The Top 5 Marathon Venues In The USA & Canada

When it comes to marathons, the course is only part of the story. The best races combine scenery, crowd support, and atmosphere to create an unforgettable experience for runners and spectators alike. Whether you’re chasing a Boston qualifier, soaking in iconic landmarks, or just looking for a bucket-list race, these five venues in the USA and Canada stand out as world-class destinations for marathoners.

1) Big Sur International Marathon – California, USA

For sheer beauty, it’s hard to top Big Sur. This point-to-point race along California’s rugged Pacific Coast Highway offers sweeping ocean views, towering redwoods, and dramatic cliffs. It’s a challenging course with rolling hills and headwinds, but the scenery is so breathtaking that many runners find themselves slowing down just to take it all in.

2) Boston Marathon – Boston, Massachusetts, USA

No list of top marathon venues is complete without Boston. As the world’s oldest annual marathon, Boston is steeped in history and prestige. The energy from Hopkinton to Boylston Street is unmatched, with legendary stretches like Heartbreak Hill testing even the toughest runners. For many, it’s the ultimate badge of honor—not just to finish, but to qualify.

3) Vancouver Marathon – Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Often called one of the most beautiful urban marathons in North America, Vancouver’s course offers jaw-dropping scenery from start to finish. Runners enjoy mountain views, ocean breezes, and a tour of one of Canada’s most active, outdoorsy cities. The stretch along the seawall is particularly breathtaking, making Vancouver a must-do race for those who love nature as much as running.

4) Honolulu Marathon – Honolulu, Hawaii, USA

Looking for a marathon-meets-vacation? The Honolulu Marathon offers a tropical race experience like no other. With no time limit, it’s especially welcoming to first-time marathoners. The early-morning start leads runners past Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and coastal highways, with Hawaiian music and hula dancers adding a festive, island vibe to race day.

5) Toronto Waterfront Marathon – Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto’s premier marathon brings big-city energy to the Canadian running scene. With a course certified as a World Athletics Gold Label, it attracts elite fields while also welcoming thousands of everyday runners. The flat, fast course along Lake Ontario is perfect for records, while the support of Canada’s largest city makes it a celebration of sport, culture, and community.

What unites these races isn’t just their prestige or scenery. It’s the way they transform entire cities into celebrations of endurance and human spirit. From the roar of Boston's crowds to the calm beauty of Vancouver’s seawall, these marathons leave runners with memories that go far beyond the finish line. For anyone looking to experience the best of North American racing, these five venues should be at the top of your list.