The TCS New York City Marathon is one of the six World Marathon Majors, taking place every November in New York City, USA. First held in 1970, it has grown into one of the most celebrated and diverse marathons in the world. The race begins on Staten Island and winds through all five boroughs—Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan—before finishing in Central Park. The course is known for its unique urban landscape and lively crowd support, making it a favourite among both elite and amateur runners. In 2024, the marathon is expected to draw around 50,000 participants, with many using the event to raise funds for various charities. The TCS New York City Marathon embodies the spirit of the city, celebrating resilience, community, and the joy of running.
We’re beyond excited to bring you the ultimate weekend experience. From Fast Braid Friday to the official Runna shakeout run, our NY Runna Hub has you covered to be race-day ready for Sunday, November 3rd.
Plan your perfect NY weekend itinerary and check out our event line up here!
📍 1875 Broadway, New York City
⏰ Thursday, October 31st - Sunday, November 3rd
💼 What Should I Pack?
Packing for race day is crucial. Not only is it important to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything vital, but also to get that pre-race buzz turned up! Here’s some things to consider:
Running Kit: Wear your race-day outfit before you set off for the race in the morning.
Sports Nutrition: Pack any gels, chews, or snacks you’ve used in training. There will be gels handed out on the course, but bring your own so you know you're prepped!
A pre-run layer: It is a good idea to bring an old jumper to the start line to keep warm. It can be COLD early in New York, even if the forecast is bright for the rest of the day. We would suggest bringing some warm clothes which you can then discard at the start line. Runners can discard clothing at the start of the race and NYRR will donate clothes to All Of Us.
Bag Drop: Pack a warm top, spare socks, blister plasters, and a recovery snack for after the race. See more information on how to drop your pre-check bag in the next paragraph.
Electronics: Charge your phone, watch, and headphones the night before. Download any necessary playlists which will get you through those kms!
🎒Bag Drop
Important information from New York Road Runners
Runners have the option to pre-check a bag at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park on Friday, November 1 and Saturday, November 2 from 9:00a.m to 5:00p.m and retrieve it in the post-finish area on race day after they finish their race.
Runners will NOT be able to check a bag at the start on race morning and have it transported to the finish.
Runners who pre-check a bag can retrieve that bag after they finish the race in the post-finish area located on Central Park West between West 70th Street and West 71st Street until 7:00pm. After 7:00pm, all unclaimed bags will be moved to the NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub where they will be available for pickup on Marathon Monday, November 4 from 10:00am to 8:00pm.
Please Note:
The bag you check must be the official pre-check bag you will receive at the TCS New York City Marathon Expo Presented by New Balance; no other bags will be accepted at bag pre-check.
You will not have the option to check a bag at the start on race day for transport to the finish.
Bag pre-check will be located at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park; enter the park at either 5th Avenue at East 72nd Street or Central Park West at West 72nd Street.
Bag pre-check will close at 5:00pm on Saturday, November 2.
Please do not pack perishable items such as fruit and vegetables.
All finishers, regardless of bag pre-check selection, will receive a poncho in the post-finish area.
Please review our Security Measures page for a list of prohibited items; you may not check these items.
NYRR is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen bags or items from bags checked at NYRR bag check.
Please see information from the official race organisers here.
🗺️ How do I collect my race bib and where is the Expo located?
The NYC TCS New York City Marathon Expo Presented by New Balance, takes place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan.
The specific address is:
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
655 W 34th St,
New York, NY 10001.
This vibrant three-day event features hundreds of exhibitors showcasing the latest in running gear, nutrition, and technology, as well as exclusive merchandise. It’s also the designated location for participants to pick up their race packets. The Expo provides an opportunity for runners to connect with fellow athletes and explore various wellness offerings leading up to the marathon. Check out the opening dates and times below:
For more information, please click here: NYC Marathon Expo.
🚌 How do I get to the start line?
You will have already selected your transportation which you are required to take to the start line. Be sure to arrive early to allow time for security checks and to get settled before the race begins!
Staten Island Ferry
Departure Location: Whitehall Terminal, Manhattan
Estimated Total Travel Time: 90 minutes
Whitehall Terminal is accessible by the 1 train (at South Ferry) and the R and W trains (at Whitehall Street–South Ferry), in addition to buses on the the M15, M20, and M55 routes. The ferry is free and transports runners to St. George Terminal on Staten Island, from which free buses transport runners to Fort Wadsworth.
Midtown Manhattan Bus
Departure Location: New York Public Library, Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street
Estimated Total Travel Time: 90 minutes (Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time)
Buses transport runners directly to Fort Wadsworth. The New York Public Library is centrally located and accessible by many subway and bus routes.
New Jersey Bus
Departure Location: MetLife Stadium Parking Lot K, near the Quest Diagnostics Training Center
Estimated Total Travel Time: 60 minutes (Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time)
Buses transport runners from MetLife Stadium Parking Lot K directly to Fort Wadsworth.
Please find further information on your selected transportation here.
🏃 Where will I be running?
The TCS New York City Marathon is renowned for its unique and diverse course, providing an unforgettable running experience. The race starts on Staten Island and finishes in Central Park, taking runners through all five boroughs: Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan. The atmosphere is electric, with over 2 million spectators lining the streets to cheer on the runners, immersed amongst the vibrant culture of the city! Throughout the course, there are numerous aid stations offering water, Gatorade, and medical support to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
🐌 How should I pace myself on race day?
Since the TCS New York City Marathon features a diverse course, you’ll have the opportunity to fully utilize the race day workout provided by Runna. Expect pacing alerts and audio cues similar to those during your training runs, helping you stay on track. Start off at a comfortable pace and aim to negative split by the halfway mark. The support along the route is incredible, and you'll truly enjoy the experience!
However, be aware that the tall buildings and skyscrapers in the city can cause some GPS issues on race day. So, it's a good idea to rely on the pace markers and your own instincts regarding your marathon pace.
Here are a few more tips on marathon pacing for you too!
👪 How do I meet up with friends and family after?
Once you've completed your TCS New York City Marathon, it's time to soak up that post-race high, reunite with loved ones and celebrate your accomplishments! It's advised to make a post-finish plan with friends and family for your race day, keeping in mind that you may not have phone service due to cellular saturation in and around the post-finish area.
After exiting Central Park at West 77th Street, you may exit the runners-only area at West 76th Street, West 74th Street, or West 69th Street, or continue south to Family Reunion. As you cross the finish line, MarathonFoto will take your picture and video. Remember to keep your race number visible, look up, and smile!
Read more information about the finish line here.
🎉 The Runna After Party
Join us for an incredible Runna after-party. We'll have post-race massages, drinks & food available for everyone who comes along. We'll be starting at 1pm, and going until 4pm! Find us at 1875 Broadway, New York, NY 10023 (Runna pop-up store).
🏅 What's Next After the Race?
You did it! Now it's time to celebrate! Grab a drink, loosen your shoelaces, and take some time to stretch and enjoy the moment.
Best of luck with your 2024 TCS New York City Marathon, and most importantly, have fun!
Take in the sights and have the best time - we will be with you every step of the way.
Check out the video below for more of our coaches' top tips for race day!