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The 2025 New York City Marathon, taking place on Sunday, November 2, is not only one of the most anticipated events on the world calendar, but also a huge party that transforms the city into a spectacle of energy, music, and excitement. If you’ll be in New York that weekend, this guide will help you plan the best route to experience the race like a true New Yorker.
How to get around the city
The best way to get around as a spectator is by subway. The underground system will allow you to easily reach various points along the route. Before traveling, check mta.info or use the chat in the MTA app to plan your trips.
Please note that there are no spectator areas at the start or on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, but you can watch the start via the official broadcast and follow your runners in real time using the NYRR app developed by Tata Consultancy Services.
Recommended places to watch the race
Before defining your vantage points, it’s essential to be familiar with the New York City Marathon route. Studying the course will allow you to anticipate the best places to cheer, calculate timing between miles, and avoid blocked intersections or restricted access areas. You can review the complete map and route details in this article:
| Area | Miles / Kilometers | What to see | Metro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn | Miles 2–4 / Km 3–6 | Runners leaving the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, high energy at the start. | R |
| Fourth Ave & Flatbush Ave | Mile 8 / Km 13 | Key intersection before downtown Brooklyn. | B, D, N, Q, R, 2, 3, 4, 5 |
| Williamsburg and Greenpoint | Miles 10–13 / Km 16–21 | Streets full of local cafes and bars, ideal for entertaining. | G, L, M, J |
| Pulaski Bridge (Queens) | Mile 13.1 / Km 21.1 | Halfway through the route; the view from Queens is spectacular. | 7, G, E |
| First Avenue, Manhattan | Miles 16–18 / Km 25–29 | One of the liveliest areas, full of bars and restaurants. | N, Q, R, 4, 5, 6, F |
| East Harlem / Spanish Harlem | Miles 18–20 / Km 29–32 | Latin heart with great atmosphere and music. | 6 |
| Charity Cheer Zone (1st Ave & 120th St) | Miles 19–20 / Km 30–32 | Official area to encourage solidarity runners. | 6 |
| Fifth Avenue (E 90th–E 105th) | Miles 23–24 / Km 37–39 | Halfway through the route, the view from Queens is spectacular. | Q, 4, 5, 6 |
| Columbus Circle (United Airlines Zone) | Mile 26 / Km 42 | Final zone of the tour and prelude to Central Park. | A, C, D, 1 |
Finish line and arrival areas
The finish line is located on West Drive at 67th Street in Central Park. There are two options for viewing the finish:
- Grandstand Seating: Reserved seating area (ticket required).
- Standing Spectator Area: Standing area within Central Park from Columbus Circle to approximately 150 meters before the finish line.
There is no spectator access north of the finish line, and all entrances to the park will be controlled for security reasons.
How to see your runner multiple times
One of the best experiences of the New York City Marathon is being able to join your runner at different points along the route. With a good plan, you can see them up to three or four times during the race.
According to the Badass Lady Gang, an effective strategy is to start in Brooklyn (say, mile marker 7), then move toward Manhattan around mile marker 17, and end up on Fifth Avenue or in Central Park around mile marker 24. The subway will allow you to make these trips quickly if you plan your transfers ahead of time.
It’s also a good idea to agree in advance on which side of the street the runner and spectator will be standing so they can see each other in the crowd, as well as identify specific colors or clothing. If you plan to move around during the race, bring a portable charger, as you’ll be using the tracking app for several hours, and have a meeting point ready for after the finish line, as cell phone coverage can be congested.
Tips for cheering up
Before the race
- Download the NYRR app and create your points itinerary to see your runner.
- Let your friends or family know what mileage you’ll be at so they know when to expect you.
- Wear comfortable, layered clothing; the weather can change throughout the day.
- Bring water, snacks, and tissues—it’s going to be a long day.
During the race
- Don’t forget to cheer: all runners, not just yours, will appreciate your support.
- Use the names or countries on the numbers to personalize your cheers.
- Always stay behind the fences and avoid crossing the road.
- If you need to move between points, use the tunnels or pedestrian crossings connected to the subway.
- You may bring banners, flags, or balloons, but not speakers or amplifiers.
- Spectators are not allowed to stand on the bridges.
Be respectful: don’t block access, leave trash, or leave abandoned signs. Portable restrooms are for runners only.
Safety and regulations
- “See Something, Say Something”: If you see something suspicious, notify an officer or call 866-705-6626.
- No-Drone Zone: The use of drones or flying devices is prohibited.
- Registered runners only: no one without an official bib may enter or accompany the route.
- In case of a medical emergency, call 866-705-6626 and provide the runner’s exact location.
Live it with passion
The New York City Marathon is much more than a race: it’s a celebration of the human spirit, effort, and diversity. From Brooklyn to Central Park, every mile offers a different story, pace, and emotion. Plan your day carefully, follow the rules, and get ready to experience the greatest running spectacle on earth.
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