What Time Does the Chicago Marathon Start? Full Schedule, Route, and Pro Tips (2025 Edition)
The Chicago Marathon is one of the most prestigious running events in the world, attracting more than 45,000 runners and over 1.7 million spectators every year. As part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, it stands alongside Boston, New York, Berlin, Tokyo, and London marathons as one of the most iconic races ever held.
One of the most common questions asked by runners and spectators alike is:
👉 “What time does the Chicago Marathon start?”
Knowing the start times, race schedule, and wave divisions is crucial for anyone planning to run, watch, or volunteer during this massive event. In this guide, we’ll break down the Chicago Marathon 2025 start time, course details, road closures, and insider tips to make race day stress-free and successful.
🕖 Chicago Marathon 2025 – Start Time Overview
The 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon will take place on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
Here’s the official start schedule (expected based on previous years):
| Category | Start Time (Approx.) |
| Wheelchair (Men’s Division) | 7:20 AM |
| Wheelchair (Women’s Division) | 7:21 AM |
| Handcycle Athletes | 7:23 AM |
| Elite Women | 7:30 AM |
| Elite Men & Wave 1 | 7:45 AM |
| Wave 2 | 8:00 AM |
| Wave 3 | 8:35 AM |
📍 Start Line Location:
Grant Park, Columbus Drive near Monroe Street, Chicago, IL.
The finish line is also located in Grant Park, which makes it easy for runners and spectators to navigate the event.
📅 Why the Start Time Matters
The early start isn’t just about tradition — it’s carefully designed for optimal running conditions and safety.
Here’s why the 7:30–8:35 AM start window works perfectly:
- Cool Temperatures: Early October mornings in Chicago usually range from 45°F to 60°F, ideal for endurance running.
- Traffic Control: The city shuts down major streets, so an early start minimizes disruption.
- Medical Support: Cooler hours reduce dehydration risks, ensuring better medical safety.
- Spectator Convenience: Morning races allow spectators to finish cheering and still enjoy the rest of their day exploring the city.
🗺️ Race Day Timeline – Step-by-Step
Planning your morning is key if you want to avoid chaos on race day. Here’s a timeline of how the morning typically unfolds:
4:30 AM – Race Village Opens
- Runners can start arriving at Grant Park.
- Security screening begins at all entry points.
5:30 AM – Gear Check Opens
- Participants can drop off personal belongings at designated gear check tents.
6:30 AM – Corrals Begin to Close
- Each starting corral has a specific closing time. Be there at least 30 minutes before your wave.
7:20 AM – Wheelchair Division Start
- The first official start of the day, with the men’s and women’s wheelchair athletes.
7:30 AM – Elite Women Start
- The world’s top female athletes begin their journey through Chicago’s scenic streets.
7:45 AM – Elite Men and Wave 1 Start
- The main pack of professional and sub-elite runners hit the road.
8:00–8:35 AM – Wave 2 & Wave 3 Start
- Recreational and charity runners begin their race.
9:00 AM – Final Wave Departures
- All runners should be on the course by this time.
10:30 AM – Top Finishers Arrive
- The fastest runners cross the finish line, often between 2:00 and 2:10 hours after starting.
2:00 PM – Finish Line Closes
- Runners have 6 hours and 30 minutes to complete the marathon.
🏃♂️ Course Overview: What Runners Can Expect
The Chicago Marathon course is known for being flat, scenic, and fast, making it perfect for both beginners and record-breakers.
- Distance: 26.2 miles (42.195 km)
- Course Type: Loop (starts and ends at Grant Park)
- Neighborhoods Covered: 29
- Hydration Stations: Every 1–2 miles (offering water, Gatorade, and energy gels)
Course Highlights
- Downtown Loop (Miles 1–3): Start amidst the skyscrapers and cheering crowds.
- North Side (Miles 4–10): Pass through Lincoln Park and Lakeview.
