United Airlines NYC Half Marathon
From Brooklyn to Manhattan, through Times Square and into Central Park.
New York City, New York
Mid-March
21.1 km
95 m
~25,000 athletes
Course Highlights
- Prospect Park start in Brooklyn
- Manhattan Bridge crossing with skyline views
- Times Square run-through
- Central Park's rolling roads
- Central Park finish
The Course
The NYC Half Marathon starts in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, winding through the park's rolling roads before heading north toward the Manhattan Bridge. Crossing the bridge provides stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, and the Lower Manhattan skyline. Runners enter Manhattan on the east side and head north through the streets.
The middle miles take runners through some of Manhattan's most iconic territory. The route passes through the canyons of Midtown and directly through Times Square, where the neon lights and massive screens create a surreal running experience unlike anything else in road racing. The energy in this section is extraordinary.
The final miles enter Central Park from the south, following the park's rolling interior roads past landmarks like the Bethesda Fountain and the Great Lawn. The finish line in Central Park brings the race to a satisfying close in one of the world's most famous urban green spaces. The rolling terrain of the park in the final miles provides a challenging finish.
History
The NYC Half Marathon was first held in 2006 as part of the New York Road Runners' portfolio of events. It quickly became one of the most sought-after half marathon entries in the world, with a lottery-based entry system. The race regularly sells out and attracts both elite and recreational runners.
The course has evolved over the years but has consistently featured the dramatic Brooklyn-to-Manhattan route that makes it one of the most scenic urban half marathons anywhere.
How to Train for NYC Half
Practice on rolling terrain
Both Prospect Park and Central Park have rolling hills that add up over the course. Do your long runs on undulating terrain so the constant ups and downs feel familiar. The Central Park hills in the final miles will test tired legs.
Dress for March weather
March in New York can range from near freezing to the 50s. Check the forecast and have multiple clothing options ready. Layers are key, and a light disposable top for the start is recommended.
Enter the lottery early
The NYC Half typically fills through a lottery. Enter as soon as registration opens and have a backup plan if you are not selected. Qualifying times and charity entries provide alternative paths.
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