2026 New York City Marathon
November 1, 2026 All day
The 2026 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 2026 New York City Marathon?
The 2026 New York City Marathon will take place on Sunday, November 1, 2026. 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 2026 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 2026 New York City Marathon
Entry into the New York City Marathon is highly sought after and offered through several methods. You can visit the official entry page for more details.
- Non-Guaranteed Entry Drawing (Lottery): The application period for the general drawing will be open from February 4 – 25, 2026. The drawing for accepted entries will take place on March 4, 2026.
- 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 2026 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 2026 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 2026 New York City Marathon
New York City offers a vast range of accommodations. The best areas to stay are near Central Park or in Midtown, offering maximum convenience for race weekend. Staying in these areas puts you within short distance of the Finish Line while offering access to the city’s best food and tourist sites.
- Upper West Side (UWS) / Central Park South: This area offers the closest proximity to the Finish Line and the post-race family meeting area in Central Park.
- Example: The Mandarin Oriental, New York (Central Park South) or the Hotel Beacon (UWS) are located near the final miles of the race and provide the ultimate post-race convenience.
- Midtown Manhattan (Times Square / Hell’s Kitchen): A short subway ride away from the park, offering superior access to the marathon expo (usually at the Javits Center) and the city’s main transit hubs.
- Example: The New York Marriott Marquis or the Hyatt Centric Midtown 5th Avenue provide central locations near major subway lines and attractions.
- Booking Tips:
- Book Early: Hotels fill up quickly for marathon weekend.
- Check Transport Links: Ensure your hotel is close to a subway station (especially the 1, A, C, D lines) 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.
Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to the 2026 New York City Marathon
Last Updated on December 16, 2025 by Sports Tourist