- West Loop (Miles 11–16): The heart of Chicago’s foodie scene and live music vibes.
- Pilsen & Chinatown (Miles 17–21): Experience Chicago’s cultural richness.
- South Loop & Finish (Miles 22–26): Push through the final stretch back to Grant Park.
🚦 Road Closures and Transportation Tips
If you’re driving or spectating, note that major downtown streets will be closed from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Key Tips:
- Use CTA Trains (Red, Blue, and Green lines) — they run early and avoid marathon traffic.
- Avoid Lake Shore Drive during the morning hours.
- Plan Parking in Advance: If you must drive, pre-book parking near Millennium Park or South Loop.
🏨 Where to Stay Near the Start Line
If you’re traveling to Chicago for the marathon, staying close to Grant Park will make your morning stress-free.
Recommended Hotels:
- Hilton Chicago – Official partner hotel, just steps from the start/finish area.
- Palmer House Hilton – Historic and elegant, perfect for families.
- Hyatt Regency Chicago – Ideal for business travelers and runners alike.
- Congress Plaza Hotel – Offers stunning views of the starting area.
👉 Pro Tip: Book your room at least 3–4 months in advance as hotels fill up quickly during marathon weekend.
🎯 Insider Tips for Race Day Success
1. Arrive Early
Reach Grant Park at least 90 minutes before your start time to pass security and settle into your corral.
2. Dress in Layers
October mornings can be chilly — wear disposable layers you can remove as you warm up.
3. Stay Hydrated
Sip water early and use every hydration station during the race.
4. Use the Official Marathon App
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon App helps you track your pace, splits, and even share your progress live with friends.
5. Meet at Designated Reunion Areas
After finishing, meet friends and family in the Reunion Area (Grant Park) under signs labeled A–Z.
🏅 Finish Line Experience
Crossing the finish line at Grant Park is an emotional and unforgettable moment. Runners receive:
- A finisher’s medal
- Refreshments and recovery food
- Access to the Runner Refresh Area
- A chance to celebrate at the post-race party with live music and food stalls.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What time does the Chicago Marathon start in 2025?
The marathon starts at 7:20 AM with wheelchair athletes, followed by elite women at 7:30 AM, elite men and Wave 1 at 7:45 AM, and the last wave around 8:35 AM.
Q2. What time should I arrive at the start line?
Plan to arrive between 5:30 and 6:30 AM to allow time for gear check, security, and warm-up.
Q3. Where is the start line located?
The start line is at Grant Park, Columbus Drive near Monroe Street, downtown Chicago.
Q4. Can spectators watch the start and finish?
Yes, both the start and finish areas have designated spectator zones. However, space fills up early, so arrive before 6:30 AM.
Q5. What if I miss my wave start time?
You may still start in a later wave, but you cannot move up to an earlier one.
Q6. How long does it take to finish the marathon?
The official course time limit is 6 hours and 30 minutes after the last runner crosses the start line.
Q7. How can I track runners during the marathon?
Download the Chicago Marathon Tracking App, available for Android and iOS. You can track by name or bib number.
Q8. What is the best viewing spot for spectators?
Popular cheering zones include Mile 3 (State Street), Mile 13 (Old Town), and Mile 25 (Michigan Avenue).
Q9. Does the marathon ever get delayed or canceled?
Very rarely. Only severe weather or emergency conditions can cause delays or cancellations.
Q10. What time do roads reopen after the race?
Most roads reopen gradually between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM after the last runner passes.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The Chicago Marathon is more than just a race — it’s a celebration of endurance, community, and determination. Knowing what time the Chicago Marathon starts, where to go, and how to plan your morning ensures you can focus on what truly matters: enjoying one of the most exhilarating experiences in the world of running.
Whether you’re running your first marathon or cheering from the sidelines, the early morning start in Grant Park is where thousands of dreams begin — and finish with pride, sweat, and unforgettable joy.