Runners look forward to fall marathons and for a good reason! It’s the time when the weather is ideal for racing because there truly is nothing like running when the temps have dropped after a long summer. If you’re planning your schedule, here are some of the best Fall marathons from runner feedback to help you decide.
With mild, beautiful weather in most parts of the US, it’s no wonder that October and November marathons are so popular with runners. And when we first think of fall marathons, the one that pops up in our mind is usually the iconic New York City Marathon.
And it all starts in February with the drawing of the New York City marathon lottery. The moment when you find out if you need to revise your fall marathon training plan year or if you get to pound the pavement through one of the most well-known cities in the US.
If your name wasn’t pulled this year, have no fear!
You can still enjoy an early fall marathon to keep you on the same training schedule, have fun, and possibly BQ if that’s your goal!
Nope, this list doesn’t include Chicago Marathon either, let’s think outside the big lottery races to give you a better chance at planning ahead for a goal race.
So, no matter which particular race you choose, fall marathons are a great way to stay active and challenge yourself, and I’m sure you’re going to find the best fall marathon for you in this article. So lace up your shoes and get ready to hit the pavement!
11 Best Fall Marathons for 2024
As noted these are races that I pulled based on tons of feedback from runners that we coach 1:1 and from so many on Instagram who have sent me their favorites.
1. Charlotte Marathon
Date: November 15, 2025
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Profile: Rolling Hills
Type: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
Sunny skies and ideal temperature along with some hills are the perfect way to describe Charlotte Marathon.
Every November, this annual race is held in Charlotte, North Carolina. It’s one day that will feature three different races, including a marathon, a half marathon, and a 5K with almost 9,600 runners.
The Queen City’s distinctive tree-lined streets, historic sites, significant sporting arenas, and the most diverse neighborhood parties are just a few of the sights and sounds that runners encounter in the Southeast’s fastest-growing city.
The race ends at Romare Bearden Park, which is in the middle of Uptown Charlotte. It’s a race for all runners because there are things to do along the course, big names at the finish line festival, and five distance options.
Discover a race day experience that is ideal for every objective, whether you are crossing the finish line after 3.1 or 26.2 miles.
Here’s what Peanut Butter Runner has to say about the race:
The first few miles of this race are pretty chill as they feature a lot of downhill. This is a huge tease for ALL.THE.HILLS that you have to run to get back into Uptown at the finish. Downtown Charlotte is called Uptown because it’s built on a giant hill and is elevated above most of the city.
2. Indianapolis Monumental Marathon
Date: November 8, 2025
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Profile: Mostly Flat
Type: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
The Indy Monumental Marathon course is flat and fast, with a few minor hills, most notably between miles 15 and 18. The Monumental Marathon is an excellent course for personal records and for qualifying for the Boston Marathon due to its relatively flat terrain and typical race day temperatures and humidity levels.
It’s one of the top 15 largest marathons in the United States, this event is held annually in the heart of Indianapolis with about 16,000 runners across all races. Running through the streets of downtown is one of the most beautiful parts of this race. At this time of year, the beautiful fall colors also make the neighborhoods a sight to see.
The Monumental Marathon does not require runners to participate in any kind of lottery in order to sign up for the race, making it an especially attractive option for individuals who are interested in running a larger race but do not want to deal with the uncertainty of an online lottery.
The State Capitol in Indianapolis serves as both the starting and ending point for this annual race. One advantage of a downtown start is that participants can warm up in the convention center before the race begins. This is especially helpful since race mornings in the Midwest can become quite chilly.
The support from spectators is fantastic at this race, and the volunteers who come out to cheer on the runners are incredibly enthusiastic about assisting you in maintaining your momentum.
Indianapolis is the place to go if you want to run a flat and fast midwest marathon.
Here’s what Detroit Runner has to say about the race:
I originally chose this course because it was so flat. There were a few rolling hills but really you could not get much flatter of a course. There were spectators throughout the whole course but more so as you made your way back downtown.
At mile 11, there were some really nice homes in the area. In fact, there was not really much of the race that was not in a nice area. It really showcased the city’s great parts and whoever designed the course did an excellent job.
