Race guide
New York City Marathon Guide
The New York City Marathon is a rolling, five-borough point-to-point race held in November. It is not a flat personal-best course — the bridges create real climbs, including a tough start over the Verrazzano and a late rise into Central Park. Effort-based pacing over the bridges, rather than chasing even splits, is what makes NYC run well.
- Location
- New York City, USA
- Distance
- Marathon (42.2 km / 26.2 mi)
Typical conditions
Held in early November. Usually cool (around 5–12°C), sometimes windy — especially exposed on the bridges. The wind over the Verrazzano at the start can be significant.
Course & elevation
- Begins with a steep climb over the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, then tours all five boroughs.
- Several bridges punctuate the course with climbs and descents — it is a rolling, honest route, not a flat one.
- A demanding final stretch: the Queensboro Bridge near 25 km, First Avenue, then a rise into Central Park to finish.
Pacing strategy
- Pace by effort, not pace, on the bridges — let your watch pace drift on climbs and recover on descents.
- Do not chase a target pace over the Verrazzano; settle once you are off the bridge.
- Save energy for the rolling final miles into Central Park, which feel harder than the profile suggests.
Frequently asked questions
Is the New York City Marathon hilly?
It is rolling rather than flat. The bridges create real climbs, including a steep start and a late rise into Central Park, so it is not a typical personal-best course.
How should I pace the NYC Marathon?
Run by effort over the bridges rather than fixed pace, and save energy for the rolling final miles in Manhattan and Central Park.
What is the weather like at the NYC Marathon?
Early November is usually cool and sometimes windy, with the most exposed wind on the bridges.
Plan your race day with Pacexis
Pacexis's race-day co-pilot pulls weather, course, gear, and pacing into one briefing the night before.
Explore Pacexis