Grand Rapids Marathon 2025

• Flat, fast course with scenic river and park views.
• No qualifying times needed; open to all runners.
• Strong community support and fun atmosphere.
• Early start option and unique pace groups available.
• Convenient packet pickup at YMCA; ample aid stations and festive finish line.

The Grand Rapids Marathon offers an inviting running experience through scenic parts of Michigan, featuring a flat and fast course that is perfect for achieving a personal best or simply enjoying the journey. Runners have the choice of participating in a full marathon, half marathon, relay marathon, handcycle marathon, and associated 5K and 10K events. The course cleverly integrates downtown routes with picturesque parks, lakes, and bike paths, showcasing stunning fall colors and serene rural roads. Known for its warm and inclusive atmosphere, this marathon welcomes participants of all levels, providing an early start for walkers and an impressively supportive team of volunteers and race organizers. With well-stocked aid stations, a finish line located at the Grand Rapids YMCA with post-race amenities such as showers, and an enticing New Holland Brewery Beer Garden to celebrate afterward, the marathon promises more than just a race – it offers a memorable community celebration of health, fitness, and camaraderie.

Expect temperatures between 43-61°F (6-16°C) in mid-October for the Grand Rapids Marathon, with moderate winds that can impact your run. The weather is typically partly cloudy with a chance of rain, creating a cool and potentially wet environment.

The Grand Rapids Marathon offers a captivating 26.2-mile journey through the vibrant and diverse landscapes of Grand Rapids, Michigan. This mostly flat course, with a total elevation gain and loss of 776 feet, is a blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it ideal for those chasing personal records or Boston Marathon qualifying times.

Starting and finishing in downtown Grand Rapids, runners are treated to iconic views, including the historic Sixth Street Bridge and the serene Grand River. The route meanders past landmarks like the convention center, the Amway Grand Plaza, and the Gerald R. Ford Museum, ensuring a memorable cityscape experience. A highlight is the loop through Millennium Park, featuring the enchanting "Enchanted Forest" and picturesque lakes.

Challenging yet rewarding, the course includes a gently rolling section from mile 7 to 9.5, testing runners' pace management. The mental endurance is crucial from mile 14 onward, as the course transitions to long, straight paths with fewer spectators. However, the final miles back into town offer gentle turns and a slight downhill, providing a perfect finish to this dynamic race.

Visiting Grand Rapids, Michigan, for the marathon offers more than just an athletic challenge; it’s an opportunity to explore a vibrant city brimming with cultural treasures. Downtown Grand Rapids provides an ideal base, with hotels like the Amway Grand Plaza placing you in the heart of the action. The compact city layout makes it easy to navigate on foot or by bike, and October's crisp fall weather is perfect for both running and sightseeing.

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, a serene spot featuring over 200 sculptures and beautifully landscaped gardens. The Grand Rapids Public Museum offers interactive exhibits that delve into the city's rich history and culture, making it a great stop for all ages. Don't miss the Grand Rapids Downtown Market, where you can savor artisan cuisine and experience the city's culinary creativity.

Grand Rapids is also celebrated for its vibrant art scene and lively festivals. If your visit coincides with ArtPrize, you'll witness an incredible array of artworks displayed throughout the city. Known as Beer City USA, Grand Rapids invites you to explore its craft breweries along the Beer City Ale Trail. With a mix of cultural events, culinary delights, and scenic beauty, your trip to Grand Rapids promises to be as rewarding off the marathon course as on it.