Northeast
Whether it's densely populated cities, plunging temperatures or diverse culture, the northeast is known for many things—including great marathons. These hand-picked races will challenge you to run your best 26.2 yet.
Mad Marathon
July 7, 2019 in Waitsfield, Vermont
The eighth annual race will take place in Mad River Valley, a particularly scenic area of central Vermont. It's a popular area for tourists who come from all over to experience great skiing, but the valley is also home to great races.
The course will take you through the surrounding rural community on dirt roads, with mountains in the background. You'll have a few challenging climbs as you run along the rolling farmlands, but you'll be rewarded with views of quaint villages, covered bridges, historic barns and, of course, those famous Vermont cows.
Abebe Bikila Day International Peace Marathon
September 7, 2019 in Washington, D.C.
Looking for a course that is not only flat and tree-lined but scenic to boot? If so, this marathon was made for you. With only about 32 meters of elevation gain over the entire 26.2 miles, a PR might be in your future.
But apart from the ideal conditions on race day, this marathon celebrates—and is named for—Ethiopian Abebe Bikila, the 1960 Olympic marathon champion who won the gold after racing the entire course barefoot—setting a world record in the process. Bikila returned four years later, became the first person to defend his marathon title and broke his own record once again. If that's not motivation while on the course, we don't know what is!
Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival
September 22, 2019 in Schroon Lake, New York
The beauty of the Adirondacks is famous for a reason, and at this marathon, you can really soak it in. The course loops around Schroon Lake before heading into the Adirondack Forest Preserve for a nature-filled run through the woods.
For anyone hoping to enjoy an especially nice, easy run, make sure to arrive in time for the Early Bird Start--a non-competitive option for laid-back runners. You'll be excused from the six-hour time limit, and you'll still receive a recorded time and a finisher's medal.
Potomac River Run Marathon
October 5, 2019 in Washington, D.C.
Soak up views of the Potomac as you log a sweet and steady 26.2. This event is a great option for first-time marathoners—the course is almost completely flat, shaded and has no road crossings (and the beautiful views of the river don't hurt either).
The race starts and finishes at the Carderock Recreation Center, taking runners on the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath. Enjoy post-race doughnuts and pancakes after you pick up your finisher's medal and tech shirt.
NYCRUNS Brooklyn Marathon
October 19, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York
This marathon is on its eighth year and has sold out every year prior, making it one of the most attractive options on this list. It was even named "Marathon of the Year" in 2012 by TRAVLETE .
It takes place in Brooklyn's Prospect Park, where you'll complete a number of course loops, passing two hydration stations a total of 16 times. Runners receive constant spectator support the whole way through, and a medal and long-sleeve technical shirt at the finish.
Atlantic City Marathon
October 20, 2019 in Atlantic City, New Jersey
Run your next 26.2 on the historic Atlantic City boardwalk.
This marathon features live entertainment along the course as you take in gorgeous beaches, illustrious casinos and the famous, six-story high Lucy the Elephant, constructed in 1881. The course is out and back, starting and finishing right on the boardwalk at Michigan Avenue, in front of Bally's Casino Resort.
Make sure to check out the Finisher's Village, which will include food specific to Atlantic City, like Harry's Clam Chowder, Formica Brother's Bread, water ice and more.