The Chicago Marathon is known for breaking records, whether it’s setting world record times, producing personal bests, or attracting more participants every year. This race breaks boundaries.

This year, organizers are anticipating 50,000 participants, a number that will exceed last year’s record by about 3,000 runners. That of course includes a star-studded elite field and a packed calendar for runners and spectators, alike.

There will also be a heartfelt tribute to the late Kelvin Kiptum, the Kenyan athlete who broke the world record in last year’s Chicago Marathon. Kiptum, in only his third marathon, ran two hours and 35 seconds, brushing up against the marathon’s elusive two-hour barrier. But the emerging superstar tragically died in a car accident in Kenya just four months later on February 11. To honor his memory, the 2024 Chicago Marathon will feature a moment of silence at the start, an exhibit celebrating his life and incredible talent, and special tribute stickers for runners to wear during the race. Celebrating Kiptum’s life will be an important part of Chicago’s marathon weekend.

RELATED: Kelvin Kiptum’s Meteoric Career in Pictures

No matter if you’re racing, cheering from the sidelines, tracking a runner, or watching from home, here’s everything you need to know about the 2024 Chicago Marathon.

The Chicago Marathon: A Brief History

The first Chicago Marathon took place in 1905, just eight years after the Boston Marathon was created. A local runner, Rhud Metzner, took the inaugural win. Chicago hosted the event annually until the 1920s when it went on hiatus until September 25, 1977. That’s when the modern version of the race under a new organization was born. It was the heyday of the original running boom sweeping through the U.S., inspired, in part, by Frank Shorter’s 1972 Olympic marathon gold and the excitement around the 1976 Olympics (where Shorter earned silver).

The 1977 race, then known as the Mayor Daley Marathon, attracted 4,000 runners, which was considered a large turnout at the time. (The 1976 New York City Marathon—the first run that stretched through all five boroughs of the city—had just 2,090 runners.) Dan Cloeter of Nebraska (2:17:52) and Dorothy Doolittle of Texas (2:50:47) were the men’s and women’s winners. Cloeter became the first two-time winner in 1979 (2:23:20) when the race was renamed the Chicago Marathon.

From 4,000 runners to nearly 50,000, the Chicago Marathon has become a bucket list race for many marathoners. It’s one of the six World Marathon Majors alongside Boston, New York, London, Berlin, and Tokyo.

A Record-Breaking Course

Six world records have been broken on the speedy course, known for its elevation gain of only 243 feet. In 1984, Steve Jones of Great Britain set the first world record with a time of 2:08:05. (The previous record had been the 2:08:18 Australia’s Rob de Castella set at the Fukuoka Marathon in Japan in 1981.) The current men’s world record (2:00:35), set by the late Kiptum, was run on the Chicago course just last year.

The women pros also see great success in Chicago. Kenya’s Catherine Ndereba broke the world record in Chicago for the first time in 2001 in 2:18:47 followed by Paula Radcliffe of Great Britain in 2002 with a 2:17:18 finish. Radcliffe went on to break her own time for two consecutive years in London, and Chicago didn’t see another woman’s record until 2019, when Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei ran 2:14:04. That record stood until last September when Tigst Assefa ran a 2:11:53 in Berlin. Just two weeks after Assefa’s stunning record, Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands clocked a 2:13:44 in Chicago—the second-fastest marathon time in women’s history.

What Time Does the Chicago Marathon Start?

The first wave of runners (elites and corrals A-E) starts at 7:30 A.M. CST.

If you’re running the race, the start line at Columbus Drive and Monroe Street in Grant Park will be open to runners starting at 5:30 A.M. Gear check will begin at the same time.

If you’re in corrals A-E, the corral will close at 7:20 A.M. Here is the 2024 race day schedule of events. 

2024 Chicago Marathon Elite Runners

This year’s race is stacked with accomplished international runners as well as dozens of Americans trying to set new PRs and top-10 finishes.

Women’s Elite Field

Leading contender Ruth Chepngetich is the fourth fastest women’s marathoner in history based on the 2:14:18 winning effort she recorded in Chicago in 2022, but she’s coming off a lackluster ninth-place showing at the London Marathon in April (2:24:36). Chepngetich tried to threepeat in the Windy City last year, but wound up a distant second (2:15:37) behind Ethiopian-Dutch runner Sifan Hassan in her debut marathon. Ethiopia’s Sutume Kebede is coming off a PR win (2:15:55) at the Tokyo Marathon in March (the fastest time in the world this year), while Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei (2:16:24) took third in London (2:16:24) in April, while top Americans Keira D’Amato (2:19:12) and Betsy Saina (2:19:17) round out the nine sub-2:20 runners in the field.

