NYC Marathon 2026

NYC Marathon Finish Line 68th Street and West Drive

Enjoy watching the final three miles of the annual TCS NYC Marathon in Central Park!

The TCS New York City Marathon, the world’s largest marathon, is one of NYC’s most iconic and anticipated annual sporting events. Drawing over three million spectators globally, it showcases more than 50,000 runners racing through all five boroughs of New York City, beginning in Staten Island and finishing in Central Park.

The 2026 race carries special significance. It marks the 50th anniversary of the iconic five-borough course, which was first run in 1976 to celebrate the nation's Bicentennial. What began as a small loop around Central Park in 1970 has grown into the largest marathon on the planet, and the 2025 race set a new world record with 59,226 finishers crossing the line.

The last three miles take place inside Central Park, finishing on West Drive at West 67th Street, right next to the famous Tavern on the Green restaurant. The park will be buzzing with excitement and packed with runners, spectators, and race officials.

Course Timeline & Overview

The race kicks off early on Staten Island and officially begins at 8:00 AM, starting with the Professional Wheelchair and Handcycle divisions. The main running waves start later, with the first wave beginning at 9:10 AM, and continuing through late morning, with the last wave starting around 11:30 AM. Visit this page for the full timeline.

The marathon covers 26.2 miles through all five boroughs:

  • Start: Staten Island, crossing the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge (the highest point on the course).
  • Brooklyn: Fast downhill entry with crowd support through neighborhoods like Bay Ridge and Williamsburg.
  • Queens: Includes the challenging Queensboro Bridge climb.
  • Manhattan & Bronx: Running up First Avenue, crossing into the Bronx, then returning via Madison Avenue Bridge.
  • Finish: Through Harlem along Fifth Avenue, culminating in the challenging hills of Central Park.

Where to Watch in Central Park

Great places to watch the NYC Marathon in Central Park include:

  • The Finish Line Area at West Drive and West 67th Street (Tavern on the Green): This is the most iconic spot where runners complete the race. Grandstand seating is available here by ticket, and there are standing spectator areas nearby for the emotional final moments.
  • Columbus Circle (United Airlines Zone): Just at the southwest corner of Central Park, this spot offers a good view of runners finishing the last part of the course. Spectator access includes grandstands and standing areas.
  • Along Central Park West between West 59th and West 81st Streets: This stretch is part of the final miles inside the park; crowd density varies, and there are multiple vantage points to cheer runners.
  • East Side Entry into Central Park at Engineer's Gate (East 90th Street): A popular spot where runners enter the park. This is where runners face one of the toughest points, often hitting "the dreaded wall." Your encouragement here can be especially uplifting!
  • Between East 86th and East 90th Streets: A less crowded area with good views and easier park crossing options.

Race Day Tips for Spectators

  • Download the NYRR App: for live runner tracking, course updates, and helpful maps
  • Runner Tracking: Or visit https://liveresults.nyrr.org/ to keep tabs on your favorite runners in real-time.
  • How to Get Around: Navigating Central Park during the race requires caution. Crossing Park Drives (the runners’ route) isn’t allowed. Use underpasses at Greywacke Arch (80th St), Trefoil Arch (73rd St), Willowdell Arch (67th St), and Inscope Arch (62nd St).
  • Where to Park: See below for discounted parking options. Consider parking outside direct race routes and use public transit to avoid closures.

Get Discounts on Parking for the 2026 NYC Marathon

Race day brings large crowds and street closures, making parking a challenge. Plan ahead and reserve a spot to enjoy race day without the hassle.

Our partner LAZ Parking offers discounted rates at the following locations:

South Side Garages: Located just south of Central Park, these garages offer quick access to the finish line area and prime spectator spots along the park's southern edge.

East Side Garage: Perfect for fans wanting to view runners along 5th Avenue or enjoy Central Park’s eastern entry points.

West Side Garage: Ideal for easy access to the final miles inside Central Park and the finish line area.

Celebrities Running the 2026 TCS NYC Marathon

Check back for details.

Planning Ahead: Road and Street Closures

Navigating New York City during the marathon requires checking street closures in advance.

For detailed information, see this list of road and street closures.

Info

NYC Marathon Finish Line 68th Street and West Drive
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