2026 United Airlines NYC Half

Runners will head from Brooklyn to Central Park in the NYC Half.

The United Airlines NYC Half is a 13.1‑mile road race that takes runners from Brooklyn to a finish in Central Park. Organized by New York Road Runners, the event brings together tens of thousands of participants of all abilities, from first‑time half‑marathoners to world‑class athletes.

Starting near Prospect Park, the course crosses the East River, passes through Midtown and Times Square, and concludes on the park drives in Central Park, where runners complete their final miles before exiting near West 77th Street.

Designed as both a major athletic event and a citywide celebration, the race also includes extensive street closures, spectator areas, and youth programming connected to race day.

What time does the race begin?

The first wave of runners is scheduled to start at approximately 7:00 AM near Prospect Park in Brooklyn.

What is the race distance and time limit?

The United Airlines NYC Half is a 13.1‑mile race with an official course time limit of 3 hours.

Where does the race finish?

Runners will finish inside Central Park in Manhattan and exit the park near the West 77th Street area.

Will runners cross the Brooklyn Bridge and pass through Times Square?

Yes. The 2026 course again takes runners over the Brooklyn Bridge, along the FDR Drive, across 42nd Street, up Seventh Avenue through Times Square, and into Central Park.

What are the street closures near Central Park?

On the race morning, there will be significant restrictions around Central Park, including closures on portions of Central Park West and the park’s internal drives during race hours. Visitors should check NYRR or NYC DOT for exact closures.

How will park access be affected?

There will be limited to no access into the park from 59th Street (Central Park South), and no public access along sections of the West Drive from 59th Street to 72nd Street during the race. Visitors should check NYRR or NYC DOT for exact 2026 access points north of closure zones.

Visit nyrr.org for more information, as well as details about the virtual half, the expo, and the kids run as well.