Be Part of the Action: NYC Marathon 2025

There's something magical about the first Sunday in November in New York City. The air turns crisp, the leaves display their final brilliant colors, and over 50,000 runners from around the globe converge on our city for one of the most iconic athletic events in the world. The 2025 TCS New York City Marathon, scheduled for November 2, isn't just a race—it's a celebration of human spirit, determination, and the unbreakable bond between this city and those who dare to conquer its streets.

At Hotel Beacon, we're positioned in the heart of it all. Just blocks from Central Park's finish line and surrounded by the Upper West Side's vibrant energy, our spacious suites and prime location make us the perfect basecamp for your marathon adventure. Whether you're running or cheering, you'll experience the race from New York's most coveted neighborhood. 

A Journey Through All Five Boroughs 

The NYC Marathon is unlike any other race on Earth. Starting on Staten Island's Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge at 8:00 AM, runners embark on a 26.2-mile odyssey that weaves through all five boroughs of New York City. From the residential streets of Brooklyn to the industrial grit of Queens, across the iconic Queensboro Bridge into Manhattan's energetic Upper East Side, through the Bronx's spirited neighborhoods, and finally back to Manhattan for a triumphant finish in Central Park—every mile tells a different story of our diverse, magnificent city. 

What makes this marathon truly special is how it transforms New York into one giant cheering section. More than one million spectators line the route each year, creating an electric atmosphere that carries runners through their most challenging moments. The roar of the crowd, the handmade signs, the impromptu dance parties at water stations, and the genuine encouragement from complete strangers—this is New York at its absolute finest. 

Prime Spectating Spots Along the Route 

If you're planning to cheer on the runners, timing and location are everything. The best viewing experiences come from understanding the race's geography and rhythm. Fourth Avenue in Brooklyn, particularly around Bay Ridge  and Park Slope, offers excellent vantage points during the race's early miles when runners are still fresh and the crowds are building energy. The sound of thousands of feet hitting the pavement creates an almost meditative rhythm that's unforgettable. 

For a truly New York moment, position yourself along First Avenue in Manhattan, roughly between 59th and 96th Streets. This stretch, typically reached by runners around the 16 to 18-mile mark, is where determination meets exhaustion, and the crowd's support becomes crucial. The avenue runs straight and true, allowing you to see runners approaching from blocks away—a river of colorful jerseys and boundless courage. 

The final miles through Central Park offer another spectacular viewing opportunity. Enter the park from the Upper West Side, and you'll witness runners digging deep for their finishing kick. There's something profoundly moving about watching someone cross that finish line, whether they're a world-class elite athlete or a first-time marathoner achieving a lifelong dream. 

Your Perfect Marathon Weekend at Hotel Beacon 

Located on the Upper West Side at 2130 Broadway, Hotel Beacon sits in the perfect location for marathon weekend. We're just blocks from Central Park, where the race concludes, and our neighborhood comes alive with pre-race energy and post-race celebrations. The Upper West Side has long been a runner's paradise, with its proximity to Central Park's running paths and the Hudson River Greenway, and during marathon weekend, that energy multiplies tenfold. 

Our spacious rooms and suites provide the perfect retreat after a day of spectating or, if you're running, the ideal place to rest and prepare. Many of our suites feature kitchenettes, allowing runners to prepare their pre-race meals exactly as they need them—no restaurant schedules or menu limitations. For spectators, it's the perfect spot to gather with friends and family, plan your viewing strategy, and warm up between cheering stations. 

The neighborhood itself becomes part of the marathon experience. Local restaurants and cafés extend their hours and offer special marathon menus. Running stores host packet pickup events and gear exhibitions. The streets buzz with runners doing their final shakeout runs through Central Park, international visitors soaking in the New York atmosphere, and locals sharing their favorite race-day tips with anyone who'll listen. 

Beyond the Race: A Weekend of Possibilities 

Marathon weekend in New York offers so much more than the race itself. The TCS New York City Marathon Expo, held at the Javits Center, is a destination in its own right—a massive showcase of running technology, apparel, nutrition, and inspiration. Even if you're not running, the expo offers fascinating insights into the sport and the opportunity to snag some official marathon merchandise. 

Central Park becomes even more special during marathon weekend. Take a morning stroll through the park on Saturday to soak in the pre-race excitement. You'll see runners doing their final easy miles, visualizing the course, and sharing nervous excitement with fellow participants. The park's fall foliage provides a stunning backdrop, and the atmosphere is electric with anticipation. 

For food enthusiasts, the Upper West Side delivers exceptional dining options for carbo-loading or celebration meals. From classic New York pizza to upscale Italian restaurants, cozy brunch spots to trendy juice bars, our neighborhood caters to every taste and dietary need. Post-race, there's no better feeling than enjoying a well-earned meal with fellow runners or cheering squad while recounting the day's unforgettable moments. 

Be Part of Something Bigger 

Whether you're a runner tackling your first marathon, a seasoned athlete chasing a personal record, or a spectator supporting someone special, the NYC Marathon represents something universal—the power of setting a goal and refusing to quit. It's about community, perseverance, and the extraordinary things that happen when a city opens its heart to the world. 

At Hotel Beacon, we're honored to host marathon participants and spectators year after year. We've heard countless stories of triumph, witnessed tears of joy in our lobby, and celebrated personal victories big and small. We've prepared pre-dawn breakfasts for nervous runners and welcomed exhausted finishers with warm smiles and comfortable beds. 

The 2025 TCS New York City Marathon on November 2 is your invitation to be part of this incredible tradition. Whether you're running those 26.2 miles or cheering from the sidelines, whether you're a New York native or visiting from across the globe, this race will remind you why New York City is truly the greatest city in the world. 

Book your stay at Hotel Beacon and make this marathon weekend one you'll never forget. We can't wait to welcome you to our neighborhood and our city for this spectacular celebration of human achievement.