Runners stay up for fall marathons and for a superb cause! It’s the time when the climate is right for racing as a result of there really is nothing like working when the temps have dropped after an extended summer season. Should you’re planning your schedule, listed here are among the finest Fall marathons from runner suggestions that will help you determine.
With delicate, stunning climate in most components of the US, it’s no marvel that October and November marathons are so in style with runners. And after we first consider fall marathons, the one which pops up in our thoughts is often the long-lasting New York Metropolis Marathon.
And all of it begins in February with the drawing of the New York Metropolis marathon lottery. The second once you discover out if it is advisable revise your fall marathon coaching plan 12 months or when you get to pound the pavement by some of the well-known cities within the US.
In case your identify wasn’t pulled this 12 months, don’t have any concern!
You’ll be able to nonetheless take pleasure in an early fall marathon to maintain you on the identical coaching schedule, have enjoyable, and probably BQ if that’s your objective!
Nope, this record doesn’t embrace Chicago Marathon both, let’s suppose exterior the massive lottery races to offer you a greater likelihood at planning forward for a objective race.
So, regardless of which explicit race you select, fall marathons are a good way to remain energetic and problem your self, and I’m certain you’re going to search out one of the best fall marathon for you on this article. So lace up your footwear and prepare to hit the pavement!
11 Greatest Fall Marathons for 2024
As famous these are races that I pulled based mostly on tons of suggestions from runners that we coach 1:1 and from so many on Instagram who’ve despatched me their favorites.
1. Charlotte Marathon
Date: November 15, 2025
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Profile: Rolling Hills
Kind: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
Sunny skies and superb temperature together with some hills are the proper technique to describe Charlotte Marathon.
Each November, this annual race is held in Charlotte, North Carolina. It’s sooner or later that may characteristic three completely different races, together with a marathon, a half marathon, and a 5K with nearly 9,600 runners.
The Queen Metropolis’s distinctive tree-lined streets, historic websites, important sporting arenas, and essentially the most various neighborhood events are only a few of the sights and sounds that runners encounter within the Southeast’s fastest-growing metropolis.
The race ends at Romare Bearden Park, which is in the course of Uptown Charlotte. It’s a race for all runners as a result of there are issues to do alongside the course, massive names on the end line pageant, and 5 distance choices.
Uncover a race day expertise that’s superb for each goal, whether or not you’re crossing the end line after 3.1 or 26.2 miles.
Right here’s what Peanut Butter Runner has to say concerning the race:
The primary few miles of this race are fairly chill as they characteristic plenty of downhill. It is a big tease for ALL.THE.HILLS that it’s important to run to get again into Uptown on the end. Downtown Charlotte known as Uptown as a result of it’s constructed on a large hill and is elevated above many of the metropolis.
2. Indianapolis Monumental Marathon
Date: November 8, 2025
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Profile: Principally Flat
Kind: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
The Indy Monumental Marathon course is flat and quick, with a couple of minor hills, most notably between miles 15 and 18. The Monumental Marathon is a wonderful course for private data and for qualifying for the Boston Marathon as a consequence of its comparatively flat terrain and typical race day temperatures and humidity ranges.
It’s one of many prime 15 largest marathons in the USA, this occasion is held yearly within the coronary heart of Indianapolis with about 16,000 runners throughout all races. Working by the streets of downtown is likely one of the most stunning components of this race. At the moment of 12 months, the gorgeous fall colours additionally make the neighborhoods a sight to see.
The Monumental Marathon doesn’t require runners to take part in any sort of lottery so as to join the race, making it an particularly engaging choice for people who’re all for working a bigger race however don’t need to take care of the uncertainty of an internet lottery.
The State Capitol in Indianapolis serves as each the beginning and ending level for this annual race. One benefit of a downtown begin is that individuals can heat up within the conference middle earlier than the race begins. That is particularly useful since race mornings within the Midwest can turn into fairly chilly.
The assist from spectators is incredible at this race, and the volunteers who come out to cheer on the runners are extremely smitten by helping you in sustaining your momentum.
Indianapolis is the place to go if you wish to run a flat and quick midwest marathon.
Right here’s what Detroit Runner has to say concerning the race:
I initially selected this course as a result of it was so flat. There have been a couple of rolling hills however actually you might not get a lot flatter of a course. There have been spectators all through the entire course however extra in order you made your method again downtown.
