Runners stay up for fall marathons and for cause! It’s the time when the climate is right for racing as a result of there actually is nothing like operating when the temps have dropped after a protracted summer time. In case you’re planning your schedule, listed here are a few of the greatest Fall marathons from runner suggestions that will help you resolve.
With delicate, stunning climate in most components of the US, it’s no marvel that October and November marathons are so common with runners. And after we first consider fall marathons, the one which pops up in our thoughts is often the enduring New York Metropolis Marathon.
And all of it begins in February with the drawing of the New York Metropolis marathon lottery. The second if you discover out if you’ll want to revise your fall marathon coaching plan 12 months or should you get to pound the pavement by way of one of the well-known cities within the US.
In case your identify wasn’t pulled this 12 months, haven’t any concern!
You possibly can nonetheless get pleasure from an early fall marathon to maintain you on the identical coaching schedule, have enjoyable, and probably BQ if that’s your aim!
Nope, this listing doesn’t embrace Chicago Marathon both, let’s assume exterior the large lottery races to offer you a greater likelihood at planning forward for a aim race.
So, irrespective of which specific race you select, fall marathons are a good way to remain lively and problem your self, and I’m certain you’re going to search out the very best fall marathon for you on this article. So lace up your footwear and prepare to hit the pavement!
11 Finest Fall Marathons for 2024
As famous these are races that I pulled primarily based 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 ultimate temperature together with some hills are the right method to describe Charlotte Marathon.
Each November, this annual race is held in Charlotte, North Carolina. It’s someday that can 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, vital sporting arenas, and probably the most various neighborhood events are just some 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 midst of Uptown Charlotte. It’s a race for all runners as a result of there are issues to do alongside the course, huge names on the end line competition, and 5 distance choices.
Uncover a race day expertise that’s ultimate 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 in regards to the race:
The primary few miles of this race are fairly chill as they characteristic quite a lot of downhill. This can be a large tease for ALL.THE.HILLS that it’s important to run to get again into Uptown on the end. Downtown Charlotte is named 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: Largely Flat
Kind: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
The Indy Monumental Marathon course is flat and quick, with just a few minor hills, most notably between miles 15 and 18. The Monumental Marathon is a wonderful course for private information and for qualifying for the Boston Marathon as a result of its comparatively flat terrain and typical race day temperatures and humidity ranges.
It’s one of many prime 15 largest marathons in america, this occasion is held yearly within the coronary heart of Indianapolis with about 16,000 runners throughout all races. Working by way of the streets of downtown is likely one of the most stunning components of this race. Presently of 12 months, the attractive fall colours additionally make the neighborhoods a sight to see.
The Monumental Marathon doesn’t require runners to take part in any type of lottery so as to enroll in the race, making it an particularly engaging choice for people who’re all in favour of operating a bigger race however don’t need to cope with the uncertainty of a web-based 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 members can heat up within the conference heart earlier than the race begins. That is particularly useful since race mornings within the Midwest can turn out to be fairly chilly.
The assist from spectators is incredible at this race, and the volunteers who come out to cheer on the runners are extremely captivated with 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 in regards to the race:
I initially selected this course as a result of it was so flat. There have been just a few rolling hills however actually you could possibly not get a lot flatter of a course. There have been spectators all through the entire course however extra in order you made your approach again downtown.
At mile 11, there have been some very nice houses within the space. The truth is, there was probably not a lot of the race that was not in a pleasant space. It actually showcased the town’s nice components and whoever designed the course did a superb job.
3. Philadelphia Marathon
Date: November 24, 2025
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Profile: Largely Flat
Kind: Largely Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
The course of the Philadelphia Marathon is gorgeous and can hold you and concerned the complete time. The 26 miles of this autumn marathon take runners by way of 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 is not going to disappoint as it’s constantly one of many prime 10 hottest marathons in america. In 2024, the complete race weekend offered out, so should you’re on the fence for this 12 months we propose registering early.
The complete metropolis is buzzing with pleasure all through race weekend. You possibly can participate within the marathon, a combo of occasions for a problem or for household and mates there’s an 8k and half marathon distance on Saturday.
Be part of 17,000 runners and run by way of the enduring streets of Philadelphia celebrating the most important 26.2 mile get together!
It’s my private favourite marathon of all that I’ve finished! 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 at all times appeared ahead to this race weekend yearly as a result of the 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 can take you thru the historic components of the town, school campuses, neighborhoods and alongside Kelly Drive the place nearly all of locals will spend their time coaching.
In case you’re searching for a race as your first marathon, the Philadelphia Marathon (half and even 8k) will welcome you with open arms and recollections that you simply’ll cherish eternally.
You possibly can learn our full Philadelphia Marathon Course and Tips >>
4. Hartford Marathon
Date: October 11, 2025
Location: Hartford, CT
Profile: Rolling Hills
Kind: Largely Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
With gorgeous views of the Connecticut River and the historic New England structure of South Windsor’s Outdated Important Road, the Hartford Marathon is a good way to expertise these revitalized riverfront areas of Hartford and East Hartford. This race isn’t as huge as a few of the others on this listing, with round 9,300 for the complete weekend together with the marathon, half and 5k races.
