r/bostonmarathon

Running Boston for the first time in 2027! Arriving Friday and leaving Tuesday, staying in Back Bay.

Planning to hit the expo, catch a Red Sox game, explore the city, and find some good restaurants.

Looking for recommendations on race-day logistics, course strategy, shakeout runs, restaurants, must-see spots, and anything to avoid.

For those who’ve run Boston before, what are your biggest tips or lessons learned? Anything you’d do differently? Good experiences you would do again?

Appreciate any advice!

Is anyone finding hotels for 2027? the marathon tours site has very few options and all the hotels seemed booked. Any advice ?

How do you guys mentally prepare for a competitive race/Boston qualifier. During my last BQ attempt my training went great. Felt great all the way through but the week leading up to race day I was emotionally/psychologically wrecked. Doubts. Nerves. Emotional roller coaster. Songs on the radio were bringing tears to my eyes if I had them on a running playlist. I was almost in tears at the start line. Missed my BQ by 2 minutes. I think a lot of it was it was my first well prepared, serious attempt at a BQ. I wasn’t SURE I was capable despite my half marathon and training paces all pointing to it. Now after 3 close calls I KNOW I can do it but I just need to perform on race day. I’ve won or placed in my age category in every half I’ve ran this year and finished on the podium in one (3rd place overall). I know a BQ is there. How do I stop the nerves and pre race doubts from derailing my BQ. There are candid photos of me at the start line from my last marathon and I look absolutely haunted. Any/all suggestions welcome. Going for a BQ on the 18th in the Baystate Marathon in Lowell, MA. Need sub 3:15 for a BQ, realistically 3:07 to make any cut offs.