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More than 50,000 runners will take to the streets this weekend for the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. On Sunday, October 11, the World Marathon Majors course takes competitors through 29 neighborhoods for a 26.2-mile journey that starts and ends in Grant Park.
Whether you’re running or cheering from the sidelines, here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 Chicago Marathon this weekend, including route details, where to watch and how to track runners.
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When is the Chicago Marathon?
The 2026 Chicago Marathon is Sunday, October 11. The first groups start at 7:20am, followed by the waves that head out between 7:35am through 8:35am. The 27th-Mile Post-Race Party in Butler Field ends at 4pm.
What is the Chicago Marathon route?
The marathon starts and finishes in Grant Park, weaving through 29 neighborhoods across the city. Runners will head north through downtown along LaSalle Street toward Lakeview, before looping around to head south down Broadway, Clark Street and more. They will then head west across the Chicago River and into the Near West Side, before moving south through Pilsen, Chinatown and Bronzeville. The course finishes with a long stretch up Michigan Avenue back to Grant Park, with the finish line stationed on Columbus Drive.
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How can I track Chicago Marathon runners?
Spectators won’t be able to access the race start and finish areas in Grant Park, but they can track runners on the official Bank of America Chicago Marathon app, available for iPhones and Android phones.
Where are the best spots to watch the Chicago Marathon?
The race can be viewed for free from streets along the marathon route or from official cheer zones at miles 13, 15 and 26, plus numerous community cheer zones. There’s also a ticketed viewing area in Grant Park on the east side of Columbus Drive, but tickets have sold out.
What streets will be closed for the Chicago Marathon?
The area around Grant Park will be closed off for a majority of the day. For a full list of roads that will be shut down, click here.