Philadelphia Marathon
The Lowdown
The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend traces its roots back to the late 1990s and has grown into a signature fall event that draws runners from across the United States and around the world. Held on the streets of historic Philadelphia, the race celebrates the city's rich history and vibrant neighborhoods while offering a fast, flat course that has become a popular goal race for both first-time marathoners and seasoned competitors. Over the years the event has become known for strong community support, charity partnerships, and a festival-like race weekend that includes a half marathon, 8K, family-friendly races, and expo events. The course showcases iconic Philadelphia landmarks and scenic urban stretches: runners pass the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its famous “Rocky” steps, glide along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, run through historic Old City and Society Hill, and cross the Schuylkill River with long riverfront stretches that offer skyline views. Aid stations, bands, and enthusiastic neighborhood spectators create an energetic, encouraging atmosphere; the race tends to feel both competitive and community-oriented, with pacers and corrals to support a range of pace goals and many runners aiming for personal bests. The Philadelphia Marathon course is USATF-certified and is recognized as a Boston Marathon qualifying course, making it a reliable choice for runners chasing qualification times. The event is also affiliated with international marathon organizations and follows standard certification practices used by AIMS events. Whether chasing a BQ, a PR, or simply soaking in the city’s fall colors and history, runners can expect a well-organized race weekend with strong logistical support and a celebratory finish-line experience.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Moderate rolling hills
Participants
Field Size
Major marathon
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Good crowd energy
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Runners pass the iconic steps made famous by the ‘Rocky’ films and enjoy views of the Art Museum façade
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
A broad, tree-lined boulevard with museums and civic buildings, used for portions of the course and spectator viewing
City Hall
The race route winds near the ornate late-19th-century City Hall with its William Penn statue crowning the tower
Schuylkill River Trail
Scenic riverside segment along the Schuylkill River offering flat, fast running and views of the water and boathouses
Boathouse Row
Historic, illuminated boathouses along the Schuylkill River that make a picturesque stretch of the route
South Philadelphia / Italian Market
A lively neighborhood section where runners experience local crowds, food vendors, and community support
Penn's Landing / Delaware River Waterfront
Sections near the waterfront provide views of the Delaware River and serve as a backdrop for spectator areas
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Philadelphia, PA, United States
US
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Official Hotel Partner PortalVerified
This race offers exclusive rates and guaranteed entry packages through their official travel partner. Booking through the portal is recommended.
Eligibility
- Must be at least 18 years old on race day (2026-11-22) to register for the full marathon
- Open to both U.S. and international participants
- Participants must complete online registration and sign the event waiver and release
- Medical clearance recommended for anyone with pre-existing conditions; participants are responsible for their own fitness to race
- Bib transfers are not permitted; only the registered athlete may use the assigned bib
- All entrants must follow race rules and any time cutoff/pace requirements communicated by race organizers
- Entrants in para-athlete/wheelchair divisions must meet the event's specific classification and equipment requirements (contact organizers for details)
Required Documents
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Signed Race Waiver / Liability Release
- Proof of Age (birth certificate or photo ID)
- Emergency Contact Information
Entry Methods
- Online Registration
- Charity Entry
- Tour Operator
- Guaranteed Entry via Time Qualifier
- Bib Transfer/Deferred Entry
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Full refund for cancellations made more than 60 days before race day
50% refund for cancellations made 30–60 days before race day
25% refund for cancellations made 14–29 days before race day
No refunds for cancellations within 14 days of race day
Deferrals to the 2027 race are allowed for a $25 administrative fee if requested more than 14 days before race day
Bib transfers to another registrant allowed until 30 days before race day for a $30 transfer fee
Medical deferrals or special considerations may be granted with documentation (no fee waived decisions made case-by-case)
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Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
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