TCM was my first marathon so I'm a little biased, but this is was one of the most beautiful courses in the country! It's definitely hilly--so make sure you get your hill workouts in! The crowd support is unbelievable--there is someone cheering you on at all times. It's so fun to start in Minneapolis and finish in St. Paul. If you don't get into Chicago, TCM is a great option!

Grandma's Marathon is a great race! After running the scenic (but hilly) Twin Cities Marathon, Grandma's was a flat and fast course for me. Here's the deal: if you get a nice tailwind (like I did), you're in good shape. Everyone talks about being able to see the lift bridge in the distance and how it is very deceiving because you are still so far away! I lucked out and the whole race was foggy, so I didn't have to see it and think about how much further I had! The course itself is very flat. The crowd support isn't very large until you get into town, but then after that it's very fun and helps you kick it in for the last part of the race. It's very well organized and I would definitely run it again.