Spring is in the air and it's time to sign up for an amazing race. The half marathon is the perfect distance for anyone looking to get back after taking the winter off. Or if you've been training during the cold snap, these events will give you the chance to show off your fitness.
We picked just a few of our faves in the Eastern part of the country. Why not run 13.1 miles along the coast, through a war reenactment, or even in two countries in one day? These races are just what you're looking for.
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Awesome Spring Half Marathons in the Northeast
Written by
ACTIVE.com
Savin Rock Half Marathon
March 24, 2018 -- West Haven, CT
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This annual half marathon sells out every year according to race organizers, who no longer even list race day registration as an option. The course is a beautiful one, following Long Island Sound much of the way, giving you a great view of the water. Family members can track runners' stats on Facebook and Twitter, and all participants receive a gender-specific tech shirt and goodie bags.
AmeriHealth New Jersey April Fools Half Marathon
April 15, 2018 -- Atlantic City, NJ
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This race might be celebrating April Fool's Day, but it's certainly no joke. Run along the Atlantic for 13.1 miles through sleepy beach towns with ocean views the whole way. There are, of course, a few miles on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. A costume contest and post-race party on the beach keeps the fun going long after you cross the finish line.
Petersburg Half Marathon
April 21, 2018 -- Petersburg, VA
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Nothing says history like racing through a war scene reenactment. Yes, we're serious. That's what happens as you run through Petersburg National Battlefield. History buffs will delight in a race that runs you back in time through the Revolutionary and Civil War. The course is designed specifically to show off the quaint city streets of historic Petersburg.
Babcock Gristmill Grinder
April 21, 2018 -- Clifftop, WV
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This popular run takes you through the best of West Virginia scenery, including rhododendron tunnels, waterfalls, cliffs and bridges—all set against unforgettable spring colors. Much of the course is on trails in Babcock State Park, so be ready to get dirty. The race only has limited slots, usually sells out and is a DEAL at 50 bucks, so be sure to register early.
2018 River Valley Run Trail Half Marathon
April 21, 2018 -- Manchester, MD
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What's more fun than running 13.1 miles? Running 13.1 miles on the trail! The River Valley Run's trail half marathon will take you through the Prettyboy Watershed, along the edge of Hemlock Gorge and through the hills and valleys of River Valley Ranch. The views aren't the only high-quality thing you'll get from this race--runners also receive a branded Under Armour quarter-zip pullover as part of their registration fees. Plus, it's a certified "Green Event," which means its 100 percent paper free and environmentally conscious.
MudHen Half Marathon
April 29, 2018 -- Wildwood, NJ
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Set alongside the shores of the Wildwoods, this fast course takes runners from beach views to the fun and games of the boardwalk. Runners receive a race shirt, an IPA from MudHen Brewing Co. and a wild after party. Plus, you can add on a 5K or 8K because, well, why not?
The Marine Corps Historic Half
May 20, 2018 -- Fredericksburg, VA
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The Marine Corps Historic Half is situated halfway between the capital of the Commonwealth and the nation's capital. The 13.1 mile course features colonial sites, a quaint downtown and the challenge of Hospital Hill.
Bay of Fundy International Half Marathon
June 24, 2018 -- Lubec, ME
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Ever run in two countries on the same day? Starting in New Brunswick, Canada, the course winds across the U.S.-Canada border into Lubec, Maine. You'll run alongside the Bay of Fundy, which offers cool breezes making this June race feel an awful lot like early spring. Local artists handcraft all awards, so you'll earn a trophy that differs from the traditional hardware you usually receive. You must have a valid passport in order to run this race.