I ran this race 2 weeks after running NYC marathon which gave me a lot of perspective to compare the two races. Philly was such a breeze as far as easy access to the expo and the race itself. Of course the expo wasn't anything close to the size of NYC but that kind of thing doesn't really matter to me not to mention it was so much easier to get in and out of there. Race day logistics are very simple even with the new heightened security. There was no long waits for anything. Everything is well organized, the volunteers are not only super friendly but are well informed. The first half of the course is awesome through old city and by the zoo. The second half isn't terrible but it is an out and back type which can be a bit annoying to some. But the second half does include a trip down main street manyunk which is always jumping and a chance to grab a beer on your way through. There are a good number of spectators throughout the course, maybe just a bit dull through a few of the middle miles but it picks back up again nicely. At the finish I had food and drinks in hand within 1 minute of finishing which is a huge plus in my book! I may be a bit biased as it is my city but considering this is a large city race with tons of runners it is extremely well organized, well run and they really keep things simple/easy for the runners.

See my full report here: http://runningmarathonmom.blogspot.com/2013/11/philly-marathon-two-marathons-two-weeks.html