Run down Tryon Street and shake your senses. Charlotte, a 42.195km dream
The Charlotte Marathon is a premier urban marathon in the American Southeast, attracting runners from all over the world. Held every year in mid-November, it is a spectacular 42.195km journey across iconic neighborhoods, from Uptown Charlotte to South End, Dilworth, Plaza Midwood, and NoDa.
The start from South Graham Street near Knights Stadium is spectacular, and the rolling hills through historic residential streets are challenging, but the endless cheers of the spectators filling the roadside give the runners a powerful push.
An unforgettable feeling and sense of accomplishment awaits, as if the entire Queen City is united in cheering you on.
Charlotte Marathon: A 42.195km journey that stirs the senses
The Charlotte Marathon is not just a race. It is an unforgettable adventure through the vibrant and diverse neighborhoods of Charlotte. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world in this city watched over by the Queen City skyline.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The emotional journey begins on South Graham Street in heart of Uptown Charlotte. Runners lining up at the starting line early in the morning are treated to breathtaking views of Truist Field, Bank of America Stadium, and the magnificent skyline of Charlotte. The opening stretch winds through the city center, but the excitement of running through the modern high-rises will lift your spirits.
Sights along the way
The Charlotte Marathon course attracts runners with its diverse scenery and enthusiastic cheering.
・3-13 miles: After leaving Uptown, you will enter the lively streets of South End and historic Dilworth. This tree-lined section is famous for its charming historic homes and enthusiastic neighborhood cheer stations. Their energetic cheers will help you keep up your pace.
・14 miles: Just past halfway through the race, the course takes runners into the vibrant arts districts of Plaza Midwood and NoDa. Featuring scenic neighborhood streets and modest rolling hills, this section serves as a great mental checkpoint. However, the amazing street murals and community energy will make you forget your fatigue.
・17 miles: As you run through the Myers Park area, you will be surrounded by the cheers of the spectators along the tree-lined avenues. The feeling of being a rock star is unparalleled as local families line up on front lawns. The spectators along the road will call out your name and cheer you on with all their heart.
The runner will navigate through historic residential avenues before turning back toward the city center. This section is also filled with the support of local residents who warmly welcome the runners.
・23 miles to the finish: At the end of the race, the runners are tested again by rolling hills heading back into Uptown along Morehead Street. Then, finally, they turn onto McDowell Street and make the final turn onto 2nd Street. There are several subtle inclines near the finish, and this is the section where they will have to exert their strength for the last time. However, once they make the final curve, the finish line is right in front of them.
Finish point
Finish in the magnificent heart of Uptown Charlotte! The sense of accomplishment of completing North Carolina’s premier city marathon and the countless cheers waiting for you at the finish line will be the best memories.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference: The elevation difference of the entire course is about 318m in cumulative elevation gain and about 318m in cumulative elevation descent. The highest point is 235m and the lowest point is 188m. In particular, rolling hills through historic neighborhoods and the return climb into Uptown are the main ups and downs of the course, presenting challenging uphill sections towards the end.
・Weather: Charlotte, where the race is held in mid-November, often has the perfect weather for running. The average temperature is 5-16°C, and it is usually crisp and clear with gentle autumn breezes.
Participants’ comments
・ “The experience far exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t stop smiling throughout the race!”
・ “The support from the sidelines in Dilworth and NoDa was amazing. It was the best time!”
・ “I’ll never forget the view of the skyline from the starting line.”
・ “Plaza Midwood was like a continuous neighborhood celebration.”
・ “It felt like the whole of Charlotte was embracing the runners.”
・ “I felt like a rock star for 42km. I’ll never experience a race like this again.”
・ “The energy and excitement of running with thousands of runners, the inspiration from the runners overcoming difficulties, and the presence of the amazing spectators made this experience really special.”
・ “The support from the spectators shouting my name was really moving (I highly recommend running with your name on your shirt!).”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Charlotte Marathon is to get into rhythm with the lively support in South End and Dilworth at the beginning, and then get through the rolling hills of Plaza Midwood and NoDa with the vibrant neighborhood charm. Use the cheers of the crowds along Myers Park in the middle of the race to get energy, and prepare for the final rolling hills heading back into Uptown at the end. It’s especially important to pace yourself carefully, taking into account the constant rolling elevation throughout the course. The crisp autumn weather is often suitable for running, so you’ll be able to perform to the best of your ability.
The Charlotte Marathon is a 42.195km journey that will thrill all your senses. Run through a city filled with enthusiastic cheers with runners from all over the world, and experience the greatest thrill and sense of accomplishment of your life.
2025 Charlotte Marathon Summary
・Date and time: November 15, 2025
・Finisher data: 2,984 (Marathon distance total)
・Average time: 4:12:45
MEN
1:Carter Coughlin:2:31:44
2:Andrew Todd:2:34:00
3:Matthew Martin:2:35:35
4:Braden Lange:2:36:33
5:Zachary Stewart:2:38:48
6:Philipp Alexander Naegele:2:40:03
7:Cody Draa:2:40:46
8:Greg Grasso:2:42:49
9:Walt Guyer:2:45:54
10:Adam Butts:2:46:52
WOMEN
1:Jessica Sarnicola:3:01:48
2:Nicole Pizzo:3:03:10
3:Abigail Smith:3:04:24
4:Sydney Kelleher:3:05:40
5:Sophia Raspanti:3:11:27
6:Cam Saverino:3:13:27
7:Sara Whitley:3:13:58
8:Katherine Keating:3:15:37
9:Carly Arrington:3:15:50
10:Felicity Bost:3:16:05
2026 Charlotte Marathon
Calling all runners out there, this 42.195km race is a thrilling experience for you. Join fellow runners from around the world as you run through the streets of Charlotte, breaking your personal best and experiencing something unforgettable.
・Location: S Graham St, Uptown Charlotte, NC
・Date and time: November 14, 2026
・Start time: 7:20am
Charlotte: A beating city, an exciting everyday life
Charlotte is a vibrant metropolis known as the “Queen City,” where Southern hospitality and modern financial dynamism intersect. The impressive skyline of modern skyscrapers instantly captures the hearts of visitors, and the energy of a rapidly growing urban center will never be forgotten once you step foot in the city. The green leafy canopy of historic neighborhoods, the roaring excitement of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and the peaceful waters of Freedom Park provide a perfect blend of urban vitality and charm. Each one tells its own story and captivates visitors.
From the upscale boutiques of SouthPark to the artistic and historic atmosphere of Plaza Midwood and NoDa, to the culinary excellence of South End, Charlotte is a warm and inviting melting pot of cultures. Modern craft breweries line the streets, and local galleries showcase inspiring regional art. Whether you’re enjoying live music in Uptown, taking a stroll through historic tree-lined avenues, or enjoying a local barbecue, there is endless discovery and excitement to be had.
This city, where lush green canopy and cutting-edge architecture coexist and is constantly evolving, shows a new face every time you visit. Filled with creative energy and infinite possibilities, Charlotte is a place where anyone can find their own story. Once you visit, you will be captivated by its charm and will want to return again and again. It is such a special city.
