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Richmond Marathon
Race Details:
- Location: Richmond, VA, USA
- Race Date: 11/14/2026
- Race Distances: Full Marathon, Half Marathon
What This Race Counts Toward:
Boston: Yes
World Marathon Majors: Yes
Richmond Marathon Description
The Richmond Marathon, known as “America’s Friendliest Marathon,” tours Virginia’s capital each November past the Fan District, Monument Avenue, and the James River. The Boston-qualifying course stays mostly flat with a handful of rolling hills and a memorable downhill finish along the riverbank. Vibrant fall foliage and enthusiastic crowd support round out one of the South’s most beloved marathons.
Always check the official race website for the most accurate and up-to-date race information and logistics.
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Richmond Marathon Additional Details:
Aid stations appear every two miles, and beyond the standard water and Gatorade, look for a pickle juice stop and dedicated junk food stations that runners consistently rave about. Live DJs, bands, and cheer squads line the route to keep energy high through the rolling middle miles. At the finish, the reward stacks up: medal, fleece blanket, long-sleeve technical shirt, finisher hat, beer, and pizza, more swag than most marathons bother to offer. The riverside finish area turns into a proper party afterward, with music, food, and a post-race junk food table capping off a race that earns its friendly reputation mile after mile.
Course Information
Profile: Rolling Hills
Type: Loop
Surface: Road/Pavement
Pace Groups: Yes
Time Limit: 7 hours (full), 4 hours (half)
# of Finishers
Half Marathon: 5,000
Marathon: 4,000
Elevation Details
Elevation Gain: 490 ft (full)
Elevation Loss: 578 ft (full)
Average Temperature
- Low: 38°F
- High: 56°F
Train Smarter for Race Day
A great race starts long before the starting line. Whether you’re chasing your first finish or hunting a new PR, a structured training plan takes the guesswork out of race prep — building your fitness, your confidence, and your mileage at the right pace for you.
Explore plans for every distance and experience level, from your first 5K to your next ultra.
Things to Do in Richmond, VA, USA
Make the most of race weekend — here’s how to fill the time before and after you cross the finish line.
Landmark
Pump House
Explore the 1883 Victorian Gothic Pump House along the James River Park system — an easy, low-impact stop after race weekend.
Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
Belle Isle
Explore Belle Isle, a downtown island hangout with rocks for picnicking and cool water for wading — a relaxed, flat way to spend a rest day.
Sports & Entertainment
Science Museum of Virginia
Explore hands-on exhibits at the Science Museum of Virginia, housed in a historic train station — a relaxed, indoor way to spend an afternoon after race day.
Museums & History
Virginia Museum of History and Culture
Explore Virginia’s story at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture — an easy, indoor, low-impact stop after race day.
Arts & Culture
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
See the must-see Rumors of War statue and world-renowned collections at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts — a relaxed, indoor way to spend a taper day.
Outdoors & Trails
Virginia Capital Trail
Bike the 52-mile Virginia Capital Trail, a paved path connecting Richmond to Williamsburg — choose an easy out-and-back segment for tired legs.
Shopping
Carytown
Browse the ‘Mile of Style’ in Carytown, Richmond’s beloved shopping, dining, and entertainment strip — an easy, flat stroll for a post-race souvenir.
Hotels & Lodging Near the Richmond Marathon
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Boston Qualifier: Yes