Chicago Marathon 2025: Street Closures, Start Times, and 2026 Registration

In-Depth Analysis

### Street Closures and Transportation The Chicago Marathon causes significant street closures throughout the city. Closures begin as early as 4 a.m. on race day, affecting major roads in downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. Key closures include:

• Columbus Drive (various sections)
• Jackson Drive
• Balbo Drive
• Roosevelt Road

**Tip:** Use public transportation to navigate the city during the marathon. The Loop streets will generally be open by 9 a.m., but public transit is still recommended.

### Race Day Schedule - **Abbott Chicago 5K:** Saturday at 7:30 a.m. in Grant Park. - **Marathon Start Times (Sunday):** - Men’s professional wheelchair race: 7:20 a.m. - Women’s professional wheelchair race: 7:21 a.m. - Handcycle start: 7:23 a.m. - Men’s and women’s professional start: 7:30 a.m. - Wave 1 start: 7:35 a.m. - Wave 2 start: 8:00 a.m. - Wave 3 start: 8:35 a.m.

### 2026 Race Registration - **Chicago Marathon:** Applications accepted Oct. 21 - Nov. 18. Entry costs $250 (U.S. residents) or $260 (non-U.S. residents). - **Guaranteed Entry:** Available for time qualifiers, legacy finishers, canceled 2025 entries, charity participants, tour operator participants, and those who completed the 2025 Distance Series. - **Non-Guaranteed Entry:** Apply for a non-guaranteed entry drawing; results announced Dec. 11. - **Chicago 13.1:** Register by Oct. 21 for a special $110 entry fee (increases to $120 after). The race is scheduled for June 7, 2026. - **Shamrock Shuffle:** Sign up by Oct. 21 for a special $51 entry fee (increases to $56 after). The 8K run takes place on March 22, 2026.

### Marathon Course The 26.2-mile course starts in Grant Park and winds through 29 Chicago neighborhoods, including:

• The Loop
• Streeterville
• Lincoln Park
• Wrigleyville
• Pilsen
• Chinatown
• Bronzeville

The course is known for being flat and fast, but runners should be prepared for potential slippery footing and the small incline at “Mount Roosevelt” near the finish.

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FAQ

Takeaways

• Plan your travel in advance, considering street closures and public transportation options.
• If you're running, arrive early to your assigned corral.
• Consider participating in the Chicago Distance Series for guaranteed entry into future marathons.
• Registration for the 2026 Chicago Marathon opens October 21, so mark your calendar!

Discussion

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Sources

Disclaimer

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