The expo was a fail. The information emailed didn't list an address only a link and the link was to a map that took you somewhere else. There were no signs and we walked right by where we were supposed to go - more than once. A wasted hour to pick up a Bib, shirt and glass. The shirt and glass were cool, though.
I got dropped off at the start so I can't comment on the parking except to say the official lot for parking was on the marathon course so busses (shuttles) were going back and forth ON the marathon course. I did NOT like this - at all. Not safe and school busses stink.
The course was very scenic and pretty. It was hillier than expected but it was my third marathon in nine days so my objectivity probably wasn't very objective! The first half and second half of the race are two totally different experiences. The first half you're surrounded by tons of runners and many spectators. Then you have to run RIGHT next to the Half finish line and make a U-turn around it to head out for the next half (I found this to be unnecessarily cruel!). This half is quiet, mostly void of spectators and far fewer runners. There were a few hills thrown in, too. The scenery was different from the first half but still very pretty. Starting and finishing at the beach was pretty neat.
There was NOTHING except bottled water at the finish. My friend was waiting for me there and had scouted out the area and was unable to find anything else - not even a banana. I'm sure there had to be refreshments but we didn't see any.
I needed ice from medical (for my calves) but there was no medical tent or cots like I'm used to seeing at marathons. My only option was to go to an ambulance and sit in the parking lot, which was very rough and painful to sit on.
For what you got, I found the race expensive but I still liked it and I really liked Newport and Middletown. It was a fun place to go for the weekend.