NYC Marathon, 2021

November 7, 2021, is the return of the New York City Marathon. This year will be the 50th race of the TCS New York City Marathon. It is not only the largest marathon world-wide but it’s also a lot of fun to watch. If you happen to be in New York for the big event, you’re in luck!

The TCS New York City Marathon started as a small race in Central Park in 1970 with a mere 55 finishers. By 2019 there were over 53,000 finishers! The average finish time was only 4 hours, 35 minutes, and 52 seconds, down from the year before by a few minutes. The race is organized by New York Road Runners whose mission is to help and inspire people through running.

The 26.2-mile course winds its way through all five New York boroughs where runners will be cheered on by over a million spectators! This year is unique and the marathon planners have health and safety recommendations to help keep everyone healthy. TCS New York City Marathon has a mobile app that you can use to follow a specific runner, map the course and more— they’ve thought of everything!

The race starts at 9:00am EST and participants are staggered in different heats from thereon.

For those who love the action and race buzz, there’s nothing like cheering for runners during the marathon. You can see a map of the race route here. Pick a spot and cheer on the runners before heading out to brunch!

The race will start on Staten Island, from there the course will go across the

Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge through Brooklyn and then into Queens before entering Manhattan. Runners will then head to the Bronx, then back down into Manhattan and enter Central Park for a grand finish at the 26.2 mile mark.

For optimal viewing on race day in Manhattan, try First Avenue and 59th Street. This has traditionally provided a dramatic backdrop as runners descend the Queensborough Bridge ramp at the 16 mile mark.

Another great option with a bit more space is on First Avenue spanning between 65th and 96th Streets.

Wherever you choose to cheer, from the comfort of a seat at brunch or the streets, dress appropriately for weather, stay hydrated and bask in the electric, city-wide energy that is the TCS New York City Marathon! For comprehensive details including volunteering opportunities, see the Marathon website.

The Lombardy Hotel’s timeless elegance is iconic to Midtown Manhattan. Not only are our rooms spacious, comfortable and thoughtfully designed to make you feel at home. We look forward to hosting you on your next visit to New York City.

*Due to Covid-19 our restaurant, cafe and gym will remain closed for a time.