The Ultimate Marathon Weekend Itinerary in Chicago

On Sunday, October 12, 2025, Chicago will host the 47th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors and among the largest races in the world. More than 53,000 runners are expected to take on the 26.2-mile course through 29 neighborhoods, cheered on by more than one million anticipated spectators.

It’s a weekend filled with record-breaking attempts, personal milestones and unforgettable memories. But there’s more to see in Chicago than just the 26.2 miles of the course. Whether you’re running or cheering, here’s your Ultimate Marathon Weekend Itinerary in Chicago.

Friday: Welcome to Chicago

Arrive in Chicago and check into a hotel along the Magnificent Mile for easy access to shopping, dining and public transportation. A few great options include:

• The Gwen - stylish boutique style hotel with a great rooftop 
• InterContinental Chicago - classic, historic and right on Michigan Avenue 
• The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago - steps away from 360 CHICAGO and overlooking Lake Michigan

After you’ve unpacked, head to dinner at one of Chicago's beloved Italian restaurants to kick off your carb-overload weekend:

• Quartino Ristorante & Wine Bar - great atmosphere and shareable plates of pasta and pizza
• Gibsons Italia - elevated italian food with stunning river views
• Labriola Chicago - famous for pizza, fresh breads and pastas 

Saturday: Explore the City

Begin the day with a walk along the Lakefront Trail, where the lakeside and skyline views set the tone for race weekend. Stop for a hearty breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes & Café before heading out to explore.

Make your way to Navy Pier for shops, restaurants and a ride on the Ferris Wheel. Then, stop by the Chicago Marathon Expo at McCormick Place where runners can pick up their bibs, but also a fun stop for spectators with gear, samples and plenty of energy in the air.

In the evening, carb-load like a Chicagoan. It wouldn’t be a trip to the city without trying some iconic deep-dish pizza:

• Lou Malnati’s - famous for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and pasta dishes
• Giordano’s - famous for its stuffed deep-dish pizzas
• Volare Ristorante Italiano - opt for a hearty bowl of pasta instead of pizza to fuel up before the big day

Afterward, visit Millennium Park for a photo in front of the iconic Cloud Gate (The Bean).

Sunday: Race Day!

Runners: Lace up for the 26.2-mile run through Chicago’s beloved neighborhoods.

Spectators: Grab a coffee and claim your cheering spot early. Some of the best viewing areas include:

• Mile 5 - Lincoln Park
• Mile 8 - Northhalsted
• Mile 15 - West Loop
• Mile 21 - Chinatown
• Mile 26 - The Loop

Once the race is over, celebrate at The Purple Pig or Eataly, both known for hearty post-race meals and celebratory drinks and you soak in the excitement of a city that just witnessed thousands of unforgettable marathon moments.

Monday: Celebrate from the Sky

The marathon may be over, but the celebration isn’t. Bring your medal to 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck and toast your achievements with a drink at CloudBar. Snap photos with your medal against the Chicago skyline. It’s the perfect way to cap off an unforgettable marathon weekend! 

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