The United States is well-known for hosting some of the best marathons, with thousands of events organised throughout the country each year. From scenic trails to urban routes, there’s a marathon for every type of runner in the USA. Here are some of the best USA marathons 2025 to your running bucket list.
Marathons are a type of long-distance running event that tests a runner’s physical endurance and mental strength. The standard distance of a marathon is 26.2 miles (42.195 kilometres), and it is considered one of the most challenging and prestigious running events in the world. Marathons are held in various locations around the globe, attracting runners of all levels, from beginners to elite athletes. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner or just starting, completing a marathon is a significant achievement that requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance.
Participating in a marathon is not just about the race day itself; it involves months of marathon training, careful planning, and a strong commitment to the sport. Many runners find the journey to the marathon finish line to be a transformative experience, pushing their limits and discovering new strengths. The sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a marathon is unparalleled, making it a bucket list race for many.
The history of marathons dates back to ancient Greece, where the first recorded marathon took place in 490 BCE. According to legend, a Greek messenger named Pheidippides ran from the town of Marathon to Athens to deliver news of a Greek victory over the Persians. This legendary run covered approximately 25 miles, and Pheidippides is said to have collapsed and died shortly after delivering his message.
The modern marathon was established in 1896 at the first modern Olympic Games in Athens, Greece. The race was inspired by the ancient legend and aimed to commemorate Pheidippides’ historic run. The distance of the marathon was initially set at around 25 miles, but it was standardised to 26.2 miles (42.195 kilometres) in 1908 during the London Olympics. This change was made to accommodate the British royal family, allowing the race to start at Windsor Castle and finish in front of the royal box at the Olympic Stadium.
Since then, marathons have grown in popularity and are now held in almost every country around the world. They have become a symbol of endurance and perseverance, attracting runners who seek to challenge themselves and achieve personal milestones. Marathons also serve as a platform for raising money for charity, promoting health and fitness, and bringing communities together.
The USA is home to some of the most prestigious marathons in the world, known as the “majors”, which attract elite marathon runners and enthusiastic amateurs alike. Completing all seven is considered a significant achievement in the running community. The USA hosts three of these iconic World Major Marathons, they include:
The World Marathon Majors series comprises the most prestigious marathons globally, emphasising elite competition and community engagement.
The Boston Marathon, established in 1897, holds the distinction of being the oldest marathon in the United States. Renowned worldwide, it continues to draw runners from across the globe, united by the spirit of competition and tradition. The 2025 edition of this legendary race will mark its 129th year, making it one of the most historic running events globally. The Boston Marathon is a point-to-point course that starts in Hopkinton and ends at Copley Square in downtown Boston, taking participants through eight different cities and towns along the way. Runners must meet strict qualifying times to participate in this prestigious event.
The Boston Marathon holds a special place in the hearts of runners worldwide, symbolising resilience and dedication to the sport. As a prestigious World Marathon Major, the Boston Marathon’s legacy continues to have a profound impact on the sport of marathon running.
The New York City Marathon, founded in 1970, is one of the most iconic and sought-after marathons in the world. This event brings together runners from over 100 countries, making it a truly international race. Beginning as a local event in 1970, the New York City Marathon has grown to become the world’s largest marathon, attracting over 50,000 participants each year.
The course takes participants through all five boroughs of New York City, starting at Staten Island and ending at Central Park. Along with the breathtaking views of famous landmarks such as the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and Times Square, this marathon also boasts an incredible atmosphere, with millions of spectators cheering for runners along the route.
For many runners, crossing the finish line in Central Park symbolises achieving one of their biggest running goals. The New York City Marathon is not only a celebration of running but also a celebration of the diverse and vibrant city of NYC.
Known for being one of the flattest and fastest marathon courses, the Chicago Marathon is a popular choice among runners looking to achieve a personal best time on its flat course. This event takes participants through 29 diverse neighbourhoods in Chicago, showcasing the city’s unique architecture and vibrant culture along the way.
The Chicago Marathon also holds a special place in women’s running history as it was the first major marathon to offer equal prize money for men and women. It continues to promote gender equality and inclusivity in sports, making it a truly exceptional event.