3. Philadelphia Marathon
Date: November 24, 2025
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Profile: Mostly Flat
Type: Mostly Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
The course of the Philadelphia Marathon is beautiful and will keep you interested and involved the entire time. The 26 miles of this autumn marathon take runners through bustling downtown areas, past dozens of historic sites, along Kelly drive and into the town of Manayunk before hitting the turnaround back to the Philadelphia Art Musuem.
This fall marathon will not disappoint as it is consistently one of the top 10 most popular marathons in the United States. In 2024, the entire race weekend sold out, so if you’re on the fence for this year we suggest registering early.
The entire city is buzzing with excitement throughout race weekend. You can take part in the marathon, a combo of events for a challenge or for family and friends there’s an 8k and half marathon distance on Saturday.
Join 17,000 runners and run through the iconic streets of Philadelphia celebrating the biggest 26.2 mile party!
It’s my personal favorite marathon of all that I’ve done! Yes, I’d even choose to do it again over Honolulu.
From Run to the Finish Coach, Stacey:
The Philadelphia Marathon was my first marathon in 2018. I always looked forward to this race weekend every year because the city comes alive with all of the excitement and runners every where. Unlike other races in Philadelphia, this is one of the few that will take you through the historic parts of the city, college campuses, neighborhoods and along Kelly Drive where the majority of locals will spend their time training.
If you’re looking for a race as your first marathon, the Philadelphia Marathon (half and even 8k) will welcome you with open arms and memories that you’ll cherish forever.
You can read our full Philadelphia Marathon Course and Tips >>
4. Hartford Marathon
Date: October 11, 2025
Location: Hartford, CT
Profile: Rolling Hills
Type: Mostly Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
With stunning views of the Connecticut River and the historic New England architecture of South Windsor’s Old Main Street, the Hartford Marathon is a great way to experience these revitalized riverfront areas of Hartford and East Hartford. This race isn’t as big as some of the others on this list, with around 9,300 for the entire weekend including the marathon, half and 5k races.
Confession this one is on my possible list! It just seems so pretty!
Here is what Live Run Grow had to share:
One of the things I really liked about this race was the on-course support on bikes – there were actually volunteers biking up and down the course not just as course monitors, but they had gels, medical supplies, and water readily available if you needed it!
At around mile 20 I asked one if he had Vaseline or glide since I was chafing a bit and he said he didn’t but he’d go get some and come back – he biked away and 2 minutes later he showed back up and handed me a little packet, it was awesome!
Gear check was up a hill towards where the starting line was and I was not particularly looking forward to that walk – not that it was long, it was just up a hill.
Well, that Hartford Marathon had thought of that too! Right at the bottom of the hill, there was a line of golf carts giving rides up the hill to bag check – seriously one of the best race day runner services I’ve ever seen!
5. Richmond Marathon
Date: November 15, 2025
Location: Richmond, VA
Profile: Rolling Hills
Type: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
Richmond, Virginia’s annual marathon, appropriately dubbed ‘America’s Friendliest Marathon,’ is celebrated for its enthusiastic spectators, beautiful fall scenery, and exciting riverfront finish. The race weekend features a full marathon, in addition to a half marathon and an 8K race. The weekend usually sees around 20,000 runners, with the marathon capped at 10,000!!
The course for the Richmond marathon begins at Grace Street and 5th Street in the city center and winds through historic districts, the Virginia Commonwealth University campus, and finally along the world-famous James River. The stunning fall foliage makes for a picturesque setting for the entire marathon distance.
In November, Virginia’s weather is frequently perfect for runners, with race day highs around 50 degrees. Along the course, there are two ‘junk food’ stops with soda and candy for runners, as well as three ‘party zones’ with additional food, prizes, and encouragement.
A post-race party is held right along the James River’s Canal Walk where runners cross the finish line.