At mile 11, there have been some very nice houses within the space. In actual fact, there was probably not a lot of the race that was not in a pleasant space. It actually showcased town’s nice components and whoever designed the course did a wonderful job.
3. Philadelphia Marathon
Date: November 24, 2025
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Profile: Principally Flat
Kind: Principally Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
The course of the Philadelphia Marathon is gorgeous and can maintain you and concerned the complete time. The 26 miles of this autumn marathon take runners by bustling downtown areas, previous dozens of historic websites, alongside Kelly drive and into the city of Manayunk earlier than hitting the turnaround again to the Philadelphia Artwork Musuem.
This fall marathon won’t disappoint as it’s persistently one of many prime 10 hottest marathons in the USA. In 2024, the complete race weekend bought out, so when you’re on the fence for this 12 months we propose registering early.
Your complete metropolis is buzzing with pleasure all through race weekend. You’ll be able to participate within the marathon, a combo of occasions for a problem or for household and pals there’s an 8k and half marathon distance on Saturday.
Be a part of 17,000 runners and run by the long-lasting streets of Philadelphia celebrating the largest 26.2 mile social gathering!
It’s my private favourite marathon of all that I’ve accomplished! Sure, I’d even select to do it once more over Honolulu.
From Run to the End Coach, Stacey:
The Philadelphia Marathon was my first marathon in 2018. I all the time seemed ahead to this race weekend yearly as a result of town comes alive with the entire pleasure and runners each the place. Not like different races in Philadelphia, this is likely one of the few that may take you thru the historic components of town, school campuses, neighborhoods and alongside Kelly Drive the place the vast majority of locals will spend their time coaching.
Should you’re on the lookout for a race as your first marathon, the Philadelphia Marathon (half and even 8k) will welcome you with open arms and reminiscences that you simply’ll cherish without end.
You’ll be able to learn our full Philadelphia Marathon Course and Tips >>
4. Hartford Marathon
Date: October 11, 2025
Location: Hartford, CT
Profile: Rolling Hills
Kind: Principally Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
With gorgeous views of the Connecticut River and the historic New England structure of South Windsor’s Outdated Foremost Road, the Hartford Marathon is a good way to expertise these revitalized riverfront areas of Hartford and East Hartford. This race isn’t as massive as among the others on this record, with round 9,300 for the complete weekend together with the marathon, half and 5k races.
Confession this one is on my attainable record! It simply appears so fairly!
Here’s what Stay Run Develop needed to share:
One of many issues I actually appreciated about this race was the on-course assist on bikes – there have been truly volunteers biking up and down the course not simply as course screens, however they’d gels, medical provides, and water available when you wanted it!
At round mile 20 I requested one if he had Vaseline or glide since I used to be chafing a bit and he stated he didn’t however he’d go get some and are available again – he biked away and a pair of minutes later he confirmed again up and handed me slightly packet, it was superior!
Gear verify was up a hill in direction of the place the beginning line was and I used to be not significantly wanting ahead to that stroll – not that it was lengthy, it was simply up a hill.
Properly, that Hartford Marathon had considered that too! Proper on the backside of the hill, there was a line of golf carts giving rides up the hill to bag verify – severely among the best race day runner providers I’ve ever seen!
5. Richmond Marathon
Date: November 15, 2025
Location: Richmond, VA
Profile: Rolling Hills
Kind: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
Richmond, Virginia’s annual marathon, appropriately dubbed ‘America’s Friendliest Marathon,’ is well known for its enthusiastic spectators, stunning fall surroundings, and thrilling riverfront end. The race weekend includes a full marathon, along with a half marathon and an 8K race. The weekend often sees round 20,000 runners, with the marathon capped at 10,000!!
The course for the Richmond marathon begins at Grace Road and fifth Road within the metropolis middle and winds by historic districts, the Virginia Commonwealth College campus, and at last alongside the world-famous James River. The gorgeous fall foliage makes for a picturesque setting for the complete marathon distance.
In November, Virginia’s climate is ceaselessly excellent for runners, with race day highs round 50 levels. Alongside the course, there are two ‘junk meals’ stops with soda and sweet for runners, in addition to three ‘social gathering zones’ with extra meals, prizes, and encouragement.
A post-race social gathering is held proper alongside the James River’s Canal Stroll the place runners cross the end line.
