Top 12+ Run Races You Can Turn into a Vacation
How often have you seen “Let’s make a trip out of it!” pop up in the group chat? That’s because runners like nothing more than combining a race with a vacation. After all, destination races provide the perfect opportunity to broaden your horizons by exploring the world on foot.
To help create your next race-cation itinerary, we’ve compiled a list of 12 running races you can turn into a vacation. These are races where you can explore a tropical rainforest, sample wine from a Bordeaux vineyard, see the cherry blossoms bloom, and enjoy a post-race lobster roll.
So go ahead—turn that “Let’s make a trip of it” text into miles, memories, and vacation bliss.
Section dividerRaces in the Northern U.S.
1. Mount Desert Island Marathon – Bar Harbor, Maine – Oct. 19, 2025
The Mount Desert Island Marathon, Half, and Relay is one of the most scenic destination races in the country. The course is quintessential Maine, complete with peaceful lakes, mountain views, and pristine terrain that harken back to a simpler time. On this award-winning route, runners will pass through sleepy Maine villages, see Somes Sound (the only fjord on the Eastern Seaboard), and enjoy the stunning fall foliage of Acadia National Park.
The marathon and relay start in the quaint, nautical town of Bar Harbor while the half marathon begins in nearby Northeast Harbor. All races finish in the maritime community of Southwest Harbor.
After the race, enjoy more maritime views aboard a whale-watching tour where you can spot humpback whales, ocean sunfish, seals, and puffins. Or head to Acadia National Park and hike Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard. And don’t forget to enjoy a lobster roll or blueberry pie to celebrate all your hard work!
Section divider2. Niagara Falls International Marathon – Niagara Falls, Ontario – Oct. 26, 2025
This is your chance to “Run the Roar” along Horseshoe Falls on a route entirely within Canada. Since 1974, this event has drawn runners from across the globe to run at one of the world’s most beloved landmarks. In 2024, 3,065 finishers from 11 different countries made the trek around Niagara Falls.
In addition to the marathon, there’s also a half marathon, 10K, and 5K. When you’ve finished the race, you can explore both sides of the border—the U.S. side with Cave of the Winds Mountain Park and Maid of the Mist, or the Canadian side with Clifton Hill. You can walk, bike, or drive across the Rainbow Bridge, which connects the two cities of Niagara Falls. Be sure to bring your passport!
For a peaceful retreat, sample local wines in Niagara-on-the-Lake or visit Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens to view over 80,000 plants as well as the rose gardens and Butterfly Conservatory.
Section dividerRaces in the Eastern U.S.
3. Cherry Blossom 10-Miler – Washington, D.C. – April 11-12, 2026
This off-distance race takes place in the heart of Washington, D.C., during peak cherry blossom season. Race weekend includes the traditional 10-mile run as well as a 5K run-walk, the Double Blossom, and a kids run that serves as a fundraiser for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. This event is so popular that entry for the 10-Miler and Double Blossom is determined by lottery.
Keep an eye out for “Stumpy,” the official mascot of the race. He’s an inflatable version of the famous tree that survived countless floods in the Tidal Basin until he sadly had to be removed for environmental rehabilitation work. But cuttings were taken from Stumpy, so his progeny will live on!
While in D.C., you can visit iconic monuments on the National Mall, like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, or stop by other historic landmarks, such as Arlington National Cemetery, the White House, and the U.S. Capitol Building. Art lovers and history buffs won’t want to miss the Smithsonian Museums, the National Gallery of Art, and the Library of Congress.
Section divider4. Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival – Schroon Lake, New York – Sept. 27-28, 2025
At the Adirondack Marathon in Schroon Lake, New York, the top three male and female finishers receive a hand-carved wooden bear. (Photo: Courtesy Adirondack Marathon)
Schroon Lake is the site of the Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival, which features a marathon, half marathon, and marathon relay. There’s also a 5K and 10K in Chestertown. The distance races weave around stunning Schroon Lake on paved roadways with a varied course that ranges from flat to rolling with a few short, steep hills as you head to the finish at Schroon Public Beach.
If you’re lucky enough to be one of the top three male or female finishers, you receive a hand-carved wooden Adirondack bear. All runners can take advantage of the “Pace Bears” on course to meet your marathon goals, ranging from 3:30-5:30 finish times.