This marathon is typically held on the second Sunday in October, making it a key event in the fall marathon calendar. Every year, more than a million spectators flock to support the runners, creating an electric atmosphere throughout the city.
If you’re looking for a marathon with breathtaking views and refreshing sea breezes, the USA has many options to offer. Some of the most scenic coastal marathons include:
The Space Coast Marathon in Cocoa, Florida, is a picturesque race that takes participants along the scenic Atlantic coast. The course runs through historic Cocoa Village and beautiful beachside communities before ending at Riverfront Park. Runners can enjoy views of the iconic Kennedy Space Centre and even spot a rocket launch if they’re lucky!
The 2025 Space Coast Marathon & Half Marathon marks the 54th edition of Florida’s oldest marathon. Open to both runners and walkers, this event offers participants the chance to enjoy one of the most scenic USATF-certified waterfront courses along Florida’s east coast.
Set against the backdrop of the iconic Kennedy Space Centre, the race embraces an exciting space theme, creating a unique and inspiring experience for all who take part.
The Big Sur International Marathon is renowned for its challenging yet stunning course along the California coastline. This marathon offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Coast Highway, with rocky cliffs on one side and the vast ocean on the other. Its tagline is “Running on the ragged edge of the Western world”.
Starting in Big Sur and ending in Carmel-by-the-Sea, this scenic route showcases some of California’s most beautiful landscapes, including Bixby Bridge and Point Lobos State Reserve. The 26.2-mile journey also includes rolling hills and a few steep climbs, making it a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience for runners.
The Honolulu Marathon is one of the world’s largest marathons, attracting over 30,000 participants each year. Held on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, this marathon features stunning ocean views and a warm tropical climate that makes for ideal running conditions. The Honolulu Marathon is not just a race but a full race weekend experience, with various events and festivities that attract participants from around the world.
Starting at Ala Moana Beach Park and finishing in Kapiolani Park, the course traverses through downtown Honolulu and past iconic landmarks such as Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach. The race concludes with a festive finish line celebration featuring live music and Hawaiian performances.
This event also offers participants an opportunity to combine their love for running with a vacation to paradise, making it a popular choice for runners all over the world.
In addition to the major marathons and scenic coastal runs, the USA also offers a variety of smaller races with unique themes and historical significance. They provide runners with opportunities to connect with history and culture, enhancing the running experience. One notable event is the Indy Mini-Marathon, a half marathon tied to the Indianapolis 500, offering a scenic tour of the city and a lap on the iconic motor speedway. Some notable examples include:
The Pikes Peak Marathon is not your average marathon. Established in 1956, this marathon is the oldest continuously held in the United States. Starting in Manitou Springs, Colorado, runners face a challenging 26.2-mile course that ascends to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak—one of the tallest peaks in the Rocky Mountains—and descends back to the starting point. This iconic race is a true test of endurance and resilience, offering breathtaking views and gruelling terrain.
Known as “America’s Ultimate Challenge”, this marathon requires runners to climb over 7,800 feet in elevation, with the finish line situated at an altitude of 14,115 feet above sea level. Along with the physical challenge, runners also get to experience stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys during their ascent.
The Marine Corps Marathon is a unique and prestigious event that takes place in the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. Each year, this race brings together thousands of runners to honour and support the men and women of the United States Marine Corps. Runners enjoy a well-organised event recognised for its impeccable execution, with no prize money offered, emphasising completion over competition.
Starting at Arlington National Cemetery and ending at the iconic Marine Corps War Memorial, this marathon offers a scenic route that passes by many historical landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, Capitol Building, and White House. The finish line ceremony includes a parade of military personnel and special performances, making it a truly unforgettable experience for participants.
The Hatfield McCoy Marathon is a unique race that takes runners through the historic sites of the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud in West Virginia and Kentucky. This marathon is a celebration of the rich history, culture, and scenic beauty of southern Appalachia.
