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This is the second year in a row that the Bank of America Chicago Marathon has made the list of Top 5 Marathons in the US - and it’s easy to see why. Every aspect of the race is world-class, with about 40,000 people running through Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods and nailing PRs on Chicago’s pancake-flat streets.
Best for first-timers!
The race offers easy access to the start-line and finish and, as a looped course, race-day logistics are much easier than some other large events making it an ideal goal-race for first-timers. The medal and t-shirt are always top-notch, and the wide expo aisles make this one of the best ones to cruise.
Multiple nominations came in raving about the spectator and crowd support. And on-course there’s even more to keep you entertained - from drag queens in Boystown, a dragon dance in Chinatown, and more. The aid stations are long and well-organized, with color coordinated cups (always green Gatorade first and white/blue water second). And once you cross the finish line, it’s one of the fastest finish-to-beer-in-hand time differentials you’ll find! All of these perks make this race perfect for first-timers!