Thinking about running a half marathon in Massachusetts? There are plenty of beautiful, fun to run options across the state. Don’t miss out on these half marathons which are consistently rated the best by those who have run them.
New Bedford Half Marathon
The New Bedford Half Marathon, hosted by “The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick,” is an early spring half marathon of a nice size without about 5,000 participants. It is a top-25 rated half marathon by Runner’s World magazine. The most difficult part of this race is bearing with the March weather, which can be temperamental and cold. Thankfully, the first 4000 participants receive long sleeved shirts!
The Course
According to the official website, the course “is a fast certified half-marathon loop with two major hills.” The first 2 miles are pretty flat, and the largest hills are located at miles 3 and 12. The race includes gorgeous views of the harbor waterfront for the first portion, followed by sights within the city.
Image Source: HalfMarathons.net
Reviews
“Great race in an adorable town!! Everything was well organized and the people who worked the race were so friendly and helpful. Beautiful view of the harbor along the path and lots of fans were cheering throughout the half marathon! It really seemed like the whole town came together to support the marathoners.” – Julie B., Yelp Review
“The finish was surprisingly big for such a small event. It was nice to hear my name as I crossed the finish line. I did not attend the “after party” but you they had roped off a nice little area where they were serving clam chowder and beer.” – Reba, Notsoperfectlife.com Review
Boston’s Run to Remember
Boston’s “Run To Remember” Half Marathon honors all first responders who have been killed in the line of duty, and helps give back to the city through programs sponsored by the Boston Police Runner’s Club, such as Boys & Girls clubs. Over 9,000 runners participated in last year’s event. Participants also have the option to run a 5-mile. View the official site here.
The Course
Beginning and ending at Boston’s Seaport World Trade Center, this paved half marathon course gives runners a historic tour of the downtown area. During the run, you’ll get to see Boston University, Fenway Park, and the Boston city skyline.
Image Source: BostonsRunToRemember.com
Reviews
“This was a well organized race and a beautiful course. Water every two miles (except mile 10) and gu at mile 8. If not for the humidity, I would have been able to keep up a much faster pace. Mostly flat with some hills and great course support. I highly recommend it!” -Bettyshred, Half2run.me Review
“Excellent race! I think the prettiest one yet. The route is a wonderful tour through Boston history and along the Charles River. This year’s weather was PERFECT; wall-to-wall sunshine. The volunteers were incredibly helpful.” -Kittiekinz, Half2run.me Review
“Overall a great run! The course is beautiful and I had a wonderful time running the streets of Boston!” -Sharon, Run-Hike-Play.com Review
Wicked Half Marathon: Salem
Located in historic Salem, Massachusetts, the Wicked Half Marathon is a smaller race with about 1,000 runners and a 2,000 runner limit. The race usually happens in September and is praised for accommodating all runner speeds. Read more on the official race website.
The Course
Set on the coast of Massachusetts Bay, this is a scenic and mostly gentle course with views of the bay. There are some slight rolling hills throughout the course, but nothing major. This course is a moderately easy race that will be challenging to some.
Image Source: Official Race Page
Reviews
“Fantastic race, great route, and a challenge with the hills! This race was very well organized with good communication beforehand! As a slower runner, we ran with the early start group and I was so happy this was an option!!! Thanks to all the volunteers and event organizers, we will be back next year!” -Echo, Facebook Review
“The course itself was very scenic and flat overall. My favorite part was in Marblehead near the ocean and in the nice neighborhood. I loved the out and back sections so I could see other participants, and I have to say that many of them were incredibly friendly and encouraging to use walking/jogging. I’ve completed over 200 races and can be pretty picky but I honestly can’t think of many improvements for the Wicked Half Marathon.” -AB, Official race site review
BAA Half Marathon: Boston
With over 5,000 race finishers, the Boston Athletic Association’s Half Marathon is quite a popular race now that it’s in its second decade. Its beautiful sights and paved city setting make it a popular choice for many half marathoners. This race is held in October. This half marathon usually sells out within hours of registration opening, so be prepared to sign up early in the year if you’re interested.
