TCS New York City Marathon

The TCS New York City Marathon features an iconic point-to-point route spanning all five boroughs, tracing paved city avenues, bridges, and parkways. You begin on Staten Island at the western foot of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, which immediately presents the steepest elevation climb of the day within the opening mile. Descending into Brooklyn, the course flattens considerably through vibrant neighborhood corridors like Fourth Avenue and Bedford Avenue. After crossing the Pulaski Bridge at the halfway point into Long Island City, Queens, you confront the challenging, silent ascent across the Queensboro Bridge, which delivers runners onto Manhattan's wide First Avenue around mile 16.

Pacing discipline becomes crucial during the second half of the race. The long stretch north through Manhattan leads to short bridge crossings into and out of the Bronx before you re-enter Upper Manhattan heading south on Fifth Avenue. This section features a persistent, grinding uphill grade from 110th Street to 90th Street that tests tired legs before entering Central Park. The final miles loop through rolling park drives, navigating modest climbs and sweeping descents before concluding with a final push along Central Park South and finishing near Tavern on the Green.

New York City is served by three primary international airports: John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty International (EWR). While the starting village is located at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island, private vehicle drop-offs and parking are prohibited at the start. Staying in Midtown Manhattan, Lower Manhattan, or Downtown Brooklyn offers the easiest logistics, as official event transit operates via the Staten Island Ferry from Whitehall Terminal or designated charter bus hubs. The finish line exits into the Upper West Side and Midtown, making proximity to the subway network invaluable for your post-race recovery.

Early November in New York typically brings crisp, autumn running conditions, with morning temperatures often hovering between 40°F and 55°F, though brisk coastal winds along the bridges can lower the real feel. Packet pickup takes place in the days leading up to the race at the official expo, where all participants must collect their bibs in person. You should bring warm, disposable discard layers for the start village, as extended wait times outdoors in Staten Island are standard before your assigned wave start.