NYC Marathon 2026: When is it and where are the best places to watch?

The NYC Marathon 2026 is on November 1. Discover the best free viewing spots, five-borough route, start times, TV coverage, and tips for watching the race in New York City

OCTOBER 29, 2026 2:59 PM EDTOCT 29, 2026, 2:59 PM EDT

New York City is gearing up for one of its most exciting annual events. The 2026 TCS New York City Marathon returns on Sunday, November 1, bringing nearly 60,000 runners and millions of spectators together for a celebration that takes over all five boroughs.

Whether you're planning to cheer on a friend, watch the world's top runners compete, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, the NYC Marathon is one of the city's must-see fall events. And the best part? You don't need a ticket to enjoy most of the action.

Jessica Aguilar is seen during the 2026 NYRR Brooklyn Half Marathon on May 16, 2026 in Brooklyn, New York.

From Brooklyn's lively streets to Manhattan's famous First Avenue and the final stretch through Central Park, here's everything you need to know about the NYC Marathon 2026, including when it starts, where to watch for free, and how to catch the race live on TV.

When Is the NYC Marathon 2026?

The 2026 TCS New York City Marathon takes place on Sunday, November 1, 2026. The annual 26.2-mile race traditionally happens on the first Sunday in November and is one of the world's largest and most celebrated marathons.

Dave Obelkevich, 83, the only person to complete every NYC Marathon since the route was expanded to all five boroughs in 1976

This year's event is particularly special because it marks the 50th anniversary of the marathon's iconic five-borough course, first introduced in 1976. The New York City Marathon originally began in 1970 as a race entirely within Central Park, with just 55 finishers. Today, it attracts nearly 60,000 runners from around the world and more than two million spectators along the route.

What Time Does the NYC Marathon 2026 Start?

The NYC Marathon begins early in the morning, with professional athletes, wheelchair competitors, and recreational runners starting at different times. The professional wheelchair division is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. Eastern Time at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island, near the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.

The first general runner wave starts at 9:10 a.m., followed by additional waves at 9:45 a.m., 10:20 a.m., 10:55 a.m., and 11:30 a.m.

Matt James is seen during the 2026 NYRR Brooklyn Half Marathon on May 16, 2026 in Brooklyn, New York.

Because runners start in different waves and travel at different speeds, spectators should plan their viewing locations accordingly. Someone watching in Brooklyn may see runners much earlier than someone waiting near Central Park.

All start times are subject to change.

Where Are the Best Places to Watch the NYC Marathon 2026?

The NYC Marathon passes through Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx, offering plenty of opportunities to experience the excitement.

Most of the course between miles 3 and 26 is open to spectators for free, although some areas near the start and finish have restrictions.

Crowds of between 100-200 people at Pier 45 in Chelsea, New York City gather for the marathon and community building

Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn: Best for Seeing Runners Early

If you want to catch runners while they're still full of energy, Fourth Avenue in Brooklyn is one of the best places to watch the NYC Marathon. The stretch between miles 3 and 8 takes runners through neighborhoods including Sunset Park and Park Slope before continuing toward Downtown Brooklyn.

Spectators can line the sidewalks, cheer on participants, and enjoy a neighborhood atmosphere filled with music, signs, and enthusiastic supporters.

Julia Khvasechko poses after crossing the finish line during the 2026 United Airlines NYC Half Marathon

The area around Fourth Avenue and Flatbush Avenue, near mile 8, is another popular viewing location with several subway connections.

This is a particularly good option for families and anyone who wants to experience the marathon without heading into Manhattan's busiest crowds.

Williamsburg and Greenpoint: Best for a Fun Neighborhood Atmosphere

Brooklyn's Williamsburg and Greenpoint neighborhoods offer some of the most entertaining spots along the NYC Marathon route. Runners pass through these neighborhoods around miles 10 to 13 before crossing the Pulaski Bridge into Queens.