Confession this one is on my doable listing! It simply appears so fairly!
Here’s what Reside 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 displays, however that they had gels, medical provides, and water available should 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 couple of minutes later he confirmed again up and handed me just a little packet, it was superior!
Gear examine was up a hill in direction of the place the beginning line was and I used to be not notably wanting ahead to that stroll – not that it was lengthy, it was simply up a hill.
Nicely, 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 examine – severely among the finest race day runner companies 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 widely 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 heart and winds by way of historic districts, the Virginia Commonwealth College campus, and eventually 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 ‘get together zones’ with further meals, prizes, and encouragement.
A post-race get together 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 Matches:
The course has some severe rolling hills and a big uphill round mile 16, however there was additionally loads of downhill. The truth is, the end was a CRAZY downhill- LOVED it! The course went by way of 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 just a little powerful 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 constantly one of many largest marathons in america. The course is exclusive in that it passes by way of 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 just a few rolling hills scattered all through. Nevertheless, there aren’t any main hills to climb.
The 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 listing and it usually 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 the very 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 ordinary “Minnesota Good” ambiance.
7. Baltimore Marathon
Date: October 18, 2025
Location: Baltimore, MD
Profile: Hilly
Kind: Largely Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
That is one other full weekend of enjoyable operating occasions for the complete household. The Baltimore Working Competition has all the pieces 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 mixture of two hilly to rolling segments separated by six miles of flat terrain.
The course goes by way of many various neighborhoods, equivalent to the attractive waterfront space of Interior 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 way of 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.
The complete race weekend will see about 13,000 runners! In case you’re searching for a smaller marathon with an enormous really feel, add this to your listing!
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 america and for good cause! The course includes a web drop in elevation, making it a super 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 annually, so that you received’t be operating it by your self at any level. This race boasts a excessive chance of almost excellent operating climate on race day, with temperatures within the mid-50s anticipated in California towards the tip of the 12 months, making it a super 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 staff and full the gap collectively.
As you prepare for this race, benefit from your fall coaching and attempt to avoid the extraordinary warmth of summer time. The California Worldwide Marathon is the precise alternative for you if you wish to compete in a bigger marathon however would relatively 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 larger than you count on. That is actually a bucket listing race – register early!
9. Marine Corps Marathon
Date: October 26, 2025
Location: Washington, D.C.
Profile: Largely Flat
Kind: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Sure
The Marine Corps Marathon is likely one of the largest marathons in america and the world, and it’s identified for its flawless group and exquisite course by way of 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 listing with round 24,000 members.
Because the identify suggests, it’s managed by america Marine Corps. The MCM, also called ‘The Folks’s Marathon,’ is the biggest marathon on the planet with out a money prize and is thought to be ‘the very best marathon for novices.’
To take part within the Marine Corps Marathon, you have to enter a web-based lottery, however with a fast turnaround for the outcomes, you’ll know inside weeks should 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 unbelievable belief bond from fellow runners and crowds.. I simply acquired all of the power 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: Largely 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 way of the tunnel to complete in Detroit.
This race weekend sells out and you’ll count on to run the 26.2 with 24,000 different runners! The course consists of iconic Detroit parts such because the Woodbridge neighborhood, the District Detroit, Japanese Market, the Dequindre Reduce, and a end line on the foot of Campus Martius.
The almost mile-long tunnel again to america makes this the one underwater marathon on the planet.
There will probably be a lot of spectators unfold out throughout the complete course, in each Canada and america. Plus, you received’t have to attend exterior for as lengthy should you make the most of the pre-race services which are conveniently positioned inside strolling distance of the beginning of the race.
Along with the marathon, the weekend is crammed 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 way of 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 a few of the outskirt manufacturing areas. The crowds have been nice! There have been only some miles that have been sparse however I’ll always remember leaving the tunnel, passing by way of 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 Bathtub, New York to downtown Corning, New York. Don’t fear about attending to the beginning line, the race will present buses that morning!
Be part of 2,000 runners on a comparatively flat and quick course with a web elevation lack of roughly 200 ft. The race goes by way of just a few small cities and alongside some stunning nation roads.
Since there will probably be a number of races over the course of the weekend, each member of your loved ones will be capable to participate in at the very least considered one of them. Who is aware of, Bart Yasso could 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. The complete weekend will see nearly 6,500 runners!
This race is likely one of the most stunning marathons in New York, so it’s an important 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 circumstances must be excellent to make it as easy an expertise as doable: flatter course, cooler climate, nice surroundings, stress-free logistics. It didn’t take lengthy to search out out Wineglass could be the very best match. After crossing the end line, that opinion nonetheless stands – this can be a stable alternative for a primary marathon.
So there you’ve gotten it. Some choices to nonetheless get your racecation on for 26.2, have a good time, and have a look at it as follow for hopefully moving into the lottery subsequent 12 months!
You possibly can’t go improper with any of those marathons, whether or not operating a fall marathon is a part of your annual routine or a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
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