The event commemorates the infamous feud between the Hatfields and McCoys, adding a unique historical and cultural layer to the marathon experience. The course starts at Matewan, West Virginia—where the feud began—and ends in Williamson, West Virginia. Along with passing by historical landmarks such as the Devil Anse Memorial Hatfield Cemetery and Randolph McCoy Homeplace, runners also experience picturesque views of forests, rivers, and mountains along this hilly route. The marathon features a difficult and scenic route that tests the endurance of participants, incorporating the rugged terrain of the Appalachian mountains.
Many marathons in the USA are not just about running but also about bringing together communities and supporting meaningful causes. These events often have a charitable focus, with proceeds going towards various non-profit organisations. Some of these races include:
The Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon is a beloved event that has become an annual tradition for many runners. This race takes place in Cincinnati, Ohio, and features a fun and festive atmosphere with participants dressed up as pigs—an ode to the city’s nickname, “Porkopolis”.
The course showcases the scenic beauty of Cincinnati, taking runners through various neighbourhoods and landmarks such as Fountain Square and Eden Park. Participants also get to experience some challenging hills along the way, earning themselves bragging rights for completing “the best hills you’ll never want to run again”. The Flying Pig Marathon supports over 250 charities each year, making it a great opportunity for runners to make a positive impact in their community while pursuing their love for running.
This combination of a fun atmosphere, scenic course, and strong community support makes the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon a must-run event.
The Twin Cities Marathon is one of the most popular marathons in the USA, attracting over 30,000 runners each year. This race takes place in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota, showcasing the beauty of these twin cities.
What makes this marathon unique is its commitment to sustainability and community involvement. The event features a zero-waste program that diverts over 90% of waste from landfills through recycling and composting efforts. Proceeds from the marathon also go towards supporting various local charities, including youth programs and environmental initiatives.
Along with promoting a healthy lifestyle through running, the Twin Cities Marathon also prioritises making a positive impact in the community, making it a race that embodies the spirit of giving back.
For runners looking for a different kind of challenge, there are marathons in the USA that take place at high elevations, putting participants to the test both mentally and physically. Runners often find the second half of these high-elevation marathons particularly challenging, as they tackle steep climbs and thinner air.
The Leadville Trail Marathon is another iconic event that takes place in Colorado. Known as “the race across the sky”, this marathon has a maximum elevation of over 13,000 feet and features challenging terrain, including steep climbs and descents on mountain trails.
This marathon is not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare to take on the challenge, the reward is breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and a sense of accomplishment like no other. This marathon emphasises self-sufficiency as participants navigate high-altitude trails that can test their endurance and resourcefulness.
The Leadville Trail Marathon also supports various charities and has partnered with local organisations to support environmental preservation efforts, making it a race that not only tests your physical limits but also supports a good cause.
For those looking to enjoy a marathon experience with their family, there are several options in the USA that cater to both serious runners and casual participants:
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is an event that combines the magic of Disney with the thrill of running. With races for all ages and levels, from kids’ dashes to a full marathon, this weekend is a celebration of fitness, fun, and friendship.
Participants get to run through various Disney theme parks, such as Magic Kingdom and Epcot, accompanied by characters and entertainment along the way. This event also supports various charitable organisations, including the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Participants are encouraged to wear costumes, adding a festive and fun element to the marathon experience. The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is not only a marathon but also a magical experience for families and friends to create unforgettable memories while supporting meaningful causes.
The St. Jude Marathon in Memphis, Tennessee, is another family-friendly event that combines running with a cause. This marathon is the largest single-day fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, raising millions of dollars each year to support its mission of treating and finding cures for childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
Participants can choose to run a full marathon, half marathon, or 5k race, each showcasing different landmarks throughout Memphis. The atmosphere is festive and supportive, with volunteers cheering on participants along the way.
Not only does the St. Jude Marathon promote a healthy lifestyle and community involvement, but it also serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting organisations that make a positive impact on people’s lives.
For runners looking to achieve their personal best times, there are several marathons in the USA known for their flat course and fast pace, perfect for breaking records:
The Monumental Marathon in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a popular choice among runners aiming for a personal best time on its flat course. The course is known for its flat terrain and wide streets, making it an ideal race for beginners and experienced runners alike. The course of the Monumental Marathon is designed to be fast and scenic, making it appealing for those targeting Boston qualifying times.
