Running Races in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a city that takes its running seriously. The Schuylkill River Trail, Fairmount Park, and the iconic Art Museum steps (yes, the Rocky steps) give runners routes with character. The Philadelphia Marathon in November is one of the best fall marathons in the country, with a fast flat course and incredible crowd support. The running community here is passionate, tough, and unpretentious.
Best Months
March to May, September to November
State
Pennsylvania
Top Race
Philadelphia Marathon
Total Races
5+ featured
Major Races in Philadelphia
Philadelphia Marathon
Marathon/HalfFast flat course through Center City and along the Schuylkill. Top tier fall marathon.
Broad Street Run
10 MileThe largest 10 miler in the US. Straight down Broad Street, all downhill.
Philadelphia Love Run
Half MarathonSpring half through the city. Fast and well organized.
Rocky 50K
50KUltra trail race through the Wissahickon Valley. Serious elevation.
AACR Philly 10K
10KFall 10K through the Art Museum area and along the river.
Course Preview Video
Course Terrain
Flat along the Schuylkill River and through Center City. Fairmount Park and Wissahickon Valley add trails and hills.
Broad Street, the Biggest 10 Miler in the Country
Broad Street Run runs straight down Broad Street from North Philadelphia to the Navy Yard, dropping in elevation from start to finish without a single significant climb. That layout consistently produces some of the fastest ten mile times of any race in the country.
Entry has stayed lottery only since 2013 because demand keeps outstripping the field cap, which has turned the Broad Street lottery announcement into its own minor event on Philadelphia running forums and group chats every year.
Marathon Weekend at the Art Museum
Philadelphia Marathon weekend pairs the Saturday Rothman 8K, which starts at the Art Museum steps, with Sunday marathon and half marathon finishes that end at the same spot, so the Rocky statue becomes both a start line and a finish line photo op depending on which day someone is racing.
The course stays mostly flat through Center City and along the Schuylkill, and November weather here is usually cool and stable, which has built the race a reputation among East Coast runners as a dependable fall Boston Qualifying attempt, the kind of race people choose for the conditions rather than the scenery alone.
Race Day Tips for Philadelphia
Broad Street Run is a lottery. Apply in February and hope. It is one of the hardest races to get into.
The Philadelphia Marathon is underrated and fast. It is a great BQ course.
Take SEPTA regional rail to most race starts. Center City is well connected.
Grab a cheesesteak after. Pat or Geno, you choose. Recovery calories.
Running Clubs in Philadelphia
Philadelphia Runner
Running store chain with a massive group run community.
Fishtown Beer Runners
Run then drink craft beer. Social running at its best.
Wissahickon Wanderers
Trail running group exploring the Wissahickon Valley.
Turn Your Philadelphia Runs Into a Game
From Old City to Manayunk, Philly has 100+ neighborhoods to claim on Motera. Run the Schuylkill Trail and capture miles of waterfront territory.
MoteraExplore Philadelphia Running Routes
Looking for where to train between races? Check out our full running guide for Philadelphia with top routes, terrain info, and local tips.
Running in Philadelphia GuideFrequently Asked Questions
How do I get into the Broad Street Run?
The Broad Street Run uses a lottery system with registration in February. With 40,000 participants, it is the largest 10 mile race in the United States. Lottery results are announced in March.
Is the Philadelphia Marathon good for a BQ?
Yes. The Philadelphia Marathon is considered one of the best BQ (Boston Qualifying) courses on the East Coast. It is mostly flat, well organized, and held in cool November weather.
What is the Wissahickon?
Wissahickon Valley Park is a 1,800 acre park with 50+ miles of trails within Philadelphia city limits. It is a hidden gem for trail runners with creek crossings, hills, and forest canopy.
When is the best time to race in Philly?
October and November are ideal with cool temperatures and fall foliage. The Philadelphia Marathon in November is the premier event. Spring races in April and May are also excellent.
Where do I run the Rocky steps?
The Rocky steps are at the Philadelphia Museum of Art at the end of Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The Schuylkill River Trail runs right past them. Many races include this area in their course.
