Marathons in Illinois

Illinois has one marathon in our database in United States, centred on Chicago. The region hosts an Abbott World Marathon Major — Chicago Marathon — putting it among the most sought-after destinations on the global racing calendar. Chicago Marathon typically draws around 52,000 finishers. Browse the races below for course maps, elevation profiles, typical weather, and practical race-day detail to help you choose your next start line. Plan by month on our marathon calendar or filter by country and region.

Chicago, Illinois, United States🇺🇸World Marathon Major

Chicago Marathon

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.

Next race: Sunday, 11 October 2026

Nearby Marathons

Other races closest to Illinois.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States🇺🇸· 134 km away

Lakefront Milwaukee Marathon

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

Madison, Wisconsin, United States🇺🇸· 198 km away

Madison Marathon

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

Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States🇺🇸· 204 km away

Grand Rapids Marathon

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

Carmel, Indiana, United States🇺🇸· 245 km away

Carmel Marathon

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

Indianapolis, Indiana, United States🇺🇸· 263 km away

Indianapolis Marathon

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