Marathon runners know which courses are the most difficult, require the best qualifying times and have the most energetic spectators. But how can you be sure you’re getting a great deal when you plan your next vacation to a marathon city?
Whether you’re running the race or cheering on the runners, there are some important travel tips to keep in mind when heading to a marathon destination. We’ve put together some tips for marathon travelers who plan to hit one of the top five cities this running season.
Boston: Held on the third Monday in April, the Boston Marathon is the oldest and considered one of the most prestigious marathons in the world. In 2007, runners from more than 80 countries participated in the 111th marathon. The weekend leading up to the race is a great time for visitors coming to Boston, but be prepared for some crowded streets.
“One to two million spectators take over [the] city,” says Larry Meehan, Vice President of Media Relations & Tourism Sales for the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Serious marathon spectators book their Boston flight and hotel as much as a year in advance. Visitors are advised to book travel for the Boston Marathon by January to be safe. However, Meehan says there’s still usually hotel space about a month before the marathon, you’ll just need to be flexible. Hotel availability can be limited in the downtown area, near the finish line. The good news: If you find hotel accommodations outside of the city, you can take public transportation into town. Since the race winds through several different towns outside of Boston, check availability in these places, as well.
As for flights to Boston, you may have to compare several airlines since some may place black-out dates around the dates of the marathon.
Need something else to do while you’re visiting Boston in April? The marathon isn’t the only event being held in the city during that weekend:
John Hancock Sports & Fitness Expo: Check out this weekend-long event voted “Best Runner’s Expo in the Country” by Runner’s World Magazine. It is open to the public with free admission.
Red Sox game: Boston’s beloved baseball team traditionally plays at Fenway Park at 11:05 a.m. on Marathon Monday.
Boston Marathon tips:
- Several hours before the race reaches the Back Bay of Boston, the area from the Boston Public Library and Hereford Street close to pedestrians crossing.
- The North End (Boston’s Little Italy) will be packed the Sunday night before the race with runners loading up on pasta.
- If you’re in town to see more than just the runners, consider downloading the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau’s “Family-Friendly ValuePass.” The pass offers discounts at restaurants, stores, museums and more.
London (April): Considered one of the most popular marathons, the Flora London Marathon is also a treat for spectators. Linda Vessa from ESPN Sports Travel notes that the “camaraderie between crowd and runners sets this marathon apart.”
You can also catch some of London’s famous landmarks along the route, such as the House of Parliament and Buckingham Palace.
London Marathon tips:
- If you’re not familiar with London or the race route, it’s best to use the spectator routes guide provided by the London Marathon’s official site.
- If you need a break (and a pint), stop off at one of 80+ pubs along the course. You can cheer the runners on, hear live music and enjoy food and beverages all at the same time.
- According to the marathon’s official site, it’s best to avoid the area near mile 25 through the finish line if you don’t want to be immersed in an especially crowded area.
Chicago (October): Autumn may be the perfect time to visit Chicago – the oppressive summer weather has subsided and winter’s harsh temperatures haven’t arrived yet. More than one million spectators line the marathon route supporting the 45,000 runners. With so many people headed to the Windy City in October, it’s best to book your Chicago flight and hotel as early as possible. It’s worth comparing Chicago hotel prices since many of them offer special rates for the marathon weekend.
Chicago Marathon tips:
- Want to be the ultimate spectator? Join the 26.2 Curb Crew and from July through October, you’ll receive e-mail updates with maps, marathon-related tips and information on the race and other events taking place in Chicago.
- It’s best to learn Chicago’s public transportation (CTA) routes along the marathon since this will be the quickest and most economical way of traveling through the city.
Washington, D.C. (October): The nation’s capital is more than just museums and historic monuments. Each year, the Marine Corps Marathon (nicknamed “The People’s Marathon”) attracts approximately 100,000 spectators.
Catch a glimpse of the White House, Lincoln Memorial, the Pentagon and other notable landmarks as you move from place to place on the marathon route.
Washington D.C. Marathon tips:
- Not sure where to watch the race from or how to get around the city? Check out these suggested routes from the Marine Corps Marathon site. Purchase a one-day Metro pass for easy traveling around the city.
- Like other major marathons, hotels and flights book up fast in the city, so plan ahead and make your plans as far in advance as possible.
- Check out the Finish Festival when the runners have completed the race. The 2007 festival included a beer garden, an apparel store and more.
New York (November): New York City is one of the most popular travel destinations in the U.S., so booking your New York flight and hotel far in advance is suggested. No matter when you book your travel, be prepared to compare prices since there are many New York flight and hotel options available.
The ING New York City Marathon begins in Staten Island and crosses through the five burroughs, finishing in Central Park.
New York City Marathon tips:
- Plan your marathon-viewing route since the race runs throughout the city. Travel easier and quicker by purchasing an all-day, unlimited MetroCard.
- Take a break from the race and enjoy live music along the course.
- The official NYC marathon site recommends viewing the professional runners (the ones that can run a 5-minute mile) around Mile 14 and 15. Have a friend or family member running? A good viewing spot is around Mile 8 in Brooklyn.
No matter which marathon you choose to attend, remember that most cities will see an influx of visitors during the weekend of the race, which can mean less hotel and flight options.
Jennifer Jope
© Cheapflights Ltd
Updated September 2008
