Run through “Running City USA.” Atlanta, a 42.195km southern charm
The Atlanta Marathon is the pride of “Running City USA,” showcasing the heart and heritage of the South. Held annually in late February or early March, it is a magnificent 42.195km journey that weaves through Atlanta’s most iconic landmarks, historic neighborhoods, and tree-lined streets.
The start and finish at The Home Depot Backyard, right next to the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium, are spectacular. While the “rolling hills” of Atlanta provide a challenging test of endurance, the enthusiastic support from local communities and the city’s authentic southern hospitality give runners a powerful push.
An unforgettable sense of accomplishment awaits in a city that truly lives and breathes the spirit of running.
Atlanta Marathon: A 42.195km journey through the heart of the South
Atlanta Marathon is more than just a race. It is a vibrant adventure through the historic and modern districts of Georgia’s capital. Push your limits and write your story in “Running City USA,” where the legacy of the Olympics and the spirit of the Civil Rights movement meet.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The journey begins at The Home Depot Backyard, located in the shadow of the magnificent Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Runners lining up in the crisp morning air are surrounded by the energy of downtown Atlanta. The excitement of starting in the heart of the city, where major sporting history is made, will lift your spirits for the miles ahead.
Sights along the way
The Publix Atlanta Marathon course captivates runners with its blend of history, nature, and urban energy.
・Start to 10 miles: After leaving downtown, you will run through historic neighborhoods. Highlights include passing the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, where the legacy of the Civil Rights movement resonates. The cheers from local residents in these historic areas provide an early boost.
・11 to 20 miles: The course takes you toward the pleasant area of Decatur and through scenic parks like Piedmont Park. This section showcases Atlanta’s reputation as a “City in a Forest” with its beautiful tree-lined streets. While the terrain is characterized by “rolling hills,” the lush scenery helps you stay focused.
・21 miles to the finish: The final stretch brings you back toward the city center, passing through the Atlanta University Center—home to prestigious historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The energy here is electric. As you approach the finish line near the Georgia World Congress Center and Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the cheers of the crowd will carry you home.
Finish point
Finish at the spectacular Home Depot Backyard! The sense of accomplishment of conquering Atlanta’s hills and the warm southern welcome at the finish line will be memories you cherish forever.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference: Atlanta is famous for its “rolling hills.” The course features frequent elevation changes, making it a challenging and rewarding route. It is not a flat course, so training for inclines is essential to conquering the city’s terrain.
・Weather: Held in late winter/early spring, Atlanta typically offers cool and comfortable conditions for distance running. Average temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, though mornings can be chilly.
Participants’ comments
・ “The hills were tough, but the scenery through the historic neighborhoods was worth every bit of effort!”
・ “Running through Piedmont Park was beautiful. Atlanta really is a city in a forest.”
・ “The energy at the Atlanta University Center was incredible—it gave me the boost I needed for the final miles.”
・ “I loved finishing right next to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. What a spectacular venue!”
・ “The southern hospitality is real. The volunteers and spectators were so encouraging.”
・ “It’s a challenging course, but that makes the finish even more rewarding. I truly felt the spirit of Running City USA.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Atlanta Marathon is to respect the hills. Start conservatively through the historic districts to save energy for the “rolling” terrain in the middle sections. Use the beauty of Piedmont Park to maintain your mental focus, and draw energy from the vibrant crowds at the Atlanta University Center during the final miles. Consistent pacing and hill training are your best friends on this course. The cool Georgia morning air is perfect for a strong performance.
The Atlanta Marathon is a 42.195km journey that celebrates the soul of the South. Join runners from across the nation in the city that loves to run, and experience the ultimate southern hospitality and triumph.
2025 Atlanta Marathon Summary
・Date and time: March 2, 2025
・Number of finishers:-
・Average time: –
MEN
1: Joseph Darda: 2:29:05
2: Nathan Dummitt: 2:30:23
3: Jacob Alexander: 2:31:20
4: Everett Smulders: 2:33:18
5: Perry Griffith: 2:34:24
6: Josh Tysor: 2:35:20
7: Hisato Suetsugu: 2:35:33
8: Ezra Shilling Rabin: 2:37:37
9: Edgar Gebhardt: 2:37:43
10: Joe Verellen: 2:41:17
WOMEN
1: Gracie Griffith: 2:57:07
2: Christina Addison: 3:04:29
3: Hallie Baffic: 3:07:03
4: Tyra Holloway: 3:09:26
5: Joyce Zhang: 3:09:58
6: Sophia Wolmer: 3:15:18
7: Melanie Spaulding: 3:19:03
8: Nicole Gasaway: 3:19:08
9: Elizabeth Magato: 3:20:41
10: Lindsay Cordes: 3:20:43
2026 Atlanta Marathon
To all runners chasing their dreams, the 42.195km of “Running City USA” awaits you. Join thousands of participants to run through the heart of Atlanta, experience southern charm, and achieve your personal best.
・Location: The Home Depot Backyard (1 Backyard Way, Atlanta, GA)
・Date and time: March 1, 2026
・Start time: 7:15am
Atlanta: A City of Progress and Southern Charm
Atlanta is a dynamic metropolis where southern tradition meets global innovation. Known as the “Cradle of the Civil Rights Movement” and the host of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games, the city’s spirit of progress is palpable in every corner. The stunning skyline, featuring the iconic Westin Peachtree Plaza and the modern Mercedes-Benz Stadium, reflects a city that is always moving forward.
From the lush canopy of the “City in a Forest” to the historic streets of Sweet Auburn, Atlanta offers a diverse cultural landscape. Visitors are captivated by the World of Coca-Cola, the Aquarium, and the moving exhibits at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The city’s culinary scene is a melting pot of traditional southern comfort food and cutting-edge international cuisine.
Whether you are exploring the scenic Atlanta BeltLine, enjoying live music in Little Five Points, or reflecting at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, Atlanta offers endless opportunities for discovery. It is a city of resilience, hospitality, and vibrant energy—a place where every visitor can find a connection and a story.
