What is the format and course profile of the marathon?

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is a road marathon covering the full distance of 42.2 km (26.2 miles). The course is recognized for being flat and fast, a characteristic that has facilitated seven world records and numerous personal bests. The route begins and ends in Grant Park and traverses 29 different Chicago neighborhoods. A visual reference of the course layout can be found via this Assets-Chicagomarathon-Com ↗ PDF.

What is the schedule for race week activities?

The event includes several scheduled activities leading up to the main race:

Thursday, October 8

• →Abbott Health & Fitness Expo & Packet Pick-up: McCormick Place, North Building, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday, October 9

• →Abbott Health & Fitness Expo & Packet Pick-up: McCormick Place, North Building, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday, October 10

• →Abbott Chicago 5K: Grant Park, 7:30 a.m. via Chicago5k ↗
• →Abbott Health & Fitness Expo & Packet Pick-up: McCormick Place, North Building, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sunday, October 11 (Race Day)

• →Gear check & Start corrals open: 5:30 a.m.
• →Men's Professional Wheelchair Start: 7:20 a.m.
• →Women's Professional Wheelchair Start: 7:21 a.m.
• →Handcycle Start: 7:23 a.m.
• →Men's & Women's Professional Start: 7:30 a.m.
• →High Performance Program Start: 7:32 a.m.
• →Wave 1 Start: 7:35 a.m.
• →Wave 2 Start: 8:00 a.m.
• →Wave 3 Start: 8:35 a.m.
• →Grant Park Spectator Opening & Post-Race Party: 9:30 a.m.
• →Gear check closure & Post-Race Party end: 4:00 p.m.

What are the requirements for packet pick-up?

• →In-person attendance is mandatory for all participants.
• →A government-issued photo ID that matches the name on the registration must be presented.

What is the cancellation and refund policy?

• →Entry fees are non-refundable.
• →Registered runners who cannot participate may cancel to receive a guaranteed entry for the 2027 event.
• →Participants canceling for the 2027 event must still pay the 2027 entry fee.

Are there any training resources available?

• →An official 18-week training program developed by Nike coaches is available on the Chicagomarathon ↗ Training & Nutrition page.

What amenities and hospitality options are offered?

• →The Bank of America Chicago Marathon App, powered by TCS ↗, provides free information for runners and spectators.
• →Hospitality options including the Skyline Hospitality Tent, Pre-Race Participant Fast Track, and Finish Line Viewing are available for purchase through the Marathon Store.