Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2027

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon course is known for its flat, fast profile with minimal elevation changes, making it perfect for setting personal bests. Runners can expect a smooth route with wide streets that help prevent congestion, especially in the early miles. The course offers consistent pacing opportunities and energetic crowd support throughout, providing an extra boost, especially in the final miles heading into Grant Park.

Getting to Chicago:
Chicago is served by two airports: Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW). Most international flights land at O’Hare, located 17 miles from downtown.

• From O’Hare: The Blue Line “L” train operates 24/7 and takes about 45 minutes to reach the city center. A taxi costs $40–$50 plus tip and usually takes 40–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
• From Midway: The Orange Line “L” train connects Midway to downtown in around 25 minutes. Taxi and rideshare services typically cost $30–$40 plus tip.

Getting around Chicago:
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) runs one of the largest public transit systems in the U.S. with eight “L” train lines serving 145 stations across the city.

• The Blue Line connects O’Hare International Airport and downtown, operating 24/7.
• The Red Line connects the North and South Sides through downtown and runs 24/7.
• Bus: The CTA bus network covers nearly every neighborhood, with stops every few blocks. Many bus routes run late, with Night Owl services operating until 2 a.m. or later.
• Taxi: Yellow cabs, Uber, and Lyft are widely available throughout Chicago. From the airports, taxis are metered and regulated, while rideshare offers app-based convenience. Typical fares range from $30–$50 depending on distance and traffic.
• Walking: Chicago is highly walkable. Exploring on foot lets visitors enjoy the city’s iconic architecture, scenic lakefront, and vibrant neighborhoods while soaking in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon atmosphere.

With Sports Tours, you never run alone. We’ll meet you at your hotel, escort you to the race expo and get you to the start line with ease. Join us for a 5km shakeout run, meet fellow runners and celebrate together post-race.

Make your own way into the city and check in to your chosen hotel. A Sports Tours International representative will be available in the hotel reception at various times throughout the day to welcome you and assist with any questions.

Depending on your arrival time, our reps will accompany you to the marathon expo to collect your race bib. In the evening, join us for our welcome reception – a great way to meet fellow Sports Tours runners, especially for solo travelers looking to connect.

In the morning, our Sports Tours reps will lead a gentle 5 KM shakeout run departing from your hotel.

Following the run, we are hosting our pre-race briefing at the Hyatt Centric Magnificent Mile conference room. The briefing provides valuable insights and last-minute advice to help you prepare for race day and to address any remaining questions you may have.

For those who have not yet collected their race bib, our team will accompany you to the marathon expo. Please ensure you have your photo ID with you for collection.

In the afternoon, you have the option to join a complimentary Chicago Architecture River Cruise (optional). Boarding points are conveniently located within a radius of 5-10 minutes’ walk from your hotel.

Today, you’ll take your place at the start line alongside thousands of runners, ready to experience the world-renowned Bank of America Chicago Marathon!

Our Sports Tours reps will escort spectators to our dedicated cheer zone, where our staff and fellow supporters will be ready to encourage and celebrate every runner along the course.

This evening, we invite you and your companions to a post-race celebration at the iconic House of Blues. Enjoy a lively ‘rock and blues’ inspired atmosphere, world-famous dishes, complimentary drinks, and live music as we toast your achievement! Please note: Due to our limited capacity, attendance is by invitation only, and an RSVP is required.

In the morning, you’re invited to join the second Chicago Architecture River Cruise (optional), a perfect opportunity if you were unable to attend the first cruise on Saturday.

Boarding points are just a 5-10 minute walk from your hotel. Following check-out, please make your own way to the airport for your onward or return journey. Please note that flights are not included and should be arranged independently.

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2027 takes place on Sunday 10th October 2027 in Chicago, USA. The event is traditionally held on a Sunday, making it a great choice for runners planning a long weekend overseas.

The most reliable way to secure your place is by booking one of our Sports Tours International Chicago Marathon packages, which include guaranteed Chicago Marathon entry.

This means you won’t need to enter the public Chicago Marathon lottery, meet entry standards, or arrange a separate registration process. Your race bib and official confirmation are included as part of the package, allowing you to focus on travel and training instead of ballot uncertainty or arranging your own entry.

There are no qualifying times required when booking through Sports Tours International, because your entry is guaranteed within our packages.

For independent entrants, the Chicago Marathon does not require qualifying times. Entry is usually via the Chicago Marathon lottery or other entry routes. However, demand often exceeds ballot places, which is why our guaranteed Chicago Marathon entry is so valuable for UK participants.

Sports Tours International offers a range of carefully selected hotel packages for the Chicago Marathon.

These packages are designed to take the stress out of travel logistics, so you can concentrate on your race and the experience of exploring Chicago.

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is organised by Bank of America in partnership with the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA), and is recognised as one of the world’s leading marathon events. It is part of the global marathon calendar and supported by local authorities to ensure high standards of safety and organisation.

October in Chicago typically offers cool, race‑friendly conditions, with average temperatures between 50–59°F. These conditions are ideal for marathon running and often contribute to faster times on Chicago’s famously flat and fast course.

The Chicago Marathon start line is located in Grant Park, near Congress Plaza Drive. Runners assemble in this well‑organized start area before embarking on a memorable tour of Chicago’s neighborhoods and skyline.

The finish line is also in Grant Park, creating a seamless loop from start to finish for runners. This central location makes it easy for spectators to watch and for runners to celebrate their achievement after crossing the line.

The entry fee for standalone registration varies depending on when and how you enter. When booking through Sports Tours International, your race entry is included as part of the overall package, which also covers accommodation and support services – offering a guaranteed and hassle‑free alternative to independent entry.

The Chicago Marathon is one of the most iconic road races in the world. Since the first Chicago Marathon in 1977, the event has grown into a major international race known for its flat and fast course and enthusiastic crowd support.

Over the years, the Chicago Marathon has seen numerous world records, with elite athletes breaking barriers on its marathon course thanks to favorable conditions and a steady mile pace that runners love. Today, it stands shoulder‑to‑shoulder with the Abbott World Marathon Majors and attracts runners from across the globe.