The Chicago Marathon is one of the premier races in the United States. Runners head to Chicago from near and far to show off their skills and compete in this fierce marathon. For those who are spectators as opposed to participants, you’ll find plenty of ideal spots to sit and watch the marathon unfold.
Whether you want to be in the middle of all the action and excitement or prefer a spot quieter and more secluded, don’t worry — options for both exist. The following will highlight the best spots to catch the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in addition to some information about this annual event.
Chicago Marathon 2019
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon will take place on the morning of Sunday, October 13, 2019. The first Chicago Marathon was held back in 1977. In 2008, Bank of America took over the race and has since organized and owned the Chicago Marathon. Runners come from across the country and the globe to compete in this popular marathon with the start and finish line in picturesque Grant Park. Throughout the marathon participants will run through 29 Chicago neighborhoods filled with history and culture. These unique neighborhoods provide the ideal backdrop for spectators to gather and watch the runners pass.
The schedule for the 2019 Bank of America Chicago Marathon is comprehensive:
5:30 a.m. – Gear check open
5:30 a.m. – Start corrals open
7:20 a.m. – Wave 1 (Red) start corrals close
7:20 a.m. – Marathon Wheelchair Start (men)
7:21 a.m. – Marathon Wheelchair Start (women)
7:22 a.m. – Handcycle Start
7:23 a.m. – Athletes with Disabilities Start
7:30 a.m. – Wave 1 Start
7:45 a.m. – Wave 2 (Blue) start corrals close
8 a.m. – Wave 2 Start
8:10 a.m. – Wave 3 (Orange) start corrals close
8:35 a.m. – Wave 3 Start
9:30 a.m. – Grant Park opens to spectators
9:30 a.m. – Biofreeze 27th Mile Post-Race Party starts
4 p.m. – Gear check closes
4 p.m. – Biofreeze 27th Mile Post-Race Party ends
Registration for the Chicago Marathon is now closed, but you can still take part in the 2019 Bank of America Chicago Marathon as a spectator! Read on for the best spots to perch and cheer for this year’s runners in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
Chicago Marathon Route
When planning on where to set up your chairs for the Chicago Marathon on October 13 and root for your favorite running competitors, the following list of neighborhoods includes great spots to put the spotlight on:
The Chicago Marathon begins at Grant Park and then the route works its way through Chicago and the following neighborhoods in this order:
- New Eastside
- Streeterville
- Magnificent Mile
- The Loop
- Near North Side
- Lincoln Park
- Wrigleyville
- Lake View East
- Park West
- Old Town
- Old Town Triangle
- River North
- Near West Side
- West Loop
- West Loop Gate
- Greektown
- Little Italy
- University Village
- Illinois Medical District
- Pilsen
- Chinatown
- Bridgeport
- Park Boulevard
- Bronzeville
- The Gap
- South Commons
- Prairie District
- South Loop
- Central Station
After Central Station, the runners will end the race back at Grant Park. At that time, race times will be recorded and awards will be handed out to the top winners in various categories.
The Chicago Marathon Is One of Many Annual Events in Chicago
The Chicago Marathon is just one of the exciting events on a list of many located throughout the Windy City. From parades to film festivals, there is little you won’t find in Chicago. Add in sensational dining and shopping options and you have a city you won’t soon be leaving if you live there, and can’t wait to move in if you are in the process.
Whether moving to Lincoln Park or some other neighborhood on the Chicago Marathon route, Move Matcher can help you do it. Visit Move Matcher for helpful Chicago guides and moving tips to provide you with the confidence and know-how you need for your upcoming move.
