The Bank of America Chicago Marathon winds through 29 diverse neighbourhoods of the Windy City. Known for its flat, fast course and enthusiastic Midwest crowds, Chicago has hosted landmark performances including Kelvin Kiptum's previous men's world record (2:00:35, 2023) and Ruth Chepngetich's all-time women's record (2:09:56, 2024). It remains a favourite for runners chasing Boston qualifying times.
Chicago Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
The next Chicago Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 11 October 2026 with a 7:30 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 74 m of climbing on a very flat layout.
Part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Compare all eight majors, dates, and courses on our hub page.
The Chicago Marathon is a flat 26.2-mile loop starting and finishing in Grant Park, crossing the Chicago River repeatedly as it tours 29 neighbourhoods including the Loop, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Pilsen, and Chinatown. Aside from the early climb out of Grant Park and the Cermak Road bridge near mile 21, it is built for fast running, and huge crowds are loudest in Pilsen, Northalsted, the Loop, and the finish approach.
Official course map — view on race website
The Chicago Marathon course is very flat over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 74 metres of climbing and 73 metres of descent, with a net climb of 1 metres from start to finish.
Chicago uses a lottery system that opens in late October or November and closes a few weeks later, with results announced by January. The field is approximately 45,000–50,000 runners. Alternative routes include the Bank of America Charity Programme (minimum fundraising commitments vary, typically $1,750–$3,500 per charity), a time-qualifier entry for runners with sub-3:00 (men) or sub-3:30 (women) marathons, and a Generosity Entry for those rejected from the lottery for multiple consecutive years.
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
Other races closest to Chicago.
The Lakefront Milwaukee Marathon draws approximately 2,000 finishers each October along Lake Michigan's western shore. The course passes the Art Museum with its Burke Brise Soleil wings, Veterans Park, and the Oak Leaf Trail on flat lakeside terrain. October's crisp Great Lakes autumn and the iconic Calatrava museum backdrop make it Wisconsin's premier marathon.
Next race: Sunday, 25 October 2026
The Madison Marathon draws approximately 1,800 finishers each November on a capitol city road in Madison, United States. Running between two lakes gives the race a classic isthmus-city feel that is unique in the Midwest. The route passes the Capitol square, the University of Wisconsin campus, and lakefront stretches between Mendota and Monona. The Capitol square, the University of Wisconsin campus, and lakefront stretches between Mendota and Monona roll across the classic isthmus-city loop.
Next race: Sunday, 1 November 2026
The Grand Rapids Marathon draws approximately 1,300 finishers each October on an urban road in Grand Rapids, United States. It is known regionally as a dependable Midwest BQ course. The course passes the Grand River, city parks, and long straight sections through neighborhoods built for even splits. The course is very flat throughout.
Next race: Sunday, 4 October 2026
The Carmel Marathon draws approximately 1,200 finishers each April on a suburban road in Carmel, United States. It is notable for how smoothly the course runs through Carmel's distinctive roundabout network. The route passes Monon Trail-adjacent streets, roundabout-lined boulevards, and manicured suburban neighborhoods. The course is very flat throughout.
Next race: Sunday, 4 April 2027
The Indianapolis Marathon draws approximately 4,500 finishers on an urban road in Indianapolis, United States. The course starts and finishes at Monument Circle. The route passes the Indianapolis Motor Speedway area and the Canal Walk. Mostly flat with gentle undulations.
Next race: Sunday, 1 November 2026
The Abbott World Marathon Majors series, the Six Star Medal, qualifying paths, and how to approach racing the world's biggest city marathons.
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When a flat course helps your time, when hills are worth the view, and how to pick terrain that fits your training and goals.
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How major marathons allocate places — open entry, lotteries, charity bibs, tour operators, and what to check before you commit to a trip.
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