Several other top U.S. runners are in search of a strong result, including Sara Hall, (2:20:32), Emma Bates (2:22:10), Sara Vaughn (2:23:24), Susanna Sullivan (2:24:27), Gabi Rooker (2:24:35), Lindsay Flanagan (2:24:43), and Nell Rojas (2:24:51). Bates began a strong string of results after finishing the 2021 Chicago Marathon in second, but her most recent marathon result is her 12th-place finish (2:27:14) in Boston in April after recovering from a partial plantar tear which she incurred during the Chicago Marathon last year. (She finished 13th in 2:25:04.)

Men’s Elite Field

The men’s elite field isn’t quite as deep as the women’s, but Amos Kipruto (Kenya), Vincent Ngetich (Kenya), and Dawit Wolde (Ethiopia) have all run sub-2:04 and, if conditions are right, could blaze through Chicago’s flat, fast course. Kipruto, the winner of the 2022 London Marathon, owns the fastest personal best in the men’s field, which came from his 2:03:13 effort at the 2022 Tokyo Marathon (where he finished 33 seconds behind Eliud Kipchoge). He most recently finished seventh (2:04:49) in the 2023 Berlin Marathon. Also of note, Kenya’s Daniel Ebenyo, the silver medalist in the 10,000 meters at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest, will be making his marathon debut after being left off the Kenyan Olympic team.

The top American in the field is Zach Panning, who finished sixth at the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in February and owns a personal best of 2:09:28. He’s joined by fellow sub-2:10 Americans Brian Shrader and C.J. Albertson, as well as Reed Fischer (2:10:34), Nathan Martin (2:10:45), and Colin Mickow (2:11:22).

Weather Forecast for the Chicago Marathon 2024

Chicago’s weather in October can be unpredictable, but 2024 is shaping up to be a bit steamy for runners. Forecasts predict temperatures ranging from 50 to 60 degrees in the morning with humidity at 74 percent. Despite the sweaty conditions, there should be partial cloud coverage.

Chicago Marathon Course Details

Super flat, lightning fast—the Chicago Marathon course has earned these superlatives thanks to its minimal elevation change. The gain is 243 feet with a loss of 242 feet.

Along the Course

There are plenty of iconic landmarks to distract from the long miles. Starting and finishing in Grant Park, the course winds through 29 of Chicago’s most beautiful neighborhoods over 26.2 miles.

You’ll start by heading up Michigan Avenue, passing through the Magnificent Mile. It’s lined with fancy hotels, skyscrapers, luxury stores, unique architecture, and other sights that might prevent you from going out too fast.

From miles 4 to 7, you’ll be cruising through Lincoln Park. You’ll run past the zoo, museums, and gorgeous views of Lake Michigan and some of the tall buildings that make up the city’s famous skyline. After that, it’s on to Wrigleyville, home of the Cubs and a youthful vibe of the surrounding neighborhoods and tons of energy to keep you moving north before circling back toward the Loop in the heart of the downtown business district.

Midway through the race, just after mile 13, you’ll pass by the circa-1925 Daniel Burnham-designed Union Station, one of the most famous train stations in the country that has roots back to 1881. It’s a cool spot to mark a major milestone. Then, it’s west toward Damen Avenue and eventually south, where you’ll hit the historic Pilsen neighborhood.

At mile 19, get ready for Chinatown. The crowd energy here is incredible, and running under the famous Chinatown Gate will give you the pick-me-up you need for those final miles.  You’ll briefly pass through Bridgeport and Guaranteed Rate Field (home of the Chicago White Sox) before crossing the Dan Ryan Expressway and the Illinois Institute of Technology before looping back and beginning a two-mile stretch along South Michigan Avenue.

Oh, and you know how everyone says there are nearly no hills? There’s a reason why the “nearly” in that sentence is important. At the very end of the marathon, as you make your way from Michigan Avenue to Roosevelt Road, you’ll be faced with a giant incline that will have you sputtering out swear words. Although it’s only a few hundred meters long, locals have called it “Mount Roosevelt.” Just remind yourself that climbing this mountain means you’re nearing the end. The anguish is brief and quickly turns to euphoria as you reach the summit and turn left and run downhill onto Columbus Drive to the finish line in Grant Park about 200 meters away.

Aid Station Amenities and Placements

There are 20 aid stations along the route spaced about 1 to 2 miles apart starting at mile 1.6. Every station features a medical tent, porta-potties, Gatorade (lemon-lime flavor), and water.

The stations at miles 13.6, 18.2, and 23 will feature Maurtan Gels. Miles 19.5 through 22.3 will offer bananas.

What’s New for 2024?

