Run through the City of Independence and experience history. Philadelphia, the heartbeat of 42.195km
The Philadelphia Marathon is a captivating urban marathon held in Philadelphia, a historic city that symbolizes the founding of the United States. Held annually in late November, the 42.195km course takes runners on an inspiring and exciting journey past historic landmarks such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, while enjoying the beautiful scenery along the Schuylkill River.
The view from the “Rocky Steps” in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art is breathtaking, and the flat, fast course layout is ideal for setting a personal best. The warm cheers of the spectators lining the course give runners a powerful boost.
An unforgettable sense of emotion and accomplishment awaits in this city where history and modernity converge.
Philadelphia Marathon: A 42.195km journey woven with history and nature
The Philadelphia Marathon is not just a race. It is an unforgettable adventure through Philadelphia’s rich history and beautiful natural scenery. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world in this city where the spirit of independence lives.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The inspiring journey begins on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, right next to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Early in the morning, runners lining up at the starting line are greeted by the magnificent skyline of downtown Philadelphia, leading them into the historic cityscape.
Sights along the way
The Philadelphia Marathon course captivating runners with its historic landmarks and beautiful natural scenery.
・1-7 miles：Immediately after the start, runners pass by landmarks symbolizing American independence, such as City Hall, Independence Hall, and the Liberty Bell. This flat section allows runners to focus on the race at a steady pace while being surrounded by the historic atmosphere.
・8-12 miles：As the race approaches the middle, runners enter the beautiful scenery along the Schuylkill River. The spacious tree-lined paths and tranquil river views offer a sense of nature even in the heart of the city. This section is relatively flat and easy to maintain pace.
・13-20 miles：Returning to Benjamin Franklin Parkway, runners pass the Philadelphia Museum of Art. They then proceed through beautiful residential areas towards the Manayunk district. Manayunk features a short but tough uphill climb, but the enthusiastic cheers of the spectators along the road give runners a boost.
・21 miles to the finish：After conquering the Manayunk hill, runners return to the Schuylkill River and head towards the finish. This section is relatively flat and ideal for a final burst of energy. The continuous cheering of the spectators along the course will powerfully push runners forward, guiding them to the finish line.
Finish point
Finish in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, right next to the Rocky statue! The sense of accomplishment of running through the historic cityscape and the warm 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 relatively small, with an elevation gain of approximately 120m and a cumulative elevation descent of approximately 120m. The highest point is 45m and the lowest point is 2m. Most of the course along the Schuylkill River is flat, with only a short uphill section in the middle of the Manayunk district. It is known as a fast course ideal for aiming for a personal best.
・Weather：Philadelphia, where the race is held in late November, often has ideal weather for running. The average temperature is 5-12°C, and it is usually dry with gentle winds.
Participants’ comments
・ “Running through the historic cityscape was truly a special experience!”
・ “The course was flat and easy to run. I set a new personal best!”
・ “The support in Manayunk was enthusiastic and gave me the strength to get through the hill.”
・ “Finishing at the Rocky Steps was moving!”
・ “It was a beautiful course that blended history and nature.”
・ “The volunteers were very kind, and it was a wonderful race.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Philadelphia Marathon is to maintain a steady pace while enjoying the historic cityscape in the early stages, and then find your rhythm on the flat section along the Schuylkill River in the middle of the race. Use the cheers of the crowd to power through Manayunk, the only significant uphill section, and then unleash your final sprint on the flat section towards the end. Since the overall elevation difference is small, you can aim for a personal best if you pace yourself well. The weather is often suitable for running, so you should be able to perform to the best of your ability.
The Philadelphia Marathon is a 42.195km journey woven with history, nature, and the warm support of its people. Run through this city where the spirit of American independence lives, and experience the greatest thrill and sense of accomplishment of your life!
2024 Philadelphia Marathon Summary
・Date and time: November 24, 2024
・Number of finishers: Approx. 12,381
・Average time: –
MEN
1: William Loevner: 2:16:12.0
2: Mulgeta Birhanu Feyissa: 2:16:38.7
3: Rahal Bouchfar: 2:16:55.3
4: Ben Fleischer: 2:20:55.8
5: Jordan Daniel: 2:21:26.8
6: Milan Duka: 2:21:30.7
7: David Troy: 2:22:57.3
8: Abiyot Guta Duguma: 2:23:26.3
9: Stephen Paddock: 2:23:35.0
10: Steve Jordan: 2:23:58.1
WOMEN
1: Katie Florio: 2:32:42.1
2: Aberu Mekuria Zennebe: 2:33:26
3: Elizabeth Chikotas: 2:35:28
4: Regan Rome: 2:42:04.6
5: Lindsay Oremus: 2:45:03.8
6: Lindsey Oremus: 2:45:43.0
7: Amber Zimmerman: 2:45:44.3
8: Lauren Kelly: 2:47:12.1
9: Meghan Bir: 2:47:49.0
10: Lindsey Oremus: 2:48:07.4
2025 Philadelphia Marathon
Run through Philadelphia and surpass yourself. 42.195km will unleash a new you
・Location: Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
・Date and time: November 23, 2025
・Start time: 7:00 AM
Philadelphia: A City Where the Spirit of Freedom Thrives, Blending History and Culture
Philadelphia is a city where the story of the founding of the United States comes alive, a rich blend of history and culture. Iconic landmarks such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell continue to tell the tale of its role as the cradle of American freedom and democracy.
The beautiful brick-lined streets retain the charm of old America, while vibrant street art, modern cafes, and sophisticated restaurants co-exist, exuding diverse appeal.
Lush parks like Rittenhouse Square and Washington Square offer an oasis from the urban hustle, and the “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art are an iconic spot reminiscent of a movie scene. The city’s museums boast world-class collections, and at the Penn Museum in particular, you can encounter precious artifacts from ancient civilizations.
Local specialties like cheesesteaks and pretzels are representative of Philadelphia’s food culture, and at Reading Terminal Market, you can enjoy fresh ingredients and local delicacies in a lively atmosphere.
Known for its friendly people and warm community, this city warmly welcomes visitors and is filled with a special charm that makes you want to return again and again.
