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Tacoma City Marathon
Race Details:
- Location: Tacoma, WA, USA
- Race Date: 05/02/2027
- Race Distances: Full Marathon, Half Marathon
What This Race Counts Toward:
Boston: Yes
World Marathon Majors: No
Tacoma City Marathon Description
The Tacoma City Marathon starts at Point Defiance Park each May, with views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains before winding through the historic Proctor District and downtown Tacoma. The relatively flat, Boston-qualifying course pairs with a half marathon, 5K, and relay options. Friendly community spirit and scenic variety make this one of the most underrated marathons in the Pacific Northwest.
Always check the official race website for the most accurate and up-to-date race information and logistics.
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Tacoma City Marathon Additional Details:
Aid stations show up roughly every two to three miles with a choice of water or Gatorade, though runners looking for on-course calories should plan to bring their own, gels and food aren’t guaranteed at every stop. Finishers take home a custom die-cast medal, no shirt included, so pack accordingly for the finish-line chill. The reward is the setting itself: a festive finish area right on the water at Point Ruston, with plenty of food options nearby to refuel. Many runners rate this a stronger city-and-scenery combination than the larger Seattle Marathon just up the road.
Course Information
Profile: Hilly
Type: Point to Point
Surface: Road/Pavement
Pace Groups: Yes
Time Limit: 6 hours
# of Finishers
Half Marathon: 1,000
Marathon: 300-400
Elevation Details
Elevation Gain: 450 ft (137 m)
Elevation Loss: 450 ft (137 m)
Average Temperature
- Low: 48°F
- High: 64°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 Tacoma, WA, USA
Make the most of race weekend — here’s how to fill the time before and after you cross the finish line.
Outdoors & Trails
Point Defiance Park
Explore 16 miles of free trails and waterfront access at Point Defiance Park, a favorite Tacoma destination for wildlife viewing and family outings — an easy option for recovering legs.
Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
Fort Steilacoom Park
Take in open prairie and lake views on the trail system at Fort Steilacoom Park, a 340-acre destination that can be explored on foot or bike — a relaxed rest-day option.
Zoos, Aquariums & Gardens
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
See beluga whales, red pandas, and a walk-through aquarium at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, one of the oldest zoos in the Pacific Northwest — a flat, self-paced walk.
Museums & History
Washington State History Museum
Explore exhibits on the Pacific Northwest’s past at the Washington State History Museum in downtown Tacoma — an easy, indoor, low-impact stop after race day.
Landmark
Bridge of Glass
Walk the 500-foot Bridge of Glass, featuring large Chihuly art displays and connecting the Museum of Glass to historic Union Station — an easy, flat, low-impact stop after race weekend.
Arts & Culture
Museum of Glass
Watch live glassblowing demonstrations in the Hot Shop and see works by Dale Chihuly at the Museum of Glass — a relaxed, indoor way to spend a taper day.
Hotels & Lodging Near the Tacoma City Marathon
Compare nearby hotels and book your Tacoma City Marathon race-weekend stay in seconds.
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Boston Qualifier: Yes