Chicago Marathon 

The Chicago Marathon was my 2nd marathon and 1st World Marathon Major! It was such a fun experience. If you're running this race, read my posts "Highlights of the Abbott World Marathon Majors: Berlin, Chicago and NYC Marathon" and “The Best of Chicago”. If you're interested in how you can run the Chicago Marathon, read my article "How to Get Into an Abbott World Marathon Majors". If you are running one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, read this article on how to "Make the Most of Your World Marathon Major". 

The 2019 Chicago Marathon will take place on Sunday, October 13th 2019

WHERE TO STAY: I stayed at the Club Quarters Hotel downtown. This was nicely located from the start and there was a Starbucks right on the street corner next to the hotel. They also have a restaurant, Elephant & Castle within the hotel. 

Below is the course map for the marathon. 

the chicago marathon 

Taken from the Abbott WMM page: Since its inaugural running in 1977, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon has developed a global reputation for its fast, record-setting course. Year after year the Bank of America Chicago Marathon hosts representatives from more than 100 countries and all 50 of the United States to compete on this world stage, while the flat city landscape and cool fall climate combine to provide the best backdrop for posting records – personal, national and world. Visit chicagomarathon.com for more information.

Capacity    Largest Field    Estimated Spectators    Prize Purse    Affiliated Charity Organizations
45,000       40,659 (2014)     1.7 million                      $550,000 *      195

The windy city

I convinced my best friend to sign up and run with me! I hope she still doesn't hate me after this experience! The race course is very runner friendly. There are NO hills. You will run through various neighborhoods. Each neighborhood is unique and draws a unique crowd! You will not be bored for sure!! Be sure to interact with the crowd. See below for pictures of the course!

After party

Be sure to stick around after the marathon for the post race party. There is entertainment, massages, free food and  beer. Plus the finish is located in a great spot. Take pictures in front of the fountains in the park and with the skyline in the background. If you have time after you shower, head over to the Navy Pier for a ride on the Ferris wheel.