Running down Fifth Avenue and shaking all five senses: 42.195km of New York Dreams
The New York City Marathon is the pinnacle of urban marathons, attracting runners from all over the world. Held every year in early November, it is a spectacular 42.195km journey across five boroughs, from Staten Island to Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.
The start from the Verlazano-Narrows Bridge is spectacular, and the ups and downs of the Queensboro Bridge and Central Park are challenging, but the constant cheers of the spectators filling the roadside give the runners a powerful boost.
An unforgettable feeling and sense of accomplishment awaits, as if the whole city is united in supporting you.
New York City Marathon: A 26.5-mile journey for the senses
The New York City Marathon is more than just a race. It’s an unforgettable adventure through New York’s five vibrant boroughs. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world, under the watchful eye of the Statue of Liberty.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The inspiring journey begins at the Verlazano-Narrows Bridge on the Staten Island side. Runners line up at the starting line on the bridge early in the morning, and are treated to breathtaking views of New York Harbor, the magnificent skyline of Manhattan, and the Statue of Liberty. The first mile is a gentle uphill climb (about 150 feet), but the excitement of running up this iconic bridge will lift your spirits.
Sights along the way
The New York City Marathon course will captivate runners with its diverse scenery and enthusiastic cheering.
・Mile 3-13：After descending the Verlazano-Narrows Bridge, you will enter the vibrant streets of Brooklyn. This relatively flat section is famous for the “non-stop street party” that the spectators along the road throw. Their enthusiastic cheers will help you keep up your pace.
・14 Mile： Just halfway through the race, the Queensboro Bridge awaits the runners. This bridge, which rises more than 100 feet in about 0.75 miles, is a big challenge in the middle of the course. However, the amazing view of Manhattan from the bridge will make you forget your fatigue.
・17 Mile：As you cross the Queensboro Bridge and enter Manhattan’s First Avenue, you will be surrounded by the cheers of the spectators filling the road. The feeling of being a rock star is unparalleled in any marathon in the world. The spectators along the road will call out your name and cheer you on with all their hearts.
The runner will briefly leave Manhattan and enter the Bronx, then return to Manhattan. This section is also filled with the support of local residents who welcome the runners warmly.
・23 Mile to Finish：At the end of the race, the uphill section on Fifth Avenue tests the runners again. Then, finally, you enter Central Park. There are several hills in the park that are full of ups and downs, and this is the section where you will have to exert your strength for the last time. However, once you leave the park near Columbus Circle and turn the final curve, the finish line is right in front of you.
Finish point
Finish in the magnificent Central Park! The sense of accomplishment of completing the world’s largest urban marathon and the countless cheers that await you at the finish line will be your best memories.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference：The elevation difference of the entire course is about 247m in elevation gain and about 251m in cumulative elevation descent. The highest point is 79m and the lowest point is 2m. In particular, five large bridges (such as the Verlazano-Narrows Bridge and the Queensboro Bridge) are the main ups and downs of the course, and there are also challenging uphill sections scattered throughout Central Park at the end.
・Weather：The weather in New York in early November, when the event is held, is often perfect for running. The average temperature is 11-18°C, and it is usually dry with gentle winds.
Participant comments
・”The experience far exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t stop smiling throughout the race!”
・”The support from the sidelines was amazing. It was the best time!”
・”I’ll never forget the view from the Verlazano-Narrows Bridge.”
・”Brooklyn was like a never-ending street party.”
・”It felt like the whole of New York was embracing the runners.”
・”I felt like a rock star for the entire 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 New York City Marathon is to get into rhythm with the lively support in Brooklyn at the beginning, and then get through the tough climb of the Queensboro Bridge with the amazing view of Manhattan. Use the cheers of the crowds on First Avenue in the middle of the race to get energy, and prepare for the hills of Fifth Avenue and the ups and downs of Central Park at the end. It’s especially important to pace yourself carefully, taking into account the five bridges and the ups and downs of Central Park at the end. The weather is often suitable for running, so you’ll be able to perform to the best of your ability.
The New York City 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 New York City Marathon Summary
・Date and time: November 2, 2025
・Number of finishers: 59,226
・Average time: 4:32:25
MEN
1: Benson Kipruto: 2:08:09
2: Alexander Mutiso: 2:08:09
3: Albert Korir: 2:08:57
4: Patrick Dever: 2:08:58
5: Matthias Kyburz: 2:09:55
6: Joel Reichow: 2:09:56
7: Charles Hicks: 2:09:59
8: Sondre Nordstad Moen: 2:10:15
9: Tsegay Weldlibanos: 2:10:36
10: Joe Klecker: 2:10:37
WOMEN
1: Hellen Obiri: 2:19:51
2: Sharon Lokedi: 2:20:07
3: Sheila Chepkirui: 2:20:24
4: Fiona O’Keeffe: 2:22:49
5: Annie Frisbie: 2:24:12
6: Sifan Hassan: 2:24:43
7: Jessica Warner-Judd: 2:24:45
8: Emily Sisson: 2:25:05
9: Amanda Vestri: 2:25:40
10: Fionnuala McCormack: 2:27:00
2026 New York City 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 New York, breaking your personal best and experiencing something unforgettable.
・Location: Verlazano-Narrows Bridge in Staten Island
・Date and time: November 1, 2026
・Start time: 9:10am
New York: A city of pulses and excitement
New York is a city that never sleeps, where dreams and energy from all over the world intersect. The overwhelming skyline of skyscrapers instantly captures the hearts of visitors, and its diversity and energetic breath will never be forgotten once you step foot in the city. The dazzling neon lights of Times Square, the singing voices echoing from the Broadway theater district, and the vast green space of Central Park provide an urban oasis. Each tells its own story and captivates visitors.
From the sophisticated boutiques of Fifth Avenue to the free atmosphere of Greenwich Village, the rich culture of Harlem, and the vibrant Chinatown and fine cuisine of Little Italy, New York is a melting pot of diverse cultures. Cuisines from all over the world line the streets, and museums and galleries are always showcasing cutting-edge art. Whether you’re listening to live music at a jazz club or crossing the Brooklyn Bridge to watch a breathtaking sunset, there is endless discovery and excitement to be had.
Historical buildings and cutting-edge architecture coexist in this ever-changing city, which shows you a new side every time you visit. Filled with creative energy and infinite possibilities, New York is a place where anyone can find their own story. Once you visit, you’ll be captivated by its charm and want to return again and again. It’s such a special city.
