1. Marine Corps Marathon
2. Atlanta Marathon
3. The Outer Banks Marathon
4. SunTrust Richmond Marathon
5. The Myrtle Beach Marathon
6. Rock ‘n’ Roll New Orleans Marathon
7. The Blue Ridge Marathon
8. Country Music Marathon
9. Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and miniMarathon
10. Grandfather Mountain Marathon
Marathons take place throughout the Southeast U.S., from the coast to the mountains and beyond. These events offer participants and spectators the chance to explore new locations while pursuing various goals and passions. Below is a roundup of highlighted marathons that includes some of the most popular and unique events in the southeastern region.
Marine Corps Marathon
Late October – Arlington, Virginia and Washington D.C.
This annual fall race is known as the Marathon of the Monuments and the People’s Marathon. The beautiful course starts in Arlington, Virginia, crosses into Washington, D.C., and features numerous monuments and memorials, concluding at the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial).
Atlanta Marathon
October – Atlanta, Georgia
Being the oldest marathon in the Southeast and among the ten oldest in the nation, this event has seen several changes in its route since its beginning in 1963. The loop course takes participants past significant Atlanta landmarks like Centennial Olympic Park, the CNN Center, and more.
The Outer Banks Marathon
November – Kitty Hawk and Manteo, North Carolina
This mostly flat marathon course commences in Kitty Hawk and concludes in Manteo, offering picturesque views of Albemarle Sound and the Wright Brothers Monument. After the race, a Pirate Jamboree in Manteo features food, music, and games suitable for all ages.
SunTrust Richmond Marathon
November – Richmond, Virginia
Dubbed America’s Friendliest Marathon, this popular event invites both experienced and first-time marathoners. The course winds through unique and historic neighborhoods, providing fun amenities like junk food stops and wet washcloth stations.
The Myrtle Beach Marathon
February – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
As a Green marathon, this event hosts races suitable for all ages and abilities. The loop course showcases many popular Myrtle Beach attractions, and lively post-race parties enhance the fun.
Rock ‘n’ Roll New Orleans Marathon
January or February – New Orleans, Louisiana
This marathon takes place during the renowned Mardi Gras season, and runners have the opportunity to see many major New Orleans landmarks along the route.
The Blue Ridge Marathon
April – Roanoke, Virginia and the Blue Ridge Parkway
In celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway, this challenging inaugural marathon features breathtaking overlook views and more than 6000 feet of elevation change, making it one of the most beautiful marathon courses on the East Coast.
Country Music Marathon
April – Nashville, Tennessee
Experience the vibrant music scene with this marathon, which features performances on over 25 stages, a scenic course filled with historic sites, a festive finish line celebration, and a downtown post-race concert.
Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and miniMarathon
April – Louisville, Kentucky
As part of the renowned Kentucky Derby Festival, this popular annual event features both a miniMarathon with over 10,000 entrants and a full marathon with over 2,000 runners navigating through Louisville’s attractions and historic Churchill Downs.
Grandfather Mountain Marathon
July – Linville, North Carolina
This challenging marathon course takes place during the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games in July, offering picturesque views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, steep climbs, and the sounds of Scottish bagpipes—making it a unique summer marathon.
