Chicago Marathon Route 2026: Full Course Map And Neighborhoods

Hey there, runner! Grab a coffee, pull up a chair, and let's chat about the Chicago Marathon route, 2026 edition. You know, the one that's got us all buzzing like bees around a honey pot. So, what's new with you? Oh, right, we're talking marathon routes!

So, where are we off to?

Well, grab your map, because we're going on a little tour of the Windy City. The start line? That's at Grant Park, right by the Buckingham Fountain. You know, the one that's been making a splash since 1927. Isn't she a beauty?

Now, let's get rolling!

First stop, we're heading north on Columbus Drive. You'll pass by the Art Institute, so keep an eye out for the famous lions, Lion and Lioness, if you can spot them amidst the cheering crowd. Then, we're hanging a left onto Monroe Street, heading west. You'll pass by the historic Chicago Theatre, all lit up and ready for its close-up.

Next up, we're turning south on State Street. This is where the city really starts to show off. You'll run past the iconic Wrigley Building, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Cubs at Wrigley Field. Home run, anyone?

Time for a change of scenery

Alright, we're turning left onto 35th Street, heading east. This is where things start to get a little... industrial. Don't worry, it's all part of the charm. You'll pass by the old U.S. Steel complex, now a bustling neighborhood known as the South Loop. It's like running through history, isn't it?

Chicago Marathon course route: Full map from start to finish – NBC Chicago

Now, we're turning north onto Lake Shore Drive. This is where the lakefront magic happens. You'll run past the Museum of Science and Industry, and if you squint just right, you might see the real Sears Tower (okay, okay, it's the Willis Tower now, but we all know what it really is).

Home stretch!

We're turning west onto Roosevelt Road, then north onto Michigan Avenue. This is the final stretch, folks! You'll pass by the historic Chicago Riverwalk, and if you're feeling poetic, you might even think about how far you've come. But let's be real, you're probably just thinking about that finish line medal.

Chicago Marathon 2022 Course Map

And there you have it! We're back at Grant Park, where it all began. You've run 26.2 miles, seen the best of Chicago, and earned yourself a serious pat on the back. So, how about that coffee? You've earned it, runner!

Until next time, keep those feet moving and that heart pumping. Chicago 2026, here we come!