The Chicago Marathon is one of the six World Marathon Majors, and on race morning the whole city turns into a course that runs through dozens of neighborhoods before coming back to Grant Park. You don't need a bib to take part: the crowds along the route are part of what makes this race famous. After the finish, the 27th Mile Post-Race Party in Butler Field is open to the public.
What to expect
The professional and wheelchair starts go off around 7:20 to 7:30 AM on Ida B. Wells Drive, followed by the waves of amateur runners. The finish is on Columbus Drive south of Balbo Drive. Expect street closures across the course and packed trains all morning.
Good to know
- The race starts at 7:30 AM; the wheelchair and handcycle starts go off a few minutes earlier.
- The 27th Mile Post-Race Party in Butler Field is open to the public from 9:30 AM to 4 PM, with food and drinks for sale.
- Take the CTA; the organizers warn that drivers face heavy traffic and street closures on race day.
- Pick a spot away from the start and finish, where the crowds are thinner, to see the runners.
- The free Abbott Health & Fitness Expo runs at McCormick Place through Saturday.
Going? Keep it.
Also in Downtown, the Loop & West Loop
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Common questions
Where are the start and finish?
Both are in Grant Park: the start on Ida B. Wells Drive and the finish on Columbus Drive south of Balbo Drive.
Is there a party after the race?
Yes. The 27th Mile Post-Race Party in Butler Field is open to the public from 9:30 AM to 4 PM.