Here are some thoughts from The Right Fits:
The course has some serious rolling hills and a significant uphill around mile 16, but there was also plenty of downhill. In fact, the finish was a CRAZY downhill- LOVED it! The course went through some very beautiful neighborhoods with some gorgeous historic homes. It also showed off all the fall colors along the James River. So pretty. It crossed over two bridges, which were a little tough mentally (and very windy!) but still a really nice course.
6. Twin Cities Marathon
Date: October 5, 2025
Location: St. Paul, MN
Profile: Rolling Hills
Type: Point to Point
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
The Twin Cities Marathon is a popular fall marathon option and is consistently one of the largest marathons in the United States. The course is unique in that it passes through two major Minnesota cities, namely St. Paul and Minneapolis. since why it’s named Twin Cities.
The route is a point-to-point route that starts near the US Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis and ends at the State Capitol in Saint Paul. The course goes on both sides of the Mississippi River and around four lakes. It’s predominantly flat with a few rolling hills scattered throughout. However, there aren’t any major hills to climb.
The entire weekend is full of events ranging from a 5k, 10k, 10 miler, half marathon, marathon and multiple challenges! This fall marathon presents the ideal chance to take the whole family away for the weekend and get everyone involved in the festivities.
There’s a reason this marathon is on our list and it typically sells out with 8,000 runners for the marathon distance and an estimated 28,000 registrants across all races!
Some thoughts from Kosiapo:
This fall race brings about the best. The course has its challenges like rolling hills, beautiful fall scenery, and visual appeals including rounding up three lakes heading into the state’s capital. The spectators lining the entire route means boredom is out of the question. Soak in the usual “Minnesota Nice” atmosphere.
7. Baltimore Marathon
Date: October 18, 2025
Location: Baltimore, MD
Profile: Hilly
Type: Mostly Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
This is another full weekend of fun running events for the entire family. The Baltimore Running Festival has everything from a 5k, 10k, half and full marathon. Plus there’s some fun challenges where you can earn all of the bling!
The Baltimore Marathon course is moderately challenging, consisting of a combination of two hilly to rolling segments separated by six miles of flat terrain.
The course goes through many different neighborhoods, such as the beautiful waterfront area of Inner Harbor, the historic Federal Hill neighborhood, and Fells Point. The route also goes right by the penguin exhibit at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.
The miles 16–20 have been compared to Boston’s ‘Heartbreak Hill,’ but the course does reward runners with a loop around Lake Montebello, which is relatively flat. The last 5 miles are predominantly downhill.
The route then returns downtown for an inspiring finish through Camden Yards, home of the Baltimore Orioles. Runners finish their races on Raven’s Walk, which is near M&T Bank Stadium, where the Baltimore Ravens play.
The entire race weekend will see about 13,000 runners! If you’re looking for a smaller marathon with a big feel, add this to your list!
8. California International Marathon
Date: December 7, 2025
Location: Sacramento, CA
Profile: Downhill
Type: Point to Point
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
The CIM race is one of the most popular in the United States and for good reason! The course features a net drop in elevation, making it an ideal location to set a new personal record (PR), qualify for the Boston Marathon or the Olympic Trials.
This marathon has more than 10,000 marathon finishers each year, so you won’t be running it by yourself at any point. This race boasts a high probability of nearly perfect running weather on race day, with temperatures in the mid-50s expected in California toward the end of the year, making it an ideal time to go for a run.
Not ready to fully commit to the 26.2 distance but still want to experience the CIM magic? Create a relay team and complete the distance together.
As you get ready for this race, make the most of your fall training and try to stay away from the intense heat of summer. The California International Marathon is the right choice for you if you want to compete in a larger marathon but would rather not be subject to the random chance of a lottery.
Here are some thoughts from RickSawThat:
This is an epic race with some really fast runners who will inspire you and pull you along. Be prepared for ALOT of rolling hills some bigger than you expect. This is truly a bucket list race – register early!
9. Marine Corps Marathon
Date: October 26, 2025
Location: Washington, D.C.
Profile: Mostly Flat
Type: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
The Marine Corps Marathon is one of the largest marathons in the United States and the world, and it is known for its flawless organization and beautiful course through Arlington, Virginia and the nation’s capital. This race attracts runners from all over the world with 63 different countries represented! This is one of the larger marathons on our list with around 24,000 participants.
