One of the most historic races in the nation, the Philadelphia Marathon covers fast and mostly flat terrain, crossing the heart of Philadelphia and some of the city’s most iconic landmarks — including Independence Hall, the Betsy Ross House and the Liberty Bell.
The course passes along the charming streets of Old City on Penn’s Landing by the Delaware River, eventually arriving near the green and leafy pathways of the recently restored Fairmount Water Works, located on the Schuylkill River.
And this year, the Philadelphia Marathon is celebrating its 15th anniversary!
Racing in the City
Warm up for the race at the sports and fitness expo, held at Eakins Oval (in front of the Art Museum), where runners can pick up their gear and register on the Friday and Saturday before the race.
For kids: Aspiring young marathoners will enjoy the 7th annual Verizon Kids Fun Run, a series of non-competitive races for children ages 4 to 12 on Saturday, November 22. There will be plenty of prizes, new friends, and a fun way to break into the sport of running — plus the first 250 participants get lots of cool prizes!
Spectators can look forward to entertainment at a series of “Express Zones,” featuring food and music, at various points along the course. When the race is over, everyone can relax and enjoy the rest of the city’s vibrant nightlife — with a well-earned gourmet meal, some live music or an evening at the theater.