Late September is the perfect time to visit the Adirondacks to view peak fall foliage with vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves. With over 6 million acres, 2,000 scenic trails, and 3,000 lakes, Adirondack National Park is the place to visit post-race. Visit High Falls Gorge to explore four different waterfalls, or hike to the summit of one of 46 Adirondack High Peaks (like Whiteface, Algonquin, or Iroquois) for spectacular panoramic views.
Section dividerRaces in the Southern U.S.
5. Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – Orlando, Florida – Jan. 7-11, 2026
If you’re looking for a vacation destination, why not take a trip to the most magical place on Earth? Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend consists of five days of running fun with themed races, character encounters, and all the magic that comes along with Mickey Mouse and friends.
The 2026 race is themed to different storybook genres. You can run a sci-fi 5K with Pluto, a mysterious 10K with Chip ‘n’ Dale, a romantic half marathon with Donald and Daisy, or a fantasy-filled marathon with Mickey and Minnie. If you’re a real nut, try the Dopey Challenge, which includes running all four races.
When you cross the finish line, keep the fun going by exploring one of the many parks. Visit Cinderella’s castle in Magic Kingdom, go on a safari in Animal Kingdom, meet the Guardians of the Galaxy at Epcot, and ride the Tower of Terror in Hollywood Studios. Bring the whole family to Orlando and take advantage of nearby attractions like Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and SeaWorld.
Section divider6. Asheville Marathon and Half – Asheville, North Carolina – March 21, 2026
(Photo: New Belgium Asheville Marathon & Half | iDaph Events)
Asheville has been through its fair share of turmoil after Hurricane Helene. But this part of the Blue Ridge Mountains is known for not only its natural beauty, but also for its rugged tenacity and perseverance. The Asheville Marathon and Half Marathon helps bring back excitement and a much-needed economic boost to the area, and visitors are welcome!
The course winds its way through beautiful Asheville neighborhoods like Omni Grove Park, Broadway, Montford, and Riverside on the way to the finish line in New Belgium Brewing. As runners pass through city streets, you will see evidence of Asheville’s vibrant arts scene with murals and Art Deco architecture.
After the race, visit nearby 19th-century Biltmore Estate for a tour of the 8,000-acre grounds and impressive gardens. Adventure seekers can head into Pisgah National Forest or Nantahala National Forest for hiking, camping, or a zip-line tour.
Section dividerRaces in the Western U.S.
7. Lake Tahoe Marathon Festival – South Lake Tahoe, California – Oct. 17-19, 2025
The Lake Tahoe Marathon Festival is three days of running fun set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Tahoe. On Friday, choose from the Lakeside Marathon or Nevada Half Marathon. On Saturday, you can run the Cal-Neva Marathon, Incline Half Marathon, or 72-mile Midnight Express. On Sunday, choose from the Lake Tahoe Marathon, four-person marathon relay, Emerald Bay Half Marathon, Tahoe 10K, Superhero 5K, or Kids Pumpkin Run. If your sanity is questionable, you can try the Tahoe Triple: three marathons in three days.
When your legs are tired after all that running, take the Nifty 50 Trolley that travels between West and South Lake to enjoy views of the vibrant blue lake set beneath snow-covered peaks. You can explore Emerald Bay State Park, take a paddleboard tour of the bay, or relax on Kings Beach. Top hiking trails with breathtaking views of the mountains include Rubicon Trail and Mount Rose Trail. For a relaxing trip, take the Heavenly Gondola for a 2.4-mile journey over Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range.
Section divider8. Kauai Marathon – Kauai, Hawaii – Aug. 31, 2025
(Photo: Jo Evans | Da Kine Images)
Head to the Garden Island for fun in the sun at the Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon, one of the most beautiful destination races in the world. Both races begin in Poipu at the southern end of the island. The course follows the coastline with scenic views of the beach, jagged cliffs, and lush rainforests. A highlight is running beneath the shade of the century-old “Tunnel of Trees.” Marathoners continue toward Lawai and climb to the top of Kalaheo for stunning views of the ocean.
After the race, you can explore the island with an ATV ride through the backcountry, horseback ride along the coast, or kayak down the tranquil Wailua River to ʻŌpaekaʻa Falls and Wailua Falls. Go snorkeling on Poʻipū Beach, hiking in Kōkeʻe State Park, or take a boat ride to Fern Grotto, a secluded location that was once off-limits to all but Hawaiian royalty.