Listed below are some ideas from The Proper Suits:
The course has some critical rolling hills and a big uphill round mile 16, however there was additionally loads of downhill. In actual fact, the end was a CRAZY downhill- LOVED it! The course went by some very stunning neighborhoods with some attractive historic houses. It additionally confirmed off all the autumn colours alongside the James River. So fairly. It crossed over two bridges, which have been slightly robust mentally (and really windy!) however nonetheless a very nice course.
6. Twin Cities Marathon
Date: October 5, 2025
Location: St. Paul, MN
Profile: Rolling Hills
Kind: Level to Level
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
The Twin Cities Marathon is a well-liked fall marathon choice and is persistently one of many largest marathons in the USA. The course is exclusive in that it passes by two main Minnesota cities, specifically St. Paul and Minneapolis. since why it’s named Twin Cities.
The route is a point-to-point route that begins close to the US Financial institution Stadium in downtown Minneapolis and ends on the State Capitol in Saint Paul. The course goes on either side of the Mississippi River and round 4 lakes. It’s predominantly flat with a couple of rolling hills scattered all through. Nevertheless, there aren’t any main hills to climb.
Your complete weekend is stuffed with occasions starting from a 5k, 10k, 10 miler, half marathon, marathon and a number of challenges! This fall marathon presents the best likelihood to take the entire household away for the weekend and get everybody concerned within the festivities.
There’s a cause this marathon is on our record and it sometimes sells out with 8,000 runners for the marathon distance and an estimated 28,000 registrants throughout all races!
Some ideas from Kosiapo:
This fall race brings about one of the best. The course has its challenges like rolling hills, stunning fall surroundings, and visible appeals together with rounding up three lakes heading into the state’s capital. The spectators lining the complete route means boredom is out of the query. Soak within the standard “Minnesota Good” ambiance.
7. Baltimore Marathon
Date: October 18, 2025
Location: Baltimore, MD
Profile: Hilly
Kind: Principally Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
That is one other full weekend of enjoyable working occasions for the complete household. The Baltimore Working Pageant has every thing from a 5k, 10k, half and full marathon. Plus there’s some enjoyable challenges the place you may earn the entire bling!
The Baltimore Marathon course is reasonably difficult, consisting of a mix of two hilly to rolling segments separated by six miles of flat terrain.
The course goes by many alternative neighborhoods, equivalent to the gorgeous waterfront space of Internal Harbor, the historic Federal Hill neighborhood, and Fells Level. The route additionally goes proper by the penguin exhibit on the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.
The miles 16–20 have been in comparison with Boston’s ‘Heartbreak Hill,’ however the course does reward runners with a loop round Lake Montebello, which is comparatively flat. The final 5 miles are predominantly downhill.
The route then returns downtown for an inspiring end by Camden Yards, dwelling of the Baltimore Orioles. Runners end their races on Raven’s Stroll, which is close to M&T Financial institution Stadium, the place the Baltimore Ravens play.
Your complete race weekend will see about 13,000 runners! Should you’re on the lookout for a smaller marathon with an enormous really feel, add this to your record!
8. California Worldwide Marathon
Date: December 7, 2025
Location: Sacramento, CA
Profile: Downhill
Kind: Level to Level
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
The CIM race is likely one of the hottest in the USA and for good cause! The course includes a internet drop in elevation, making it a perfect location to set a brand new private file (PR), qualify for the Boston Marathon or the Olympic Trials.
This marathon has greater than 10,000 marathon finishers every year, so that you received’t be working it by your self at any level. This race boasts a excessive likelihood of almost excellent working climate on race day, with temperatures within the mid-50s anticipated in California towards the tip of the 12 months, making it a perfect time to go for a run.
Not prepared to totally decide to the 26.2 distance however nonetheless need to expertise the CIM magic? Create a relay workforce and full the gap collectively.
As you prepare for this race, benefit from your fall coaching and attempt to keep away from the extraordinary warmth of summer season. The California Worldwide Marathon is the correct selection for you if you wish to compete in a bigger marathon however would quite not be topic to the random likelihood of a lottery.
Listed below are some ideas from RickSawThat:
That is an epic race with some actually quick runners who will encourage you and pull you alongside. Be ready for ALOT of rolling hills some greater than you anticipate. That is really a bucket record race – register early!
9. Marine Corps Marathon
Date: October 26, 2025
Location: Washington, D.C.
