Sports · Running & Athletics · 2 days ago
Guide outlines ways to watch runners at the Chicago Marathon
The guide explains how spectators can watch runners at several points during the Chicago Marathon.
It describes driving, taking the train, or using a bike or scooter to get around the course.
Chicago’s looped route, street grid and public transit make it possible to reach different viewing spots.
The marathon app lets spectators search for runners and follow their locations on race day.
The guide says to agree in advance on where to meet and which side of the street to look for spectators.
Train rides cost $2.50 each way, while a $5 day pass is also available.
The suggested viewing stops are planned to allow time to reach each spot, though faster runners may require spectators to skip a stop or move more quickly.
The article outlines ways to watch Chicago Marathon runners by train, car or bike.
It says the looped course, street grid and public transit can help spectators see runners more than once.
The Chicago Marathon app provides race-day tracking and a course map, and lets users search by runner name or bib number.
The train plan begins downtown and gives suggested viewing points between miles 1 and 9.
A train fare is $2.50 each way, while a $5 day pass is described as the best value.
- Who
- Chicago Marathon spectators and runners.
- What
- The article offers advice on tracking runners and watching the race from multiple points by train, car or bike.
- When
- The Chicago Marathon is referred to as taking place “this year”; the article was published on October 9, 2026.
- Where
- Chicago, including downtown and the Lakeview neighborhood.
- Why
- To help spectators plan where and how to see runners during the marathon.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Thanks to a looped course, an orderly street grid, and the city’s extensive public transit system, it’s possible to see runners multiple times whether driving, taking the train, or biking.
The train plan starts at Dearborn Street and Wacker Drive, where spectators can watch runners heading south.
The plan suggests walking west on Wacker Drive to see runners heading north on LaSalle Boulevard.
The plan directs spectators to the Clark and Lake station to board the Brown Line north toward Kimball.
- Train fare
- $2.50 each way
- Day pass
- $5
- First suggested viewing point
- Dearborn Street and Wacker Drive, between miles 1 and 2
- Second suggested viewing point
- LaSalle Boulevard, at mile 3
- Third suggested viewing point
- Clark and Lake station, at mile 9
Sources
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