Kauai is also home to Waimea Canyon, commonly known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” as well as the National Tropical Botanical Garden with the largest collection of native Hawaiian plants.
Section dividerInternational Races
9. Loch Ness Marathon – Scotland – Sept. 28, 2025
Take a trip across the pond to Scotland to explore the Highland capital of Inverness at the Loch Ness Marathon. Race distances include a marathon, 10K, 5K, and Wee Nessie kids run. The marathon course has been described as “breathtakingly beautiful” as it winds alongside the world-famous Loch Ness. Runners start on the high ground of a misty moor near Fort Augustus and follow the southeastern shores of Loch Ness before heading across the River Ness to Inverness. On the way, be sure to keep an eye out for Nessie!
Once you’ve enjoyed a celebratory pint, take a trip to Inverness Castle or visit the Clava Cairns. The River Ness is a great spot for a scenic walk across a suspension bridge to the Ness Islands, a tranquil park in the city. You can browse local vendors at the Victorian Market or enjoy a play at Eden Court Theatre.
Section divider10. Venice Marathon – Venice, Italy – Oct. 26, 2025
The Venice Marathon provides an incredible opportunity to run through one of the most romantic destinations in the world- the Floating City. The Venice Marathon includes a marathon, half marathon, and 10K, and has been held in Italy since 1986.
The course begins in Stra, a small country town at the beginning of Riviera del Brenta. With a unique start line in front of the Villa Pisani, a late-Baroque palace, runners embark on a course where “every step is a new sight and a new beauty.”
Runners pass by magnificent Venetian villas that overlook the river on their way to the historic city center of Mestre. Because Venice is composed of 118 islands built on a lagoon, runners will cross the Grand Canal on a floating bridge, as well as 14 other bridges in the final 3K. The course goes through the Piazza San Marco by the Campanile bell tower and the Doge’s Palace to the finish in Riva Sette Martiri.
For a relaxing post-race activity, enjoy a gondola ride through the canals, and refuel with a delicious frittella pastry and an espresso. Take a trip to St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, peruse the Rialto Market, and wander through the charming streets of the Cannaregio district. You can take a boat ride to the colorful island of Murano to learn about their rich glass-blowing tradition, or take a day trip to the Dolomites.
Section divider11. Marathon des Chateaux du Medoc – France – Sept. 6, 2025
The Marathon du Medoc is unlike most typical marathons. With a big emphasis on conviviality and fun, this event is more about the experience of running through France’s renowned wine region than about setting a PR. The route begins in Pauillac and winds through beautiful vineyards past over 50 chateaux.
Instead of just traditional water stops, this marathon has 23 wine-tasting stops, and some even offer local delicacies like cheese, ice cream, foie gras, and oysters. Many participants dress up to fit with the theme (2025 is La Mer, or “The Sea”), and there are musical breaks located on course with orchestras and bands.
Afterward, there’s a ball with music, dancing, and fireworks. Basically, the Marathon du Medoc is a giant party, on foot, through a beautiful region of France. It’s more about having a good time than running a good time.
The fun continues the day after the marathon with a recovery walk or “balade” through the vineyards of Saint Germain D’Esteuil followed by lunch at Chateau Castera.
Section divider12. Great Wall Marathon – Huangyaguan, China – May 16, 2026
The Great Wall Marathon offers runners the unique experience to run on one of the seven Wonders of the World. (Photo: Albatros Adventure Marathons)
How would you like to run on one of the world’s most famous landmarks? The Great Wall Marathon provides adventurous runners with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to run on the Huangyaguan section of the Great Wall near Tianjin, China. The event includes a marathon, half marathon, and 5.5-mile fun run.
The marathon course takes runners through local villages on paved roads, gravel paths, and trails on the way to the Great Wall and the final 5,164 stone steps up to the tower. Having the opportunity to traverse these ancient pathways and enjoy spectacular panoramic views makes this race unlike any other in the world.
After you conquer the Great Wall, you can tour Tiananmen Square or visit the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven. If your legs are tired, hop on a rickshaw tour of Beijing’s hutongs or visit the Ming Tombs.
Whether you prefer a relaxing vacation, or one filled with excitement and adventure, there’s something for everyone on this list of 12 run races you can turn into a vacation!