Profile: Principally Flat
Kind: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
The Marine Corps Marathon is likely one of the largest marathons in the USA and the world, and it’s recognized for its flawless group and exquisite course by Arlington, Virginia and the nation’s capital. This race attracts runners from everywhere in the world with 63 completely different international locations represented! This is likely one of the bigger marathons on our record with round 24,000 individuals.
Because the identify suggests, it’s managed by the USA Marine Corps. The MCM, often known as ‘The Individuals’s Marathon,’ is the biggest marathon on the earth and not using a money prize and is thought to be ‘one of the best marathon for learners.’
To take part within the Marine Corps Marathon, you need to enter an internet lottery, however with a fast turnaround for the outcomes, you’ll know inside weeks when you’ve been chosen.
Listed below are some ideas from one of many 2024 pacers, Firas:
Pacing the @marinecorpsmarathon in Washington’s picturesque October felt so dreamy, trippy and enjoyable. You get that unimaginable belief bond from fellow runners and crowds.. I simply obtained all of the vitality from them; till it appeared easy.. actually; nothing like that feeling…
Get our full Marine Corps Marathon suggestions and breakdown >>
10. Detroit Free Press Marathon
Date: October 19, 2025
Location: Detroit, MI
Profile: Principally Flat
Kind: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
Get your passport prepared as a result of the Detroit Free Press Marathon is particular as a result of it permits runners to run into Canada and race internationally. Close to the beginning of the race, you’ll cross the Ambassador Bridge into Windsor, Ontario, after which return by the tunnel to complete in Detroit.
This race weekend sells out and you may anticipate to run the 26.2 with 24,000 different runners! The course consists of iconic Detroit components such because the Woodbridge neighborhood, the District Detroit, Jap Market, the Dequindre Lower, and a end line on the foot of Campus Martius.
The almost mile-long tunnel again to the USA makes this the one underwater marathon on the earth.
There will likely be numerous spectators unfold out throughout the complete course, in each Canada and the USA. Plus, you received’t have to attend exterior for as lengthy when you benefit from the pre-race services which can be conveniently positioned inside strolling distance of the beginning of the race.
Along with the marathon, the weekend is stuffed with occasions just like the 1-mile, 5k, half marathon, relay and completely different challenges.
Listed below are some ideas from NJBanker:
This was such a properly organized and nice run. Such a singular expertise to run over the Ambassador Bridge to Canada and return by the Detroit Windsor Tunnel. The race was comparatively flat with solely the onramps and offramps posing a problem. The race toured downtown, the suburbs and among the outskirt manufacturing areas. The crowds have been nice! There have been just a few miles that have been sparse however I’ll always remember leaving the tunnel, passing by the boarder patrol terminal and a hug crowd erupting as you enter downtown Detroit. Nice race all collectively!
11. Wineglass Marathon
Date: October 5, 2025
Location: Corning, NY
Profile: Downhill
Kind: Level to Level
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
The Wineglass Marathon is a point-to-point race that runs from Tub, New York to downtown Corning, New York. Don’t fear about attending to the beginning line, the race will present buses that morning!
Be a part of 2,000 runners on a comparatively flat and quick course with a internet elevation lack of roughly 200 ft. The race goes by a couple of small cities and alongside some stunning nation roads.
Since there will likely be a number of races over the course of the weekend, each member of your loved ones will have the ability to participate in at the very least certainly one of them. Who is aware of, Bart Yasso might even learn your identify out as you cross over the end line!
Make the most of this course’s low elevation and fast tempo whereas competing alongside 2,000 different runners. Your complete weekend will see nearly 6,500 runners!
This race is likely one of the most stunning marathons in New York, so it’s a terrific cause to take a fall journey with your loved ones.
A number of ideas from first time marathoner, Zappy009:
As soon as I used to be able to tackle my first marathon, I knew all of the situations must be excellent to make it as clean an expertise as attainable: flatter course, cooler climate, nice surroundings, stress-free logistics. It didn’t take lengthy to search out out Wineglass could be one of the best match. After crossing the end line, that opinion nonetheless stands – it is a stable selection for a primary marathon.
So there you may have it. Some choices to nonetheless get your racecation on for 26.2, have a good time, and have a look at it as observe for hopefully stepping into the lottery subsequent 12 months!
You’ll be able to’t go incorrect with any of those marathons, whether or not working a fall marathon is a part of your annual routine or a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
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