The Course
This is a paved, city course that runs through a number of areas in Boston, taking participants along the city’s “Emerald Necklace” line of gorgeous parks. The paved course features loop with a number of nice rolling hills, making for a fun and challenging run.
Source: HalfMarathons.net
Reviews
“Challenging, rolling hills course along a beautiful parkway/lakes, nice neighborhoods and the zoo. Primarily out and back. Well organized, and the BAA kept us well informed at all stages. “ -LauraD, Half2run.me Review
“This was an awesome race put on my an awesome group of people. Nice weather, nice course, great shirts and metals. Need I say more!!” -Dkober, Half2run.me Review
Cape Cod Half Marathon
Not to be confused with the Cape Cod Trail Race half marathon, the Cape Cod Half Marathon includes a half marathon and full marathon that also made our Best Massachusetts Marathons list. Starting on Main Street in Falmouth, this is said to be one of the most scenic courses in the country according to Runner’s World. This is because it has views of both the Nantucket Sound and Martha’s Vineyard! This year the race has a limit of 1,700 entrants.
The Course
The official website calls this a “fast and scenic route,” hugging the coast of Nantucket Sound. There is only one major hill that is crossed towards both the beginning and end, so pace yourself!
Source: HalfMarathons.net
Reviews
“Very enjoyable and scenic “out and back” run along the Atlantic coast and through New England fall foliage. Relatively flat course allowed me to run my second fastest time ever. Town of Falmouth knows how to put on a great race – well organized event, friendly people, delicious cranberry bread and other goodies at the finish.” -Brady12, Half2run.me Review
“This is the race if you’re looking for a flat and fast HM course. Great views along the ocean and overall great running weekend.Great volunteers and some spots of good crowd support.” -Andrew, Facebook Review
Baystate Half Marathon
This marathon is run in October and is another event that includes both a half and full marathon. View the full website here. This is a great half marathon for less seasoned runners to use as preparation for longer or more intense races.
The Course
Depending on the course chosen for that year, this is said to be a mostly flat run with some rolling hills. Starting in downtown Lowell, it then complete two loops along the Merrimack River.
Source: ViewTheRace.com
Reviews
“Ran this as my first half marathon. Great spectators and volunteers and great use of the most scenic parts of an average suburb. Finish food was refreshing and plentiful.” -S.S., Marathonguide.com Review
“This race is terrific! The course is easy: out and back with one loop – you always know where you are and how far you have yet to go. Plus, although mostly flat, some rolling hills help to break a routine by working different muscles.“ -T.P., Marathonguide.com Review
Green Stride Newburyport Half Marathon
Self described as a “New England Fall-Time Classic”, this is a decently sized race with about 4,000 runners. This is another fall race that sells out so register while you can! Despite being a younger race, according to the official website, it has been voted both “Best Half Marathon” and “Best Post-Race Party” in the North Shore. All runners get pizza and beer, and everyone who finishes gets a medal. They also offer cash prizes to the top 5 male and female runners. See the official site here.
The Course
The course is a single loop that begins in Newburyport and carries you through a number of scenic areas, including the North Shore. You’ll get to see the beautiful rocky coastline and quaint city streets. The race starts and ends at Cashman Park, and is quite hilly throughout with the flattest portion taking up miles 7 through 12.
Source: Newburyport Half Marathon
Reviews
“The most fun I’ve had at a race for a long time! Beautiful course, very well organized, really great medal, t-shirts and beer glasses. Lots of added extra perks and after-party was awesome!! Cant wait for next year!” -Carmela, Facebook review
“Amazing event – so much fun! This was my first 1/2 and I am sure I will be back every year from here on out! Wouldn’t miss it! Thanks so much for everything! Very well organized!” -Josh, Facebook Review
“I recommend this as a great half to run — smooth course, beautiful scenery, and the runners and race promoters all seemed dedicated to having a FUN day!” -Emily, Facebook Review