best marathons in the us

The Top 10 Best Marathons in the United States [2024]

Running a marathon is an exhilarating experience that tests both physical and mental limits. Whether you're a competitive runner aiming for a personal best or a seasoned athlete looking to complete a bucket list race, the United States offers a plethora of fantastic marathons to choose from. In this article, we present our picks for the top 10 best marathons in the US for 2024, based on factors such as difficulty, scenery, support, and popularity.

1. Boston Marathon – known as the "Holy Grail" of marathons, it's a point-to-point event held on Patriots' Day in April. The course starts in Hopkinton and ends in Boston, passing famous landmarks such as the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and the Boston Marathon finish line in Central Park.

2. New York City Marathon – held on the first Sunday in November, this race attractson average of 50,000 runners and is broadcast live on television globally. The course starts in Staten Island and takes in five boroughs, passing iconic landmarks and concluding in Central Park.

3. Chicago Marathon – located in October, this flat and fast course is known for its fast times and popular racing event. The race offers a spectator-friendly environment and takes place on a point-to-point route through Chicago's streets and lakefront views.

4. Walt Disney World Marathon – part of Disney's "Marathon Weekend," this event features a 4-day festival with events for nearly every running distance. The course winds through Walt Disney World's theme parks, allowing racers to see all four parks without the large crowds.

5. Mountaineer Marathon – situated in WV, this race takes competitors up and down the stunning West Virginia mountains. The total elevation gain is 6,800 feet, making it a challenging and rewarding marathon for experienced trail runners.

6. New Jersey Marathon – held in June, this scenic marathon takes racers through the beautiful countryside of central New Jersey. The course offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, making it a popular choice for runners seeking a unique running experience.

7. Rock 'n' Roll San Francisco Marathon – located in September, this marathon takes runners on a point-to-point course through the bustling streets of San Francisco. The flat and fast course is a favorite among Bay Area native runners.

8. Gothenburg Marathon – held in April, this scenic marathon takes racers along the banks of the Gossling River in northwest Nebraska. The course offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape and a challenging but manageable distance for runners.

9. Utah Valley Marathon – held in June, this marathon follows a point-to-point course through the heart of Utah Valley. The race features stunning mountain vistas, rolling hills, and a fast and flat course that challenges runners to achieve their best times.

10. Palm Beach Marathon – held in January, this marathon offers a unique run through the lush greenery of the Palm Beaches. The course takes racers on a point-to-point route, passing by historic mansions and stunning beaches.

Each of these marathons offers a different experience, whether it's the challenge of a tough mountainous course, the excitement of a city marathon, or the beauty of a coastal beachfront race. Whether you're training for your first marathon or looking to add another exciting event to your race season, these are the best marathons in the United States for 2024.

This article was created in partnership with [USATF] to provide comprehensive information about the top marathons in the United States for the year 2024.