The Chicago Marathon is known for its fast and flat course through one of the world's most magnificent cities. Elite athletes and amateurs alike annually target the race for its potential to generate personal, national and world records. In addition to its speed, the course offers a scenic tour of Chicago and its lively neighborhoods, as well as a convenient start and finish in beautiful Grant Park.
The Twin Cities Marathon is a very popular fall marathon choice and is annually one of the largest marathons in the U.S.
The course is a point-to-point course beginning near the Mall of America Field in downtown Minneapolis and finishing at the State Capitol in Saint Paul. The course route travels around four lakes and both sides of the Mississippi River. The course is mostly flat with some rolling hills along the way. However there are no significant climbs.