The streets are lined with restaurants, coffee shops, and local businesses, making it easy to turn marathon watching into a full Sunday outing.

Cheer New York at the starting line as marathon runners begin their race

You can cheer on runners, grab coffee, and explore the neighborhood afterward.

Just remember that the Pulaski Bridge itself is closed to spectators, so choose a sidewalk viewing spot before the bridge or on the Queens side after the halfway point.

First Avenue, Manhattan: Best for the Biggest Crowds If you're looking for the classic New York City Marathon experience, First Avenue is hard to beat.

After crossing the Queensboro Bridge, runners enter Manhattan around mile 16 and head north along First Avenue. This stretch is known for its enthusiastic spectators, lively restaurants, and crowds cheering from both sides of the street.

Michael J. Fox holds a sign for his daughters at the finish line during the 2026 United Airlines NYC Half Marathon in Central Park

The area between East 70th and East 100th Streets is especially popular, although the excitement continues farther uptown.

For spectators hoping to capture memorable photos or experience the marathon at its most energetic, First Avenue is one of the top choices.

East Harlem: Best for Cheering on Runners

East Harlem offers another excellent place to watch the marathon, particularly along First Avenue between miles 18 and 20. By this point, runners have already completed a significant portion of the course, and encouragement from spectators becomes increasingly important.

The Charity Cheer Zone near First Avenue and East 120th Street is also a meaningful place to watch participants running in support of nonprofit organizations.

If you want to support runners while enjoying a lively neighborhood atmosphere, East Harlem deserves a spot on your list.

Fifth Avenue, Manhattan: Best for the Final Miles

For spectators who want to see runners tackle one of the marathon's most challenging sections, Fifth Avenue is an excellent choice. The stretch between East 90th and East 105th Streets, around miles 23 and 24, comes late in the race, when many participants are feeling the physical demands of running 26.2 miles.

This section includes a gradual uphill climb, making cheers from spectators especially welcome. It's also a smart viewing location if you're supporting a specific runner and want to encourage them before they enter Central Park.

Central Park South: Best for the Final Stretch

Central Park South is one of the most exciting places to watch the NYC Marathon as runners approach the finish. Located around mile 25, this section offers spectators a chance to see participants making their final push after traveling through all five boroughs.

Expect emotional moments, enthusiastic crowds, and plenty of runners celebrating the fact that they're almost done. For anyone who wants to experience the excitement of the final miles without purchasing grandstand tickets, Central Park South is a great option.

Central Park Finish Line: Best for Watching Runners Complete the Race

The NYC Marathon finishes inside Central Park near West 67th Street. Spectators who want a close view of runners crossing the finish line can purchase tickets for the East Side Grandstand, which overlooks the final 200 meters of the race.

A free-standing spectator area is also available inside Central Park, approaching the finish from Columbus Circle. Access may be limited depending on crowd capacity, and spectators should follow directions from event organizers and police.

Dave Obelkevich, 83, poses for a portrait in Riverside Park on October 13, 2026, in New York City, New York.

Grandstand tickets are limited, so anyone interested in reserved seating should check availability in advance.

How to Watch the NYC Marathon 2026 on TV and Online

If you can't attend the NYC Marathon in person, several television and streaming options will be available on Sunday, November 1. New York City viewers can watch live coverage on ABC7 New York, Channel 7, beginning with the pre-race show at 7 a.m. Eastern Time. The main broadcast starts at 8 a.m. and continues until 1 p.m.

Nationally, ESPN2 will broadcast the race live from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Viewers with an ESPN Unlimited subscription can stream additional coverage through the ESPN App, including the pre-race program and extended coverage after 11:30 a.m.

Spanish-language coverage will be available on ESPN3 from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For fans particularly interested in the finish line, ABC7NY.com and the ABC 7 New York App will stream a dedicated finish-line camera from 10:30 a.m. until 6 p.m.

ABC will also air a national finish-line special from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., featuring professional athletes, celebrities, and everyday runners completing the race.