Expanded Pace Groups

Runners will have more pace groups to choose from this year. There will be nearly 100 pacers who will lead runners to time goals of 3:00, 3:05, 3:10, 3:15, 3:20, 3:25, 3:30, 3:45, 3:50, 3:55, 4:00, 4:10, 4:20, 4:30, 4:40, 4:50, 5:00, 5:30, and 5:45.

Environmentally Friendly

To be a more sustainable and environmentally-minded race, there will not be plastic water bottles at the finish line of the Chicago Marathon. Instead, thanks to a partnership with Culligan International, the race will pass out water in aluminum cans.

Celebrated History

The Chicago Marathon was awarded the World Athletics Heritage Plaque ahead of this year’s race. It’s an honor that recognizes a contribution to athletics history.

What to Expect at the Expo

The Abbott Health & Fitness Expo is located at McCormick Place’s Lakeside Center (Hall D). You’ll need to swing by the expo before you race to pick up your race packet. Depending on where you’re staying, you should consider taking a cab, bus, or a ride-share car because it’s located about 3 miles from many downtown hotels.

Expo Hours of Operation

Thursday, October 10: 11 A.M. to 6 P.M. CST

Friday, October 11: 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. CST

Saturday, October 12: 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. CST

Packet Pick-Up

Before you do any shakeout runs, exploring, eating, or shopping, pick up your race packet at the expo. Be sure to bring a photo ID and the Packet Pick-up Ticket that will be emailed to you. Your packet contains your bib (with timing device), your race shirt, and a participant bag.

What’s at the Expo?

If you’ve never been to a big race, the expo experience will blow your mind. It’s like a mall just for runners with shoes, attire, recovery tools, and the latest in tech and fuel.

The Chicago Marathon participant guide says there will be 160 exhibitors. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the expo experience. We’ve all been there—like a kid in a candy shop drooling over the newest flavor of caffeinated gels.

Our advice? Remember to avoid trying anything new on race day. That means, for example, don’t buy and wear a new pair of socks for your big race. For fuel, this rule extends to the days leading up to Sunday morning as well. If you see something interesting, get it but put it in your suitcase for use after the race.

RELATED: What to Pack for a Destination Race 

Another piece of wisdom? Don’t dawdle around the expo. Before you know it, you’ll have a bunch of unnecessary time on your feet that you don’t want there before you race 26.2 miles. Get in, get your packet, get out.

How to Get To The Expo

If you’re driving, set your GPS to 2301 S. Martin Luther King Dr. and follow signs to Parking Lot C.

Taking a rideshare? Enter McCormick Place—East Building for an easy drop-off location.

The CTA is also a great option if you’re coming from other parts of the city.

Make sure to leave the large bags at home—security screenings will be in place.

Transportation Tips for Runners

If you’re flying in, skip the cab from the airport and take the CTA’s Blue Line from O’Hare or the Orange Line from Midway—both are affordable and convenient to get into the city.

On race day, the CTA is your best friend. Take the Red Line or Green Line to get to Grant Park. If you’re driving, parking near Grant Park is limited and fills up fast. Consider parking garages in the Loop or near Millennium Park.

Where to Eat in Chicago

We know food is important to runners. Fueling before, celebrating after, and snacking throughout the weekend is a must—especially in a foodie mecca like Chicago. We asked our staff and a hospitality professional for their best recommendations.

Brunch

David Gleisner, RUN’s Illinois-born social media strategist, recommends Lula Cafe in Logan Square, especially for brunch.

Another Chicagoan, Jake Goldstein, who’s been in the hospitality business for more than a decade suggests The Dawson, a Michelin Recommended upscale eatery with innovative dishes like Chicken Fried Lobster along with brunch classics like crab cake benedict. Oh, and of course, bottomless mimosas.

Coffee

Sure you could visit Starbucks, but Goldstein suggests Big Shoulders Coffee and Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea. 

And if you’re looking for a sweet treat with your morning brew, he says Mindy’s Bakery is the best in the city. 

Dinner

Gleisner says Alpana is centrally located and “lovely for carb loading.”

Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza. If you’re looking for a quintessential deep dish experience, RUN’s editor-in-chief Brian Metzler says Giordano’s Pizza should be at the top of your list.

If you’re looking for something a little different, Goldstein’s absolute favorite place in Chicago is Rose Mary, a Croatian and Italian restaurant.

His other picks are Anelya (Ukrainian), Au Cheval (upscale American bar favorites with “a passion for eggs” and fancy drinks), Boka (American and Michelin starred), Duck Duck Goat (Chinese inspired), and Obelix (French).

Exploring Chicago

While you shouldn’t spend too much time on your feet before the race and you might not want to do much more than nap after, Chicago is an amazing city with plenty to do and see.

Have you even been to Chicago if you didn’t take a photo with “The Bean” in Millennium Park? This mirrored sculpture is titled “Cloud Gate” but it’s better known as “The Bean” and has become a must-see feature in Chicago’s downtown.

