2025 New York City Marathon
November 2 All day
The 2025 New York City Marathon is one of the world’s most iconic running events, a centerpiece of the Abbott World Marathon Majors series. Known for its challenging course that winds through all five boroughs, this race draws an international field of elite runners and tens of thousands of participants from around the globe. The marathon is as much a celebration of the city’s diverse communities as it is a test of athletic endurance, with millions of spectators creating an unforgettable block-party atmosphere.
When and Where is the 2025 New York City Marathon?
The 2025 New York City Marathon will take place on Sunday, November 2, 2025. The race starts on Staten Island and finishes in Central Park, Manhattan, with events and activities taking place throughout the city.
Race Format and Course Details of the 2025 New York City Marathon
The New York City Marathon is a single, 26.2-mile road race that takes runners through all five of the city’s boroughs: Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan. The course is known for its rolling hills and a series of challenging bridges, including the iconic Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge at the start.
The route offers a scenic tour of the city’s diverse neighborhoods, with highlights including the vibrant streets of Brooklyn, the Queensboro Bridge ascent into Manhattan, the spirited energy of First Avenue, and the final stretch through Central Park.
How to Participate in the 2025 New York City Marathon
Entry into the New York City Marathon is highly sought after and offered through several methods. The application period for the general lottery has already closed. However, there are still several ways to secure a spot. You can also visit the official entry page for more details.
- Charity Program: A popular way to gain entry is by committing to fundraising for one of the official charity partners. The minimum fundraising commitment varies by charity, but typically starts around $2,500.
- Time Qualifiers: Runners who have met specific time standards in a certified marathon can apply for guaranteed entry.
- The 9+1 Program: This program, managed by the New York Road Runners (NYRR), allows local runners to earn a guaranteed spot in the following year’s race by completing nine qualifying races and volunteering at one event within the same calendar year.
- International Tour Program: Runners who reside outside the U.S. can secure an entry through an official international tour partner.
Spectating the 2025 New York City Marathon
The New York City Marathon is free to watch, with an estimated one million spectators cheering on runners along the course. Spectators are not permitted at the start or on any of the course’s bridges. The best way to watch is to use the MTA subway to move between different points along the route.
Popular viewing spots and their nearby subway stations include:
- Miles 2-4 (Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn): This is one of the first major spectator spots after the bridge. Subway: R train to 77th Street.
- Miles 16-18 (First Avenue, Manhattan): This stretch is famous for its massive and energetic crowds. Subway: N, Q, R, 4, 5, 6, F trains.
- Miles 23-24 (Fifth Avenue, Manhattan): This is a crucial spot to cheer on runners before they enter Central Park for the finish. Subway: Q, 4, 5, 6 trains.
- Finish Line (Central Park): The finish area is in Central Park near the 72nd Street Transverse. Spectators can line the final miles inside the park.
Getting to the 2025 New York City Marathon
New York City is served by three major airports: LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The city’s extensive public transit system, the MTA, is the most efficient way to get around on race day.
- From Airports:
- LGA: The NYC Airporter shuttle offers direct service to Grand Central Terminal and Penn Station.
- JFK: The AirTrain connects to the LIRR or the subway system (A, E, J, or Z lines).
- EWR: The AirTrain connects to NJ Transit trains, which go to Penn Station in Manhattan.
- By Public Transit: The MTA subway and bus systems provide access to nearly every part of the city. Consider purchasing a MetroCard or using OMNY for contactless payment to navigate the system easily.
Where to Stay for the 2025 New York City Marathon
New York City offers a vast range of accommodations. Given the finish line’s location in Central Park, staying in Manhattan is a convenient choice. Booking well in advance is essential due to high demand.
- Booking Tips:
- Book Early: Hotels fill up quickly for marathon weekend.
- Check Transport Links: Ensure your hotel is close to a subway station for easy access to the course and race-day events.
- Read Reviews: Use reputable booking sites like TripAdvisor to check reviews for location and amenities.