NYC Marathon Sets Sunday Viewing Plan Across Five Boroughs

The TCS New York City Marathon takes place this Sunday, drawing spectators to viewing spots across all five boroughs. Runners will pass through a route marking the 50th year of the five-borough course, though one late-race turn in the Bronx has been altered. Spectators planning to watch in person can choose from grandstands, standing areas, and street-level points along the course.

For those watching from home, WABC-7 carries coverage from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. ESPN2 broadcasts from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., with a Spanish-language option available on ESPN3. At the finish line, the East Side Grandstand runs along the final 200-meter stretch for $55, not including fees. Standing room is available in Central Park from Columbus Circle to the south grandstands, roughly 500 feet from the finish, and Columbus Circle also offers a view of the runners' final turn.

Along the course, spectators can watch runners come off the Verrazzano Bridge onto Fourth Avenue in Brooklyn, reachable by the B, D, N, Q, R, 2, 3, 4, and 5 trains. The Pulaski Bridge marks the halfway point; fans can gather on connecting streets in Long Island City and Brooklyn, served by the G and 7 trains. First Avenue in Manhattan, lined with bars and restaurants, is accessible via the 4/5/6 trains, and the Charity Cheer Zone sits at First Avenue and 120th Street, reached by the 6 train. East Harlem covers miles 18 through 20, also served by the 6 train.

A route change affects the Bronx segment. Runners on Alexander Avenue will turn left onto East 141st Street instead of East 138th Street, then turn left onto Third Avenue before reaching 138th Street. East 141st Street is now a viewing location. Other intersections from Brooklyn through Manhattan remain accessible to spectators watching the runners pass.