Take a shoreline cruise from the legendary Navy Pier. Kick back and take in the city’s skyline with a cruise down the Chicago River. For less than $50 a person, you can spend a beautiful day on the water checking out the architecture of the city. We recommend checking this out post-marathon, especially if you’re prone to seasickness. If you’re planning this before the big race, try to stay really hydrated and avoid getting overheated.

Loosen up with a walk on the Chicago Riverwalk. This scenic 1.25-mile paved trail is a natural paradise tucked in the city’s urban landscape.

But if waiting in your hotel room until race morning is more your jam, don’t worry! The marathon itself is a running tour of the city and you’ll get to see some of the coolest sights on foot.

Shakeout Runs

There are many activities for runners during Chicago Marathon weekend and jumping into a shakeout run will help you loosen up with a few easy miles a day or two before the race. Here are free events with available spots:

Pre-Race Shakeout by Tracksmith
Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Time: 8:00 A.M. CST
Distance: 3 miles
Location: Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

Matt Choi’s Shakeout Run
Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Time: 8:00 A.M. CST
Distance: 3 miles
Location: Grant Park, Buckingham Memorial Fountain, 301 S Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

Chicago Marathon Shakeout Run with @resiliencyinrunning & @fastandflow_
Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Time: 8:00 A.M. CST
Distance: 1-4 miles
Location: Foxtrot Market, 23 West Maple Street, Chicago, IL 60610

Arc’teryx and Latinas Run Chicago
Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Time: 9 A.M.
Distance: 3.1 miles
Location: Arc’teryx Rush Street, 1007 North Rush Street, Chicago, IL 60611

Runners Empire Chicago Marathon Shakeout Run
Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Time: 9 A.M.
Distance: A couple of miles
Location: Art Institute, 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

Realistic Runners Shakeout Run + Walk
Date: Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Time: 10:00 A.M. CST
Distance: 3 miles
Location: PiniPico Coffee, 1538 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60610

How to Recover

If you’re in town for a day or so after the race, you could treat yourself to a massage or spa day to help your tired muscles recover.

“The Langham Spa is amazing, but somewhat expensive,” says Goldstein. Hey, after a marathon, it might be worth it. He also suggests Allyu and AIRE Ancient Baths Chicago.

The Best Spectator Viewing Locations

The Chicago Marathon is one of the most spectator-friendly races in the world. Thanks to the looped course and the city’s efficient public transit, spectators can catch their marathoners at multiple points along the route.

Organizers and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) have nearly perfected the art of making the race accessible and easy to navigate. The train is the best way to get around the city on race day since there will be road closures and traffic that could impede your efforts to get around.

Before you plan your spectating day, download the Chicago Marathon App so you can track your runner throughout the race. The marathon website also provides this handy guide to spectating if you’re determined to see your runner as much as possible without running a marathon yourself.

It’s fine if your approach to cheering is a bit more fluid than jumping on and off the Red Line, but we do advise having a loose plan if you’re unfamiliar with the city. Here are some viewing spots you might want to check out.

Mile 1 & 3 (Grand Red Line Station): See your runner early at mile 1 on Grand Avenue, then walk a few blocks west to LaSalle Street (mile 3) to catch your runner again.

Mile 8 & 8.5 (Sheridan and Addison Red Line Stations): These stations offer prime viewing in Lakeview.

Mile 13 (West Loop): The halfway point. It’s a big deal to make it here and some crowd support is always nice. (Do not tell them they are almost there.)

Mile 18 (Pilsen): Known for having DJs and a party atmosphere, Pilsen is the perfect place to give runners a much-needed morale boost in the later stages of the race.

Mile 22 (Chinatown): Another iconic spot, Chinatown’s energy helps push runners through the toughest miles.

Finish Line (Grant Park): If you’re dedicated to seeing your runner cross the finish, consider purchasing a $30 ticket for exclusive access to the East Side Viewing Area. If you have a ticket, head to Grant Park at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and 11th Street for entry.

Plan ahead for where to meet your runner after they finish. The “27th Mile Post-Race Party” in Grant Park opens at 9:30 a.m., but since it will be crowded, agree on a specific meeting spot.

How to Watch the Chicago Marathon

If you’re interested in watching the elites zoom around Chicago from the comfort of your home, there are live-streaming options in English and Spanish.

NBC 5 Chicago and Telemundo Live Chicago will broadcast the marathon live from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. CST

You can live stream the Chicago Marathon here on the NBC 5 Chicago site or here on the Telemundo Live Chicago site.

Live streaming is also available on the NBC 5 Chicago and Telemundo Chicago apps or through the NBC 5 Chicago app on Roku.