Chicago Marathon

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT

Although many runners participate in the race, even more spectators come to cheer for the runners. Many mile markers are also Cheer Zones where spectators can encourage runners on the track. At Mile 15, there is also a Charity Block Party where fundraising occurs alongside the race. At other Cheer Zones, Bank of America provides free entertainment and cheer items.

ON-SITE AMENITIES

General spectators are only allowed in certain areas along the route. Each runner will need an event-issued bib number or credentials to enter the start and finish areas of the race. If you are waiting for a marathon participant, you can reunite at the post-race party in Grant Park. However, you must pass through a bag screening and additional security. All visitors are welcome to purchase tickets for the Balbo Hospitality Tent. In the tent, guests can enjoy pre-race and post-race meals, recovery massage therapy, private gear check and finish-line seating. For the runners, there are several amenities along the route, including toilet facilities, Gatorade stations and a medical tent.

LOCATION

The start line will be in Grant Park at the intersection of Columbus Drive and Monroe Drive. The finish line will also be in Grant Park, on Columbus Drive south of Balbo Drive.

FAQs About RVing at the Chicago Marathon

Can you bring an RV to the event?

No RV campgrounds exist anywhere along the racecourse or at the start or finish line. You will need to camp at a campground in one of Chicago’s suburbs.

Where can you park an RV for the Chicago Marathon?

RV parking is heavily restricted given the marathon’s downtown location. It’s best to park at a suitable RV site away from the city and use public transportation to reach the event.

Are there RV hookups at the Chicago Marathon?

No, you won’t find hookups along the racecourse. However, many of the RV campgrounds in the suburban areas have hookups.

Is the Chicago Marathon family-friendly?

Yes, the Chicago Marathon is an age-appropriate event for the entire family. The post-race party also offers fun times for people of all ages.

RVING AT THE EVENT

Even though there aren’t any RV campgrounds right at the Chicago Marathon, you can still find some good options that aren’t too far away. You can then either drive your RV rental to the event, take public transportation or use a rideshare or taxi service to reach areas near the start line, finish line or other points along the racecourse.

Where to Camp Near the Chicago Marathon

Blackwell Family Camping in Warrenville is about 33 miles away from the race and features 20-amp electric hookups along with plenty of great fishing spots and hiking trials. Race View Farms, near Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway and roughly 49 miles from Chicago, is a family-owned campground that occupies 160 acres and offers 30-amp electric hookups and pull-through sites.

RV Rental Tips for the Chicago Marathon

You should book early before all the spots are taken by other RV travelers who will be coming to the Chicago area for the marathon. It’s also advisable to check with the campsite to make sure that there’s enough room for your particular RV class. Sites with hookups may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s also best to stay at a campground that has a good Wi-Fi connection and additional services, such as water and trash, so that you can have the most pleasant experience. To make your stay even more enjoyable, see our essential packing tips guide.

WHERE TO STAY

If you'd like to stay in downtown Chicago, your only option is a hotel. The Best Western Grant Park Hotel, with 172 rooms and suites, is located along the edge of Grant Park. This location is also a short walk from Soldier Field, the Art Institute, and many other museums. The HI Chicago Hostel is another place for accommodations right next to Grant Park. This hostel has dorm-style rooms and lots of options for on-site dining.

HOW TO GET THERE

Chicago is a major transportation hub. If you are traveling by RV or car, the major interstates make it a convenient drive from anywhere. These major highways and interstates include the I-90 or Kennedy Expressway, I-94 or Dan Ryan Expressway, I-55 or Stevenson Expressway, I-290 or Eisenhower Expressway and I-294 or Tri-State Tollway. If you are flying into the city, Chicago is the home of two international airports. Chicago O'Hare International Airport, the larger one, is 16 miles from downtown Chicago. Chicago Midway International Airport, the city's regional airport, is 11 miles from the downtown area.

PARKING

If you are thinking about parking during the race weekend, you need to be aware of parking restrictions. Using public transportation is strongly recommended. Those who want to drive into the city need to allow extra time for street closures and heavy traffic congestion. The closest Chicago Marathon parking options to Grant Park are available at Millennium Park, Grant Park North, Grant Park South and the Millennium Lakeside garages, but RV parking may be restricted.

TICKETS & PRICING

There are no official tickets for those who want to watch the race. Anyone in the city can line up along the race route to cheer on the marathoners. Runners must meet certain qualifications to participate in the race, and you cannot register to run the marathon on the day of the race. To learn more about the running qualifications, see the official website.

WRAP UP

Whether you’re running in the Chicago Marathon or just cheering on the participants, you’ll enjoy seeing the start and end of the big race. You can also enjoy the after-party at Grant Park and see some top Chicago downtown attractions while in town. For more updates about the Chicago Marathon, check out the event's Facebook page.

3-Day RV Itinerary for the Chicago Marathon

• Day 1: Arrival + RV setup: Arrive at your RV campsite the day before the marathon to get set up for the night. • Day 2: The main event: Get up early and travel into Chicago by public transportation or taxi service to see the Chicago Marathon in person. At the end of the day, head back to your RV campsite to get a good night’s sleep. • Day 3: Sightseeing and departure: Pack up and head out on your next RV adventure.

Please note, this is not the official source of the event information. While we try to be as comprehensive as possible, some details may have changed since the time this article was written. Please confirm final details with the official event page.

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