{"id":12562,"date":"2025-03-21T12:41:34","date_gmt":"2025-03-21T12:41:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/?p=12562"},"modified":"2025-03-21T13:00:07","modified_gmt":"2025-03-21T13:00:07","slug":"chicago-marathon-parking-guide-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/tips\/chicago-marathon-parking-guide-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Chicago Marathon Parking Guide 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"670\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/03\/marathon-7111148_1280-670x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12579 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/03\/marathon-7111148_1280-670x1024.jpg 670w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/03\/marathon-7111148_1280-196x300.jpg 196w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/03\/marathon-7111148_1280-768x1173.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/03\/marathon-7111148_1280.jpg 838w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 670px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 670\/1024;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Chicago Marathon is one of the world\u2019s most prestigious races, drawing thousands of<br>runners and millions of spectators from across the globe every fall. With the excitement of race<br>day comes increased traffic and road closures, but <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/tips\/driving-in-illinois\/\">driving and parking in Chicago<\/a> can still be<br>manageable with the right planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re participating in the race or a spectator cheering on loved ones, strategizing<br>your route and parking options in advance will help ensure a smooth experience. This guide<br>covers everything you need to know \u2013 including the marathon\u2019s date, route, areas to avoid, and<br>the best parking options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Details About the Chicago Marathon<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Chicago Marathon usually takes place on the second Sunday of October, with this year\u2019s<br>race scheduled for October 12th, 2025. The race then kicks off in waves, starting around 7:20<br>a.m. for the first wave of runners and wheelchair athletes, with the final wave taking off around<br>8:35 a.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Spanning 29 neighborhoods, the marathon course begins in Grant Park, with runners passing<br>through some of the city\u2019s most recognizable neighborhoods such as Pilsen, Lincoln Park, and<br>Chinatown, with the race coming to a close back where it all started in Grant Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As one of the world\u2019s largest marathons, the event sees over 50,000 runners, over 12,000<br>volunteers, and over 1.5 million spectators lining the streets. With major road closures and<br>heavy foot and vehicle traffic, it\u2019s crucial to plan ahead \u2013 especially when it comes to parking<br>and transportation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Chicago Marathon Road Closures<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Chicago Marathon does bring widespread road closures and traffic restrictions across the city,<br>which may impact driving in the days leading up to, and day of, the big race. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most significant closures is Columbus Drive, which serves as both the start<br>and finish line on race day. Drivers should also expect full closures from Roosevelt Road to<br>Grand Avenue beginning in the early morning. LaSalle Street, Clark Street, and Michigan Avenue<br>will also experience some closures and restrictions throughout the course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, other notable closures include \u2013 but are not limited to &#8211; the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lake Shore Drive:<\/strong> Typically closed intermittently on race day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Jackson Boulevard &amp; Monroe Street:<\/strong> Key downtown access points closed off.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cermak Road &amp; Chinatown area:<\/strong> Girdlocked as runners pass through.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>35th Street &amp; South Side Roads:<\/strong> Major closures and restrictions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to these, there are numerous local streets across the 29 neighborhoods runners race through that will be inaccessible to vehicles on race day. Anyone planning on driving on race day should plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and consider parking outside of the city to avoid congestion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Park for the Chicago Marathon<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/03\/city-5440799_1280-1-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12578 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/03\/city-5440799_1280-1-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/03\/city-5440799_1280-1-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/03\/city-5440799_1280-1-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2025\/03\/city-5440799_1280-1.jpg 1280w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/681;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Finding parking on race day can be a challenge, but smart parking strategies can help you avoid<br>travel headaches. The best approach is to take steps to find a parking garage near key<br>locations if you want to be as close to the action as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Parking Garages Near Key Locations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For those wanting to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/tips\/parking-in-chicago\/\">park in Chicago<\/a> near Grant Park, downtown garages provide convenient<br>access points that can get you close to the race route. Consider parking in the following<br>garages and then walking to the action:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Millennium Garages (Grant Park): <\/strong>The closest option with multiple entry points at Millennium Park, North &amp; South Grant Park, and East Monroe.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Navy Pier Parking (Streeterville): <\/strong>A bit farther from the action, but CTA shuttle bus services are offered to help you reach the marathon course without having to deal with heavy congestion.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Loop Parking Garages:<\/strong> Various garages in downtown Chicago provide good alternatives, but be prepared for a longer walk due to street closures.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Street Parking Rules and Regulations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Street parking is extremely limited before and on marathon day, with a multitude of streets<br>being shut down and temporary parking bans put in place. However, if you do want to attempt to park on the street, check the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicago.gov\/city\/en\/depts\/cdot\/provdrs\/street\/svcs\/stclosures.html\">Chicago Department of Transportation website<\/a> ahead of race<br>day for updated restrictions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Car Rental Options for Out of State Travelers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re traveling to Chicago for the marathon and need a rental car, the most convenient<br>options are at major airports and rental locations in the area:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/car-rental\/usa\/chicago\/chicago-airport\/\">Chicago O\u2019Hare Airport (ORD)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/car-rental\/usa\/chicago\/\">SIXT car rentals in Chicago<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Driving in Chicago on marathon day can be a unique experience, and with the right planning, it<br>can be a smooth and convenient way to navigate the city. Renting a car gives you flexibility and<br>control over your schedule \u2013 allowing you to arrive early, park in a strategic location, and avoid<br>the crowds. While some roads will be closed, planning your route ahead of time and using<br>alternative streets will help you avoid delays and enjoy the event stress-free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Tips for a Smooth Chicago Marathon Day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Navigating Chicago on marathon day requires careful planning \u2013 arrive early and expect heavy<br>traffic and road closures throughout the city. If driving, always have a backup parking option, as<br>garages tend to fill up quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/tips\/marathon-checklist-essential-gear-and-tips-for-race-day\/\">Explore our marathon checklist to make sure you have everything you need for race day.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re arriving from out-of-state or need a reliable ride to get around, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/car-rental\/usa\/\">SIXT rental cars<\/a><br>offer convenient locations across Chicago and major airports so you can focus on enjoying the<br>excitement of the marathon weekend!<\/p>\n<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on the_content --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on the_content -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Chicago Marathon is one of the world\u2019s most prestigious races, drawing thousands ofrunners and millions of spectators from across the globe every fall. With the excitement of raceday comes increased traffic and road closures, but driving and parking in Chicago can still bemanageable with the right planning. Whether you\u2019re participating in the race or&#8230;<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":81,"featured_media":12579,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-12562","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-tips","8":"entry"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.1.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Chicago Marathon Parking Guide 2025: Best Spots &amp; 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