At South Street Seaport, kids in superhero capes dash through the Superhero Sprint before runners take on a 5K and families follow on the Empower Walk. Autism Speaks blends its long-running walk with race-day energy, so all ages and abilities are welcome, from serious runners to strollers to the sidelines. If autism touches your family or friends, this is the weekend's most welcoming way to show up for them.
What to expect
Arrive at the Seaport piers to a registration area, team gatherings and resource tables where you can connect with autism service organizations. The morning runs through the kids' Superhero Sprint, an opening ceremony, the 5K and then the walk, closing with a final ceremony, plus low-key activities like making friendship bracelets.
Good to know
- Fulton Street station (2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, J, Z) is the closest subway; walk east toward the river to the piers.
- Register online in advance through Autism Speaks; online registration closes a couple of days before the event.
- Choose your pace: the timed 5K, the walk, or cheering from the sidelines all count.
- Kids can join the Superhero Sprint in capes, so bring young ones early.
- The piers are open to the river wind in October; bring a layer.
Going? Keep it.
More festivals that weekend
Common questions
Is there a run or just a walk?
Both. The Empower Walk + 5K Run pairs a timed 5K with a community walk, plus a short Superhero Sprint for kids.
Where exactly is it held?
At South Street Seaport along the East River, around Pier 16 and Pier 17 (89 South Street) in Lower Manhattan.