in the event that a marathon victory is achieved. You’re in for a great treat if you currently participate in marathons or are considering doing so in the US. Here are the 20 best marathons in the US you should participate in 2023-2024.

Best Marathons in the US You Should Participate

1. Philadelphia Marathon (November 2023)

This largely flat race will pass by some of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center, two of Philadelphia’s most recognizable landmarks. Even if the marathon is wonderful, coming to Philly just for the culinary scene alone is worth it. Enjoy some of the greatest cuisine the town has to offer to refuel as you lace up. Definitely one of the be best marathons in the US you should participate. 

2. Space Coast Marathon (November 2023)

The oldest marathon in Florida is a crazy space adventure that should definitely be on your wish list. Starting at Cocoa Village, the event culminates on the river at Cocoa Riverfront Park and Lee Wenner Park. Prepare yourself for an extraordinary experience, as the entire course draws inspiration from the galaxy. There is a pasta meal provided before the race during this race.

3. Montana Governor’s Cup Marathon (November 2023)

This point-to-point race, which features a difficult hilly section between kilometers 16 and 20, is a Boston qualifier. There’s nowhere else like this marathon course, which takes you across the former mining deserted town of Wickes and scenic countryside.

4. Amica Seattle Marathon (November 2023)

The hometown marathon in Seattle is taking place this year, and it’s fantastic. You’ll see the city’s bridges, rivers, and expansive panoramas as you navigate the course’s rolling hills. Just be certain that you’re prepared to handle the elevation, which is around 930 feet. 

5. Kiawah Island Marathon (December 2023)

Experience the breathtaking Lowcountry of South Carolina like never before via the Kiawah Island Marathon. This lovely run offers numerous of views, from mossy woods to endless stretches of marshes. In addition, the elevation rise is only approximately 129 feet, making it an ideal course for setting a personal best.

6. Honolulu Marathon (December 2023)

This race is a semi-out-and-back that features a few mild hills as it cruises along Honolulu’s oceanfront. This course will treat you to plenty of breathtaking views of the ocean before heading inland to give you an up-close look at the city. Furthermore, the December weather in Hawaii is among the best of the year. The elevation of the route is approximately 460 feet.

7. Miami Marathon (January 2024)

Novice runners will enjoy this thrilling marathon because, in addition to the pleasant February weather, the scenery of the area’s stunning beaches is breathtaking. A jam-packed weekend of events is provided by the Miami Marathon, so the whole weekend is guaranteed to be amazing.

8. The Cowtown Marathon (February 2024)

This Texas marathon passes through city parks, the TCU campus, the historic stockyard district of Fort Worth, and Magnolia Avenue. There are numerous undulating hills on this course, including a sizable one at mile 9. The community in North Texas benefits from the marathon. The race’s entire proceeds support local children’s education in safe conducting strategies and a healthy, active lifestyle.

9. Napa Valley Marathon (March 2024)

There are about 1,500 marathoners that compete in the vineyard-lined Napa Valley Marathon. It’s usually a very low-key race with limited places to watch. This is a mostly downhill point-to-point marathon with some rolling hills in the early going. Calistoga is the starting point, and Napa is the finishing point. Because the route is also largely linear, certain runners argue that the cognitive detriment of constantly knowing what’s ahead offset its gradual downhill advantage.

10. Big Sur International Marathon (April 2024)

This race is unique in that it offers views of the Pacific Ocean, mountains, and redwood trees from Highway 1. The race in Big Sur is point-to-point. In other words, you begin in one place (Big Sur) and end up somewhere else (26.2 miles from the starting point) (Carmel). This course has an incredible 2,100 feet of total elevation gain with rolling hills the entire way.

11. Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon (May 2024)

The Flying Pig route passes through Kentucky and over the Ohio River. Even though it doesn’t always happen at races, it’s still a strange experience. After crossing the Ohio River, the Flying Pig route briefly enters Kentucky. Many “Street Squealers” who line the streets will cheer you on. You will also be appreciative of the “Grunts” who volunteered to give you help, fuel, and water.

12. Missoula Marathon (June 2024)

The Missoula Marathon is well-known for its flat terrain. Just past the halfway point, though, is a single, swift, and extremely steep hill. Missoula has a resounding backing from spectators. You’ll find lots of supporters lining the run, in their paths, and performing music, whether you’re in a suburb or out in the country. It is one of the best marathons in the US you should participate since it is highly praised and supported by runners all around the country.  

13. Fargo Marathon (June 2024)

The Fargo Marathon has remarkable uniqueness at both its start and finish. It is small but powerful. The FargoDome is home to the starting and finishing lines. Spectators from all around the stadium will applaud you as you cross the finish line and see yourself displayed on the jumbotron. State lines are crossed on the Fargo Marathon course. You’ll be inspired by the enthusiastic crowd as well as the more than 50 bands along with DJs lining the course.

14. Bank of America Chicago Marathon (October 2024)

You have to win the lottery to be eligible to take part in this marathon. To secure your place, you can also choose to run for charity. There are spectators lining much of the course. Supporters will likely see their runner a few times as there are multiple turns back toward the city spaced a few miles apart. It’s perfect to have a favorite post-race drink at Grant Park’s finish line and grab some Giordano’s deep-dish pizza.

15. IMT Des Moines Marathon (October 2024)

A lot of runners mention that one special feature of the Des Moines Marathon is the bike support. Volunteers on bicycles deliver tissues, candy, water, music, and other aid to athletes in besides the aid stations and offers stationed throughout the course. Every year, about 1,000 runners cross the finish line of the Des Moines Marathon, which takes them through parks, areas, a university track, and around a lake.

16. Baystate Marathon (October 2024)

The Baystate Marathon is one of the best marathons in the US you should participate. While many runners find the scenery unimpressive, most concur that there’s a good chance you can set a personal record here. Your supporters will get to see you on the path multiple times if you bring them along. The community’s support, the helpers, and the amenities at the finish line are all adored by runners.

17. Williams Route 66 Marathon (November 2024)

More than 1,500 runners participate in this marathon. This race is hillier and trickier than you might think, though. This course will lead you to a historic landmark in Tulsa, which is only 0.3 miles past the finish line. The name of the location that produces an auditory anomaly is “The Center of the Universe”. This race offers an exceptional opportunity to become an ultra-marathoner.

18. Marine Corps Marathon (October 2024)

The Marine Corps Marathon is without a doubt one of the largest and best marathons in the US you should participate.  The US Marines stationed in Virginia and Washington, D.C. oversee the marathon. Running the Blue Mile in remembrance of fallen soldiers, runners pass by multiple national monuments and are given their medals by Marines.

19. Indianapolis Monumental Marathon (November 2024)

A lot of runners have achieved new personal records in this marathon. Furthermore, it’s one of the biggest races in the country. The Indianapolis Marathon draws close to 5,000 runners, and many consider it to be the best-run competition in the Midwest. The State Capitol serves as both the starting and finishing points. One advantage of starting downtown is that competitors can seek cover from the heat in the convention center prior to the race.

20. California International Marathon (December 2024)

The course starts in Folsom, California, travels through rural towns and countryside, and ends at the State Capitol in Sacramento. It is a net downhill course. Remember that there are still uphills even in cases where there is net downhill. Although the scenery isn’t particularly noteworthy, competitors praise the way this race was put together overall. Its motto is “A marathon organized by runners, for runners,” and it welcomes more than 9000 runners.

Conclusion

So, those are the 20 best marathons in the US you should participate in 2023-2024. Based on the marathons listed here, the United States offers a wide range of marathons to suit all tastes, from tough small-town races to major international events.

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