Not only does this marathon offer a chance to set new records, but it also supports various local charities, including schools and organisations that promote healthy living. With the support of the community and fellow runners, participants can push themselves to achieve their goals while giving back to those in need. Many runners appreciate the Monumental Marathon for its urban setting, which provides a vibrant atmosphere throughout the race.
For runners who are up for a unique challenge, there are marathons in the USA that take place in desert and rugged environments, offering a one-of-a-kind experience combining challenging landscapes with breathtaking views:
The Moab Trail Marathon in Moab, Utah, is an event that showcases the stunning landscapes of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. With challenging terrain and an elevation gain of over 3,500 feet, this marathon is not for the faint of heart. However, for those who dare to take on the challenge, the reward is running through breathtaking canyons and arches carved by nature. The second half of the Moab Trail Marathon is particularly challenging, with steep climbs and technical terrain that test the endurance of even the most experienced runners.
The Moab Trail Marathon also offers a half marathon option, catering to runners of different skill levels. This event also supports various local charities and promotes responsible trail-running practices to preserve the natural environment. With its unique setting and challenging course, the Moab Trail Marathon is an unforgettable experience for any adventurous runner.
The Shiprock Marathon in Shiprock, New Mexico, is another race that takes place in a rugged and remote landscape. The course runs through the Navajo Nation and showcases the iconic Shiprock rock formation, known as the “Winged Rock” by local Native American tribes.
With its high elevation and rocky terrain, this marathon is considered one of the toughest races in the USA. However, runners are rewarded with majestic views of the desert landscape and a sense of accomplishment for conquering such a challenging course. The Shiprock Marathon also supports various Native American charities, making it not only a physically demanding race but also a culturally significant event. The Shiprock Marathon offers runners a unique experience amidst the breathtaking desert scenery of New Mexico.
The Catalina Island Marathon in Avalon, California, is a race that takes place on the beautiful Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California. This marathon offers a unique running experience characterised by its challenging trails, breathtaking views, and opportunities to see local wildlife. Runners often find the second half of the Catalina Island Marathon particularly challenging as they navigate the rugged hills and stunning coastline views.
The course winds through rugged hills and stunning coastline views, providing runners with an invigorating challenge.
With its unique island setting and challenging terrain, the Catalina Island Marathon offers runners a memorable experience unlike any other. This event also supports local charities and promotes sustainable practices to preserve the beauty of Catalina Island. For runners looking for a different kind of marathon experience, the Catalina Island Marathon is one to consider.
In addition to traditional marathons, there are many speciality marathons that offer unique experiences for runners. These events cater to different interests and preferences, providing a diverse range of challenges and settings:
A half marathon is a running event that covers a distance of 13.1 miles (21.0975 kilometres). Half marathons are a popular option for runners who are new to long-distance running or who want to test their endurance without committing to a full marathon. They offer a similar experience to full marathons but with a more manageable distance, making them accessible to a wider range of participants.
Half marathons are often held in conjunction with full marathons, allowing runners to choose the distance that best suits their goals and fitness levels. Many runners use half marathons as a stepping stone to full marathons, gradually building their endurance and confidence. The training required for a half marathon is less intensive than that for a full marathon, making it an ideal choice for those with busy schedules or those looking to ease into long-distance running.
Some popular half marathons in the USA include the Chicago Half Marathon, the Boston Half Marathon, and the New York City Half Marathon. These events offer the same excitement and atmosphere as their full marathon counterparts, with the added benefit of a shorter distance. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best time or simply looking to enjoy the experience, a half marathon is a fantastic way to challenge yourself and celebrate your love for running.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner looking to tackle a new challenge or a beginner wanting to participate in your first marathon, the USA has something to offer for everyone. From fast and flat courses to rugged and scenic landscapes, these marathons not only provide an opportunity for runners to achieve their personal bests but also support meaningful causes and promote healthy lifestyles.
So why wait? Secure your spot in a 2025 USA Marathon today and be part of an unforgettable running experience while making a positive impact. See you at the finish line!
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