Dreaming of crossing the finish line in Central Park or racing across the Golden Gate Bridge? This guide covers the best marathons and half marathons in the U.S. and the world, including scenic races, fast courses, and unforgettable finish lines for every type of runner.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or running your first half marathon, this article is your one-stop destination. We’ll explore races that wind through national parks, city half marathons full of crowd support, and international marathons that offer unforgettable experiences.
The marathon and half marathon are more than races — they’re journeys. From first-time runners to seasoned athletes chasing new records, the experience of preparing for and completing a race day is unforgettable.
Runners and walkers alike enjoy the mix of personal achievement, community spirit, and often scenic running routes in the world. Whether it’s a city half marathon or a remote mountain half, the blend of challenge and beauty is unmatched.
Events like the New York City Marathon, the Philadelphia Half, or the San Francisco Half Marathon aren’t just popular—they’re symbolic of the broader running culture that connects people across cities, countries, and continents.
So what sets the best half marathon apart? Three things: course design, crowd energy, and location. A top half marathon race has a scenic route, great cheer support, and leaves runners saying, “I can’t wait to do that again!”
Take the Monterey Bay Half, often called America’s prettiest half marathon. With views of the Pacific Ocean, it’s one of the most beautiful races anywhere. Or the Slacker Half, a downhill course with rolling hills and breathtaking mountain scenery.
The best half marathons combine challenge and reward—making the finish line feel like a true celebration.
Top Half Marathons in the US You Need to Know About
If you’re searching for the best half marathons in the US, you’ve come to the right place. These events are favorites among runners for their organization, vibe, and unforgettable routes.
- Philadelphia Half: Run past the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch. It’s one of the largest half-marathons in the country and filled with crowd support.
Austin Half Marathon: A city half with live music, great food, and Texas pride. A race for runners of all levels.
- Parks Half in Maryland: Offers scenic views of Rock Creek and the D.C. suburbs. This beautiful half is a hidden gem.
Each half marathon takes runners through iconic landscapes or downtown city streets, giving you the best of both worlds.
The Best Marathons in the USA for Every Runner
When it comes to marathons in the USA, there’s something for every runner — whether you’re looking for a fast half marathon or a challenging full marathon course.
Top picks include:
- Boston Marathon: Part of the World Marathon Majors and known for its prestigious entry and hilly course.
- Chicago Marathon: A flat and fast course, ideal for chasing a personal best.
- Big Sur International Marathon: Hugging the California coastline, this international marathon is famed for its scenic and hilly path.
Each marathon is one to remember, especially when the course takes runners past famous landmarks and through enthusiastic neighborhoods full of cheer.
Is the NYC Half the Most Iconic City Half Marathon?
The NYC Half is more than just a race—it’s a tour of the Big Apple. This city half marathon takes runners from the Manhattan Bridge, through Times Square, and ends with a finish in Central Park.
Whether you’re a first-time participant or a seasoned runner, the NYC Half delivers on atmosphere, energy, and iconic views.
Why runners love it:
- Course winds through landmarks of New York.
- High-energy crowd support.
- It ends in one of the most famous parks in the world.
Beautiful Half Marathons That Feel Like a Vacation
Some half marathons across the U.S. double as vacation races, offering more than just a medal—they offer an experience. These are perfect if you want a race-cation!
- Monterey Bay Half Marathon: Run along the Pacific Ocean.
- Walt Disney World Half: Experience the magic of Disney while logging miles.
- National Park Half Marathons: These include runs through Zion, Yellowstone, and Grand Canyon.
Running through a national park, along vibrant fall landscapes, or by the ocean makes these some of the prettiest half marathons out there.
Flat and Fast Courses for a New PR
Looking for a fast half marathon or marathon to break your PR? Consider these flat and fast courses, which are ideal for chasing a personal best:
- Chicago Marathon: Widely regarded as the best flat course in the U.S.
- Philadelphia Half: Mostly flat and super friendly for beginners.
- Slacker Half: A downhill course with a unique twist — the race starts close to the start line of the Loveland Pass in Colorado and drops significantly in elevation.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or trying a half marathon for the first time, these events offer optimal conditions.
Capital City Races Worth Traveling For
Want a race with political power and pavement? Try a capital city event! Running in the seat of state or national power can be surprisingly scenic.
- Washington, D.C. Half Marathons: Run along the monuments and state capitol building.
- Sacramento’s California International Marathon: Ends at the steps of the state capitol.
- Austin Half Marathon: Blends the best of Texas culture and capital city views.
These capital city races offer landmark views, strong logistics, and excellent race weekend support.
The Ultimate Bucket List: Half Marathons in Every US State
Imagine running a half marathon in every US state — the ultimate bucket list goal for any dedicated runner. From Alaska’s icy winds to Florida’s coastal sunshine, each state offers its own flavor of endurance.
Highlights include:
Each half course is unique, often reflecting the local culture and scenic surroundings that make it worth the trip.
Why the Lisbon Marathon Belongs on Every Runner’s List
The Lisbon Marathon is one of Europe’s most breathtaking marathons. Combining rich history, scenic views along the ocean, and fantastic organization, it’s an international marathon that should be on every runner’s radar.
Race details:
- Starts in Cascais, runs along the Atlantic coast.
- Passes key Portuguese landmarks.
- Ends in Lisbon, one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.
The Maratona Clube de Portugal offers this and other running events, making Lisbon a central hub for international marathon weekend experiences.
Check out the Lisbon Marathon here.
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