Head to the Windy City this October for the USA’s most exciting marathon
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is an annual rite of fall in the Midwest. An estimated one million spectators will take to the streets of Chicago to watch the race on October 13, 2024. It’s one of the six World Major Marathons, joining Boston and New York among the most prestigious marathons in the world.
Chicago is one of the most popular destinations for customers of Global Air Charters. We routinely charter flights here from Minneapolis, New York, and Las Vegas. Our longstanding relationships with Chicago’s satellite airports will ensure an easy arrival and quick transfer to your other accommodations.
Contact our flight coordinators to reserve your airframe to Chicago this October. Here’s how we suggest seeing the Chicago Marathon and all the best the city has to offer.
Choose Your Arrival
Chicago has several airports so our clients can precisely tailor their arrival strategy. Chicago Executive Airport (KPWK) in the northern suburb of Wheeling is a popular choice. About 25 miles from downtown, this airport specializes in private and corporate aviation. It offers a quiet and efficient arrival, with excellent amenities and a seamless connection to ground transportation.
If you’re staying on the south side of Chicago, you might choose Midway International Airport (KMDW) instead.
The Chicago Marathon Route: A Tour of the Windy City
The Chicago Marathon charts a grand tour of one of America’s most iconic cities. The race is known for being remarkably flat, making it one of the fastest major marathons in the world. Elite runners often set their personal best times on this course.
The race begins and ends in Grant Park, taking runners on a 26.2-mile journey through 29 neighborhoods. Participants begin by trekking north up to Wrigleyville, before heading back down into the Loop and west over the river.
From there, the route veers through some of Chicago’s oldest neighborhoods on its way to Bronzeville on the south side, and then it’s two miles straight up Michigan Avenue to the finish back in the center of town.
Top Spots for Spectators
Lincoln Park (Miles 5–6)
Early in the route, runners will wind through the scenic green space and tree-lined boulevards of Lincoln Park. It’s a gorgeous place to relax on any autumn weekend. While you’re there, take a tour of the Lincoln Park Conservatory. Get a bird’s eye view of the race from The J. Parker, the rooftop lounge of the Hotel Lincoln.
The West Loop (Miles 13–14)
The halfway point of the marathon sends runners through Chicago’s trendiest neighborhood for dining and drinks. The race heads west down Adams Street, not far from the famous “restaurant row” on Randolph Street.
Check out Au Cheval for its famous cheeseburgers or Girl & The Goat for world-class small plates. Afterwards, head over to Lone Wolf Tavern, a neighborhood bar with excellent cocktails.
Pilsen (Miles 19–20)
This neighborhood on Chicago’s Lower West Side is rich in Latino culture. It is home to several buildings bedecked in murals and mosaics. Take your camera and discover miles of impressive street art, especially along 16th Street.
Join the energetic crowds here to give the racers a second wind and then head for tacos at Carnitas Uruapan or enchiladas at 5 Rabanitos.
While You’re in the Windy City
Marathon weekend is a perfect time to walk around Chicago. The air is crisp, and the running circuit will be buzzing with excitement. The Chicago Bears will be playing in London that Sunday, and you’ll find the game on every bar TV in town. But there’s plenty more happening in the city.
Sabrina Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet Tour rolls into Chicago on October 13th. The “Espresso” songstress will play to a packed house at the United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls. If you can’t get tickets, the city is known for its dozens of music venues with a diverse lineup of acts every weekend.
Chicago is also renowned for its comedy scene. Check out the offerings at The Lion Theater, Second City, or Zanies for a rollicking nightcap.
Chicago Marathon 2024
You’ve picked an excellent time to explore Chicago and Global Air Charters is ready to help in any way we can. Contact our flight coordinators today and we’ll start making all the arrangements for an exciting marathon weekend.
