For those in the Tri-State Area or Pennsylvania Area, the Philadelphia Marathon can be a great for you if its your first marathon or if the NYC Marathon lottery didn't work out for the 7th year in a row. This flat course sends you through your tour of the city first, which is scenically painted with the residents of those neighborhoods. The crowds may be sparse at times, but the scenery keeps your attention.

After a brief stint in the city, you make your way towards Drexel, and to one of few inclines on the course. This gradual ascent is over before you can blink and you can catch a steep descent of which you should take advantage. Now, the lonely miles begin. Very few spectators until you return to the city at the halfway mark.

The final stretch of out and back on the river has some incline but the view of the river is gorgeous and the turnaround point at mile 20 has an electrifying atmosphere. However, this was the windiest part of the run with gusts of 25+ mph. Although this was an unexpected weather condition, the season in Philly breeds some tough conditions. You may be in for some wind or rain or cold or something crazy this weekend.

Finish line food trucks are a welcomed sight when you finish, but the finisher's food is a bit sub par. The shirt was also a little lackluster, but the overall experience.

Pro Tip: If you can find a hotel or airbnb within a mile of the starting line, you can most likely jog to the starting line and cut down on the commuting stress.