As the name suggests, it is managed by the United States Marine Corps. The MCM, also known as ‘The People’s Marathon,’ is the largest marathon in the world without a cash prize and is regarded as ‘the best marathon for beginners.’
To participate in the Marine Corps Marathon, you must enter an online lottery, but with a quick turnaround for the results, you’ll know within weeks if you’ve been chosen.
Here are some thoughts from one of the 2024 pacers, Firas:
Pacing the @marinecorpsmarathon in Washington’s picturesque October felt so dreamy, trippy and fun. You get that incredible trust bond from fellow runners and crowds.. I just got all the energy from them; until it seemed effortless.. really; nothing like that feeling…
Get our full Marine Corps Marathon tips and breakdown >>
10. Detroit Free Press Marathon
Date: October 19, 2025
Location: Detroit, MI
Profile: Mostly Flat
Type: Loop
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
Get your passport ready because the Detroit Free Press Marathon is special because it allows runners to run into Canada and race internationally. Near the start of the race, you will cross the Ambassador Bridge into Windsor, Ontario, and then return through the tunnel to finish in Detroit.
This race weekend sells out and you can expect to run the 26.2 with 24,000 other runners! The course includes iconic Detroit elements such as the Woodbridge neighborhood, the District Detroit, Eastern Market, the Dequindre Cut, and a finish line at the foot of Campus Martius.
The nearly mile-long tunnel back to the United States makes this the only underwater marathon in the world.
There will be a large number of spectators spread out across the entire course, in both Canada and the United States. Plus, you won’t have to wait outside for as long if you take advantage of the pre-race facilities that are conveniently located within walking distance of the start of the race.
In addition to the marathon, the weekend is filled with events like the 1-mile, 5k, half marathon, relay and different challenges.
Here are some thoughts from NJBanker:
This was such a well organized and pleasant run. Such a unique experience to run over the Ambassador Bridge to Canada and return through the Detroit Windsor Tunnel. The race was relatively flat with only the onramps and offramps posing a challenge. The race toured downtown, the suburbs and some of the outskirt manufacturing areas. The crowds were great! There were only a few miles that were sparse but I will never forget leaving the tunnel, passing through the boarder patrol terminal and a hug crowd erupting as you enter downtown Detroit. Great race all together!
11. Wineglass Marathon
Date: October 5, 2025
Location: Corning, NY
Profile: Downhill
Type: Point to Point
Boston Qualifier?: Yes
The Wineglass Marathon is a point-to-point race that runs from Bath, New York to downtown Corning, New York. Don’t worry about getting to the starting line, the race will provide buses that morning!
Join 2,000 runners on a relatively flat and fast course with a net elevation loss of approximately 200 feet. The race goes through a few small towns and along some beautiful country roads.
Since there will be multiple races over the course of the weekend, every member of your family will be able to take part in at least one of them. Who knows, Bart Yasso may even read your name out as you cross over the finish line!
Take advantage of this course’s low elevation and quick pace while competing alongside 2,000 other runners. The entire weekend will see almost 6,500 runners!
This race is one of the most beautiful marathons in New York, so it’s a great reason to take a fall trip with your family.
A few thoughts from first time marathoner, Zappy009:
Once I was ready to take on my first marathon, I knew all the conditions would have to be perfect to make it as smooth an experience as possible: flatter course, cooler weather, pleasant scenery, stress-free logistics. It didn’t take long to find out Wineglass would be the best fit. After crossing the finish line, that opinion still stands – this is a solid choice for a first marathon.
So there you have it. Some options to still get your racecation on for 26.2, have a great time, and look at it as practice for hopefully getting into the lottery next year!
You can’t go wrong with any of these marathons, whether running a fall marathon is part of your annual routine or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Looking for more marathon training help?
- Details about 1:1 Coaching
- Sub 4 Hour Marathon Training Plan
- How to Fuel a Marathon
- What to Wear for a Marathon based on Temperatures
- What Are the Marathon Majors
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