However, the marathon distance of 26.2 miles ensures there will be room for all. If you plan accordingly, allow yourself proper time, and expect to encounter a few delays, you can easily obtain a front row view of the race leaders. Below are a few suggested locations and strategies to help you plan your viewing day. Epitomizing the rustic charm of a picture-postcard, New England town, Hopkinton provides a wonderful atmosphere for the start of the race. The starting field is staged alongside the town common, which is transformed into a veritable carnival of vendors and media members.
Visitors are welcome to enjoy the excitement and refreshments in the hours prior to the noon start.
In the final pre-race minutes, elite runners will warm up in this area in full view of the lucky spectators. Through the early miles, spectators will congregate in the town centers of Ashland, Framingham, Natick and Wellesley. Early-arriving fans will have ample time to enjoy a meal and locate a viewing spot prior to the arrival of the lead participants. Late arriving spectators can find viewing locations by taking a short walk away from the town center. Ambitious spectators may be able to watch the leaders, before they board the train for Boston to catch the finish of the race.