The Philadelphia Marathon takes runners on a scenic tour of America's birthplace each November, passing historic landmarks, the Schuylkill River Trail, and the iconic steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. With a fast, largely flat course and a passionate local running community, Philly has become one of the most popular fall marathons on the East Coast, attracting around 30,000 participants across all race distances.
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The Event
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Event | Philadelphia Marathon 2026 |
| Date | Sunday, November 22, 2026 |
| Venue | Start/Finish: Benjamin Franklin Parkway near the Philadelphia Museum of Art |
| Address | Eakins Oval, 2451 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
| Airport | Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) |
Late November weather in Philadelphia is chilly. Expect average highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F). Race morning temperatures often hover around 4-7°C (39-45°F), with a chance of rain or even early flurries.
The Venue: Benjamin Franklin Parkway
The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is Philadelphia's grand boulevard, modeled after the Champs-Elysees in Paris. It runs from City Hall to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, lined with flags, fountains, and cultural institutions. The start/finish area at Eakins Oval sits at the foot of the famous "Rocky Steps," making for one of the most dramatic marathon settings in the country.
What's nearby:
- Philadelphia Museum of Art — world-class art museum and home of the famous Rocky Steps, right at the finish line
- The Barnes Foundation — extraordinary collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early Modernist paintings
- Rodin Museum — the largest collection of Rodin's works outside of Paris, located along the Parkway
- Logan Square — the grand circle at the center of the Parkway featuring the Swann Memorial Fountain
Important: Road closures on race day extend throughout Center City. If spectators plan to move between viewing spots, the SEPTA subway is the best option. Arrive at the finish area early to secure a good viewing position.
Where to Stay
Center City is the ideal base, offering walkable access to the start/finish on the Parkway, the expo at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and excellent restaurants. The Rittenhouse Square area is particularly charming. University City across the Schuylkill River offers more affordable options with easy transit access.
The Logan Philadelphia — Best for Start/Finish Access
Located directly on Logan Square along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, The Logan puts you within a short walk of the start and finish line. The rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Parkway and the Museum of Art. A modern, stylish hotel with excellent service.
Sonesta Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square — Best Overall Location
Situated near Rittenhouse Square, this hotel offers a great balance of location, comfort, and dining access. The surrounding neighborhood is one of Philadelphia's best for restaurants and cafes. It is about a 20-minute walk or short rideshare to the Parkway.
Apple Hostels Philadelphia — Best Budget Option
Located in Old City near Independence Hall, Apple Hostels offers clean dorm beds and private rooms at very affordable prices. The location is excellent for sightseeing, and the Market-Frankford Line connects you to the Parkway area. A solid choice for budget-conscious runners.
Getting There
From Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
PHL is located approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) southwest of Center City Philadelphia.
| Option | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEPTA Airport Line | ~25 min | $7.00 | Trains every 30 min to Center City stations |
| Taxi/Rideshare | ~20 min | $30-40 | Flat rate zone pricing for taxis |
| SEPTA Bus (Route 37) | ~45 min | $2.50 | Budget option, connects to Broad Street Line |
The SEPTA Airport Line is the easiest option, stopping at University City, 30th Street Station, Suburban Station, and Jefferson Station in Center City. Trains run every 30 minutes and the ride is quick and comfortable.
Public Transport
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Single ride (bus/subway) | $2.50 |
| Day pass (convenience pass) | $6.00 |
| Weekly TransPass | $25.50 |
Load a SEPTA Key card at any station for discounted fares and seamless transfers. Philadelphia's transit system includes subway, trolley, and bus lines that cover the city well, though Center City is also very walkable.
Where to Eat
Rittenhouse Square area — Philadelphia's most upscale dining neighborhood, with everything from fine Italian to casual brunch spots, all within walking distance of each other. Reading Terminal Market (12th and Arch Streets) — a historic indoor market with over 80 vendors serving everything from Amish specialties to fresh pasta, open since 1893.
Philadelphia Food to Try
- Cheesesteak — the city's most famous export, a long roll stuffed with thinly sliced beef and melted cheese, best at Pat's King of Steaks, Geno's Steaks, or Jim's South Street
- Roast pork sandwich — many locals argue this is Philly's best sandwich, slow-roasted pork with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone from DiNic's at Reading Terminal Market
- Soft pretzel — the classic Philadelphia street snack, warm, doughy, and served with mustard from any corner vendor
- Tomato pie — a thick-crusted pizza topped with tomato sauce and little or no cheese, a Philly tradition
- Water ice — Philadelphia's version of Italian ice, a refreshing frozen treat available in dozens of flavors at shops like Rita's
Budget eating: Reading Terminal Market is paradise for affordable, high-quality food. Chinatown, located just blocks from the Convention Center, offers excellent noodle shops and dim sum. Street food carts throughout Center City sell cheesesteaks and falafel for under $10.
Essential Philadelphia Tips
Currency. US Dollar (USD). Cash vs card. Card is accepted at most places, but carry cash for Reading Terminal Market vendors, food carts, and smaller shops. Tipping. 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 15-20% for taxi and rideshare drivers. Language. English is the primary language. Weather in November. Highs around 10°C (50°F) and lows around 2°C (36°F). Late November can be quite cold, so bring warm layers for spectating and a disposable layer for the start corral. Safety. Center City, Old City, and the Parkway area are safe for visitors. Exercise standard urban awareness, especially at night. Avoid poorly lit areas away from the tourist zones.
What to See
- Independence Hall & Liberty Bell — the birthplace of American democracy and the iconic cracked bell, both free to visit in Old City
- Philadelphia Museum of Art — run up the Rocky Steps for an iconic photo, then explore the world-class collection inside
- Reading Terminal Market — one of America's oldest and largest public markets, a feast for the senses
- Eastern State Penitentiary — a fascinating, eerie historic prison turned museum in the Fairmount neighborhood
- LOVE Park (JFK Plaza) — the famous LOVE sculpture overlooking the Benjamin Franklin Parkway
- South Street — a funky, eclectic stretch of shops, restaurants, and street art in the heart of the city
Quick Reference
| Need | Answer |
|---|---|
| Airport | Philadelphia International (PHL), ~25 min by train |
| Venue | Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Eakins Oval |
| Nearest station | Spring Garden (Broad Street Line) or 30th Street Station |
| Transport to venue | Walk from Center City hotels or SEPTA subway |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
| Cash needed? | Helpful for Reading Terminal Market and food carts |
| Language | English |
| Weather | 2-10°C (36-50°F), cold, possible rain |
| Tipping | 18-20% at restaurants |
| Emergency | 911 |
This guide will be updated as more event details are confirmed. Last updated: May 2026.