If you're looking for a half marathon to run this year, your search may be over. These races offer options for both beginners and seasoned runners alike, all across the country.
Midwest
We know where the most people are running--and that's in middle America. So here's to a great road race season for those of us logging quiet miles along a country road. These hand-picked half marathons offer a mix of urban and scenic courses--all in America's heartland.
Hoosier Half Marathon
April 18, 2020 in Bloomington, Indiana
The Hoosier Half starts off at Indiana University's Bloomington campus, regularly voted one of the most beautiful in the country. Though the campus is mostly flat, the race features challenging hills in the outlying neighborhoods and has a time limit of 16 minutes per mile. All runners receive a finisher's medal and are encouraged to explore the charming college town post-race.
Naperville Women's Half Marathon
April 19, 2020 in Naperville, Illinois
The City of Naperville will play host to the newest community event for female runners of all ability levels with the Naperville Women's Half Marathon and 5K. This unique format, offered to women only, will again turn the streets of Naperville into a show of force as the fitness movement continues to expand because of their involvement.
Oshkosh Half Marathon
April 26, 2020 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin
The Oshkosh Half features some course diversity, with part of the race taking place downtown and other parts by the river. Proceeds from the event benefit local charities, including the Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh, Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Service and the Oshkosh Area Humane Society.
Lake Region Run
June 6, 2020 in Fergus Falls, Minnesota
If you're a runner and you haven't been to Minnesota, you're missing out. Why not visit the land of lakes to check out the Lake Region Run half marathon? You'll be delighted by the beauty of the Fergus Falls area and the ideal temperatures in early June. Don't be scared off by the challenging hills of the half marathon course--they are well worth climbing.
Heartland Series
Various Dates and Locations
The Heartland series, put on by Mainly Marathons, features runs in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin. The Fulton race features an out-and-back course that runners loop eight times, with scenic parts along the east bank of the Mississippi River. Not overly competitive? This race is perfect for you as it has no time limits.
Northeast
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.
Shoreline Sharks Half Marathon
March 28, 2020 in West Haven, Connecticut
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.
Petersburg Half Marathon
April 18, 2020 in Petersburg, Virginia
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 18, 2020 in Clifftop, West Virginia
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.
Bay of Fundy International Half Marathon
June 28, 2020 in Lubec, Maine
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.