Best Places to Watch

Where does the NYC Marathon route start?

The route begins on Staten Island and exits Staten Island via the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. It takes runners through Brooklyn and then into Queens before entering Manhattan.

Where does the NYC Marathon route end?

After a trip up into the Bronx, runners head back down into Manhattan and enter Central Park, where they finish. You can see the full route map here.

What does the route look like?

Here’s a preview of the course, courtesy of New York Road Runners.

Where can I watch the race?

You can watch runners finish from the East Side Grandstand Seating (you’ll need a ticket) or you can see them go by from the sidewalks at the following points:

• Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn (Miles 2-4): Catch runners as they exit the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and move along Fourth Avenue. Subway: R

• Fourth Avenue and Flatbush Avenue (Mile 8): Subway: B, D, N, Q, R, 2, 3, 4, 5

• Williamsburg and Greenpoint, Brooklyn (Miles 10-13): Claim sidewalk space along streets lined with shops and restaurants and encourage runners as they head toward the Pulaski Bridge to cross into Queens. Subway: G, L, M, J

• Pulaski Bridge (Mile 13.1): The Pulaski Bridge, which connects Brooklyn to Queens, is closed to spectators; many fans cheer on the Queens side, just past the race’s halfway mark. Subway: 7, G, E

• First Avenue, Manhattan (Miles 16-18): Spectators line the sidewalks and shout encouragement at this exciting part of the course. The avenue’s many bars and restaurants contribute to the festive atmosphere. Subway: N, Q, R, 4, 5, 6, F

• East Harlem (Miles 18-20): Also known as Spanish Harlem, this neighborhood is home to a vibrant Latinx community. This is a perfect location to cheer and help keep the runners’ motivation high. Subway: 6

• Charity Cheer Zone, First Avenue and 120th Street (Miles 19-20): Help celebrate thousands of runners who have chosen to add meaning to their run by raising funds for one of NYRR’s 500+ official charity partners. Subway: 6

• Fifth Avenue, East 90th Street-East 105th Street (Miles 23-24): This stretch of Fifth Avenue is a cultural hub as well as a crucial spot to catch runners before they enter Central Park. Subway: Q, 4, 5, 6

• United Airlines Zone: Columbus Circle. Subway: A, C, D, 1

• The race finishes at 67th Street on West Drive. Spectators can access the final approach to the finish in two ways:

• Grandstand Seating: Tickets are required and are available at Eventbrite prior to race day. Enter at West 62nd Street and Broadway with your Grandstand tickets.

• Standing Spectator Area: Located inside Central Park from Columbus Circle to the south end of the grandstands, approximately 500 feet before the finish. NYPD, NYRR, and the NYC Parks Department may limit access at times, based on capacity. No chairs or seats are provided or allowed.

• Note: There is no spectator access north of the grandstands in Central Park. Spectators can enter at the following areas: Broadway at West 61st Street or West 62nd Street, or from the east side via the Central Park path by Heckscher Fields – Kickball Field #3. All entrances require screening.

Where can I catch the NYC Marathon on TV?

Watch the broadcast live on WABC-TV, Channel 7 from 8am-1pm EST. Pre-race coverage from Fort Wadsworth begins at 7am. Live streaming will be available on the ABC App and ABC7NY.com from 7am-1pm. Or you can tune into ESPN2 and ESPN.com from 8-11:30am.

Conclusion

The NYC Marathon is a unique and exciting event that brings the city together. With the route spanning 26.2 miles, there are plenty of opportunities to cheer on your loved one and be a part of the excitement. Whether you choose to watch from the sidelines or tune in on TV, the NYC Marathon is an experience you won’t want to miss.

FAQs

Q: Where can I get tickets to the East Side Grandstand Seating?

A: Tickets are available on Eventbrite prior to race day.

Q: How do I get to the race course?

A: You can take public transportation, including subways and buses, or drive and park in designated areas.

Q: What are the best places to watch the race?

A: Some popular spots include Fourth Avenue in Brooklyn, the Pulaski Bridge, and First Avenue in Manhattan.

Q: Can I bring a chair or seat to the race?

A: No, chairs or seats are not allowed in the Standing Spectator Area in Central Park.

Q: What if I miss the race or can’t attend in person?

A: You can watch the race on TV or online, or follow social media coverage and updates throughout the event.