Best Road Races in Illinois: Where to Race Next
Running races are ideal opportunities to test your endurance, meet personal goals, and contribute to worthy causes. Illinois residents are fortunate to have several worthwhile marathons to participate in annually across the state. Here are our favorite races.
Des Plaines River Trail Marathon, Vernon Hills, IL
If you’re looking for a scenic marathon in Illinois, Des Plaines River Trail Marathon is hard to beat. Situated along the beautiful Des Plaines River Trail, this special running course features a crushed gravel track on a flat terrain surrounded by lush forests and open wetlands. Run the half marathon, marathon, or 50-mile ultra marathon.
Quad Cities Marathon, Moline, IL
The Quad Cities Marathon is a race benefiting two causes: Prostate cancer and children with life-threatening heart conditions. This 26.2-mile race is held in September each year and covers four cities, starting in downtown Moline. The flat course follows the Mississippi River for scenic river views.
Shawnee Hills 100M, 100K, 50K & Half Marathon, Ozark, IL
One of the best-known marathons in southern Illinois is the Shawnee Hills near Harrisburg. Held in October, this premier marathon is near the Shawnee National Forest and Garden of the Gods, making for a beautiful race in the fall. A full marathon and half marathon are available for runners.
The Screaming Pumpkin Marathon, Peoria, IL
The Screaming Pumpkin Marathon in Peoria is not just a race, but also a costume party. Featuring face painting, costume contests, and a spooky race, this marathon is a fall event worth checking out. Participants can run the 10K and marathon relay, then receive gifts such as t-shirts and medals for finishing.
Bank of America Marathon, Chicago, IL
Run through one of America’s most magnificent cities at the Bank of America Marathon. This marathon draws thousands of participants from all over the country and world each year, and has produced several world and national records. The flat course goes through nearly 30 Chicago neighborhoods and ends up in Grant Park.
Starved Rock Country Marathon, Ottawa, IL
Starved Rock Country Marathon is favorite in central Illinois. The course winds around the scenic Illinois River, through Ottawa neighborhoods, and into Starved Rock State Park. Runners can choose between the full or half marathon and take in views of rolling country hills and other natural wonders in the landscape.
Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon, Champaign, IL
Run for charities such as the National Kidney Foundation, Eastern Illinois Food Bank, or Breast Cancer Research Foundation when you participate in the Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon. Choose from several races such as the marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K to name a few. All races start and end on the campus of the University of Illinois.
Fox Valley Marathon, St. Charles, IL
The Fox Valley Marathon in St. Charles is an ideal race for first-time marathon runners. Located in suburban Chicagoland, this beautiful shaded course features three race destinations, frequent aid stations, and rewards for finishing. This marathon takes place in September when the weather is mild, and runners can participate in the marathon or half marathon.
Springfield Marathon, Springfield, IL
The Springfield Clinic presents an annual marathon on the country roads near Lake Springfield. Runners can also take on a Capital Challenge (Full, Half, or Mini) and receive the Capital Challenge Medal. Participants can experience the fall foliage around Lake Springfield and then take home several goodies.
Illinois 5K Run/Walk, Champaign, IL
With the theme of health and fitness, Illinois 5K Run/Walk is part of a weekend event that includes the Health & Fitness Expo and several other races. The 5K course goes through the campus and loops around Urbana and into Champaign. Participants of the 5K are provided a goody bag and race shirt.
Key Insights at a Glance
