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Chicago Marathon

Marathon
  • Departure 7h30
  • Distance 42,195 km
  • Distance 42,195 km
  • Time limit 6h30
5K
  • Departure 7h30
  • Distance 5 km
  • Distance 5 km
  • Time limit 1h00

Pre-registration open for the Chicago Marathon 2026!

Come and run the Chicago Marathon 2026 and join more than 52,000 participants at the starting line to cover the 42.195 km of one of the world’s greatest marathons. Cross Chicago’s iconic streets in this legendary race through the heart of the city.
Register now for an unforgettable experience 😉

As our program for the Berlin Marathon 2026 is not yet available, you can protect your place (and race number) by pre-registering. The 2025 prices are still listed below, to give you an idea of the budget you can expect.

Marathon Overview

Take up the challenge of the 2026 Chicago Marathon – Bank of America Chicago Marathon

The Chicago Marathon 2026 represents thepinnacle of running, attracting athletes of all levels, from the elite to passionate amateurs. This iconic marathon, part of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors circuit, features a fast, flat course conducive to exceptional performance.

Every year, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon brings together runners from over 100 nations, making it one of the most international and inclusive events in the world. The 42.195 km course winds its way through Chicago’s iconic neighborhoods, offering participants a unique immersion in the city’s cultural diversity.

A mytic course awaits you. Start and finish in Grant Park, the vibrant heart of the city. Runners pass through neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Little Italy and Pilsen, discovering the cultural richness of Chicago. The course is renowned for its flatness, offering participants an ideal opportunity to beat their personal best.

With over 1.7 million spectators lining the route, the atmosphere is electrifying. Live bands, cheerleaders and entertainment punctuate the 42.195 km, creating a festive and motivating atmosphere for all participants.

The Chicago Marathon is also famous for several historic performances, including the men’s world record set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023 with an exceptional time of 2h 00min 35s. This record testifies to the speed and potential of the course, recognized as one of the fastest in the world and ideal for breaking your own personal records.

Each runner crossing the finish line receives the official Chicago Marathon medal, a symbol of perseverance and achievement. What’s more, a finisher’s T-shirt is given to each runner as a tangible souvenir of their achievement.

Prior to the race, participants must visit the official expo to collect their race number, which is essential for access to the starting gates. The expo also features a host of stands showcasing the latest innovations in running gear, nutrition and accessories.

For the best possible experience, our team of running enthusiasts offers a complete program including registration, race number collection, accommodation and personalized advice to help you tackle this adventure with peace of mind.

Course

Chicago Marathon race plan

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2025 Prices

Our hotels in 2025

Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown/Loop

Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown/Loop

The perfect balance between hotel and apartment, the Residence Inn Downtown Loop offers all the comforts you need for your stay. With rooms measuring 31m2, you’ll enjoy a Queen or King Size bed (in all rooms).

For meals, the hotel offers a buffet breakfast every morning.

What’s more, each room has its own kitchenette with microwave, electric hob and coffee machine. Enough to prepare your own meals if you wish. Maybe some pasta the night before a marathon ;). There’s also a fitness room.

With this listed building in Chicago’s Loop, you’re right in the heart of the city. The famous State Street is just 5 minutes from the hotel, enough to satisfy all your shopping desires. A 7-minute walk will take you to the start and finish of the marathon, so you can get organized as you please.

Warwick Allerton Chicago

Warwick Allerton Chicago

This hotel is ideally located for your stay in Chicago. It’s right on Michigan Avenue. One of the city’s most vibrant thoroughfares. Here you’ll find the world’s largest Starbucks. Looking for official marathon merchandise? No problem, the Nike store is just 100m from the hotel.

Similarly, the John Hancock Center, probably Chicago’s most iconic building, can be reached in a 7-minute walk.

In addition to the comfort of our rooms, you can also make use of our 24-hour fitness center.
On the day of the marathon, the hotel offers you a light breakfast to prepare you in the best possible conditions, before a 20-minute walk to the start line.

Did you know?

Best times

Men - NC
Female - NC
Book Now

Pre-registrations guarantee your spot (and your bib for runners) while waiting for our program to become available. The deposit paid is non-refundable in case of cancellation on your part.

You can find the terms and conditions of this trip here